This 32,187 square mile game reserve is still inhabited by groups of Bushmen and for this reason it is closed to the general public. Apart from occasional tours, only bona fide scientists are allowed access, making the Kalahari quite a secluded place. The Kahalari is not a true desert. It has relatively low rainfall but is quite densely covered with vegetation, and shrubs and trees occur in great variety. The Kalahari gives you the true feeling of Africa with vast open spaces and beautiful clear nights, ideal for star-gazing. The animals have adapted to the lack of water; there are numerous unique desert species here. It is a fascinating place, with experiences that you will not find anywhere else. The game reserve contains large herds of blue wildebeest, red hartebeest, eland, gemsbok and springbok, as well as lion, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, and both spotted and brown hyenas.