Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park is an amalgamation of the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park is the largest conservation area in Southern Africa (3,6 million hectares). 28 400km² of the park lies in Botswana and about 9 600km² in South Africa.
The Kgalagadi is an ideal self-drive safari destination. It is also malaria-free. Please note that well equipped 4×4’s are required to drive on a lot of the roads in the park. In addition, self-drive campers must comprise at least two vehicles.
The landscape is semi-desert vegetation, dotted with red sand dunes, sparse vegetation, and dry riverbeds. Making it a photographer’s delight. Wildlife is abundant, and the animals are attracted to waterholes along the otherwise dry riverbed.
What to expect from your safari
Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park is a haven for birding safaris, especially birds of prey. Over 170 species of birds have been recorded here. It is not uncommon to see over 30 bird species within a few kilometers of camp.
Predators are the area’s biggest attraction. These include the black-maned Kalahari lion, leopard, cheetah, brown and spotted hyena, jackal, and wildcat. The dry river beds and a multitude of waterholes show predators and antelopes off at a premium. This provides excellent photographic opportunities.
Due to its extremely remote location and harsh terrain the park gets relatively few visitors. For this reason, it is ideal for dedicated game viewers, bird watchers, photographic opportunities. And of course for guests seeking a desert and solitude feel.
When to travel to Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park
Safaris at Kgalagadi are great throughout the year. Generally speaking, the best time is probably at the end of the rainy season (from March to May).
Temperatures vary greatly; from -11˚C on very cold winter nights to +42˚C in the summer days. Summer is from November to April and is the hot, wet season. The rains usually fall during dramatic thunderstorms; often with strong winds and dust storms. The first rains transform the red dunes; covering them with fresh yellow flowers.
Contact us for your customized Kgalagadi trip now. Accommodation is limited and we haven’t listed any yet but have access to all so will design your safari around you.
More information on Botswana’s safari destinations and useful information:
