Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

The Botswanan side of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park can be accessed from either the Twee Rivieren Gate in South Africa or the Mabausehube Gate in Botswana, which is about 115km north of Tshabong. There are several open camps along the Nossob River, which divides South Africa and Botswana. There are another four camps in the Mabausehube area, overlooking the pans. The road between the Nossob River and the Mabausehube camps in the West is a tough stretch of road with unrelenting dunes. It may be necessary to stop for a night at the camp halfway between the two, before proceeding to the pans. The area is only accessible by 4×4, and only with two or more vehicles. These are remote areas, and travelling can be tough in the African heat, especially on these roads.

Accommodation in Kgalagadi

Unlike South Africa, the Botswanan portion of the park supplies very basic camps with only a wooden structure for your tent and an open shower and toilet. The camps are unfenced, allowing wildlife to roam freely, making it a naturally African experience. It is advisable to set up your tent under the wooden structure, to keep your things organized, and not to wander too far from your vehicle. Your most frequent visitor in the camp will be the Black-Backed Jackal, who will wait to see if you leave anything for it to eat.

Wildlife in the Park

The Kgaladi is famous for its big cats, such as lions, leopards and cheetahs. It also hosts a variety of other animals, including Hyena, Gemsbok, Springbok, Blue Wildebeest, Red Hartebeest, and of course, the Black-backed Jackal. All of these animals are more adapted to the desert environment of the park, which is ideal for the many birds and reptile species found in the area.

Some important things to remember

1. Water is the most important thing to remember on your trip. You will need a minimum of 4-5 litres per person per day!
2. Extra Petrol. You need at least 100-160 Litres.
3. You will need to bring enough food to last you for the duration of your visit to the park, as there are no shops in the area.
4. You will need to take your own wood for fires
5. Do not forget toilet paper. It is not called “White Gold” in Africa for nothing!