Khama Rhino Sanctuary

The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is an 8,585-hectare community-based wildlife conservation area located in the Central District of Botswana. Situated approximately 25 kilometers outside the village of Serowe along the road to Orapa, the sanctuary encompasses a stretch of Kalahari sandveld terrain. At its heart lies the Serowe Pan, a large dry grass-covered depression surrounded by natural waterholes. The surrounding vegetation ranges from open grassy plains that support grazing herbivores to denser bushveld and acacia woodland preferred by browsing animals.Established in 1992, the sanctuary was conceived by the local community of Serowe under the leadership of Bangwato Paramount Chief Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama to protect Botswana's severely threatened rhinoceros population from extinction due to poaching. Managed as a community trust, the project aims to restore natural wildlife habitat while providing economic and educational benefits to local residents. The sanctuary has operated a highly successful breeding program, reintroducing white rhinos since 1992 and black rhinos since 2002. It serves as a vital breeding reservoir, supplying rhinos to replenish wild populations in major reserves such as Moremi, Makgadikgadi, and the Northern Tuli Game Reserve.In addition to black and white rhinos, the sanctuary supports over 30 mammal species—including giraffes, zebras, blue wildebeests, elands, gemsboks, springboks, leopards, caracals, and brown hyenas—along with more than 230 bird species. Visitors can explore the sanctuary via self-drive 4x4 routes or guided morning, afternoon, and night game drives led by local rangers. Other activities include guided rhino tracking and nature walks. Facilities on site include self-catering chalets, tented accommodation, campsites, an Environmental Education Centre, a restaurant, bar, swimming pools, and a curio shop.