Home to a diverse population of wildlife, Deception Valley's mature woodland entices more than just herbivores (including large herds of greater kudu, red hartebeest, springbok and eland), but also predators including caracal, Cape fox, lions and cheetahs.
The name ‘Deception’ stems from the dry surface of the pan that crafts a mirage, making it seem as though it is full of water - but only until you reach its edge, when this illusion stops. Occassionally some of the wildlife can be just as deceptive! But, despite its seeming hostility, wooded dunes and mature shrubs and trees line the valley and support wildlife all year round, even when the surface waters become non-existent. When the rains arrive, fresh verdant grass and thousands of animals appear on what was previously the hard, sun-baked earth of the Kalahari Desert.
Although Deception Valley also has a rich abundance of bird species ranging from lilac-breasted roller and red-headed finch to rock kestrel and Martial eagle, the wildlife spectacles are accentuated by the stunning landscape of golden grass, rolling mounds and sculpted trees.
Key info
- Ideal for viewing: cheetah, eland, Cape fox, springbok, lion
- Where: Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana
