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Chelkou Game Reserve

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Animal habitat
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Chelkou Game Reserve (South Sudan)

Weather…

Chelkou Game Reserve is located in Western Bahr el Ghazal State and is a key conservation area in western South Sudan. Spanning approximately 5,500 square kilometers, it is one of the larger reserves in the country. The landscape features a diverse mix of open grass savannas and dense gallery forests along the Chelkou River and its tributaries. The reserve was established to protect the habitats of various large mammals, including buffaloes, elephants, and multiple antelope species. Ecologically, it functions as a buffer zone and a migratory corridor between the dry northern regions and the more humid southern savannas. The area's remoteness has helped preserve some of its original flora and fauna despite years of conflict. Current challenges involve patrolling its vast borders and mitigating threats from illegal gold mining and poaching within the region's boundaries.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C273032333028262526272727
Rain mm018261151291652121578551

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The dry season from November to April is best for wildlife viewing as animals gather at waterholes. During the rainy season, they disperse across the vast savanna.
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Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are the most active times for wildlife. Most species rest in shade during the hot midday hours.
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Etiquette
Keep distance from all wildlife and never feed them. Leave your vehicle only in safe, designated areas.
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What to bring
A good pair of binoculars and a camera with telephoto lens are essential. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
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Getting there
Chelkou Game Reserve is in northern South Sudan, in the Northern Bahr el Ghazal region. Access is difficult; a 4x4 vehicle and local guides are necessary.
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What to expect
Animals are very shy and the savanna is vast - allocate several hours. Move slowly and avoid loud noises.

Geography

Coordinates
9.20000, 26.80000

Facts

  • The reserve spans a total area of approximately 5,500 square kilometers.
  • It is located in the western part of Western Bahr el Ghazal State.
  • The park was primarily founded to protect buffalo and elephant herds.
  • The Chelkou River flows through the reserve, nourishing the forests.
  • The area acts as an ecological bridge between northern and southern Sudan.
  • Illegal gold mining currently poses a significant threat to the ecosystem.

Explore nearby

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Tassili n'AjjerTassili n'Ajjer128 km · SExplore →
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RajaRaja145 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes Chelkou unique?
It hosts rare animal species that are hard to find in other regions.
Are there tour operators for Chelkou?
Only very specialized local operators offer expedition trips here.
What is the terrain like?
The terrain is varied with floodplains and dense grasslands.
What is the biggest danger?
The isolation and lack of medical infrastructure on-site.
Is camping permitted there?
Only with official permission and under the guidance of a guide.
Chelkou Game Reserve: where is it located?
Chelkou Game Reserve is located in South Sudan.
Chelkou Game Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Chelkou Game Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Chelkou Game Reserve is located in Western Bahr el Ghazal State and is a key conservation area in western South Sudan.
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Nearby cities

Aweil — Chelkou Game Reserve (South Sudan)
Aweil
Aweil is the capital of Northern Bahr el Ghazal and a significant hub for rice and grain trade.

History & landmarks

Aweil Stadium — Chelkou Game Reserve (South Sudan)
Aweil Stadium
The largest sports stadium in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, a pride of Aweil city.

More places

Aweil Rice Scheme — Chelkou Game Reserve (South Sudan)
Aweil Rice Scheme
One of the country's largest agricultural projects, utilizing the fertile plains for intensive rice cultivation.
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Aweil Rice Mill
The industrial mill processes rice produced in the large-scale Aweil Rice Project.