The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is synonymous with red rolling dunes, plenty of desert wildlife like Springbok, Gemsbok and the Kalahari lion and peace of mind found only through solitude. The three traditional camps, Twee Riviere, Mata Mata and Nossob are often a bit crowded to enjoy the true spirit of the Kalahari. Staying in one of the six wilderness camps might afford guests a glimpse of the tranquility and peace the desert offer. All the wilderness camps are unfenced and guests should be cautious and avoid moving around outside after dark even though a tourist attendant is on duty at all the camps.
Due to the high temperatures during the summer months, visitors should take into account that the wilderness camps do not have air-conditioning. The ceiling fans operate from solar power and would not last the whole day. The best time to visit these camps is during autumn and early spring when the temperatures are not extreme. During winter, the nights can get bitterly cold although the days are pleasant.
Bitterpan Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi Park
Bitterpan camp is the most well known of the wilderness camps in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and situated almost in the center of the park, also the most popular. Access to the Bitterpan wilderness camp is via a 4x4 only route where large 4x4 vehicles like unimogs and trailers are prohibited.
Guests check in at Nossob rest camp from where it is another two-and-a-half hour drive on a one-way 4x4 road to Bitterpan. From Bitterpan to Mata Mata is another nearly three- hour drive. Once at Bitterpan there are no notable roads to drive in order to search for wildlife.
Accommodation consists of reed cabins built on stilts with each cabin having a separate bathroom. Guests share a communal kitchen while solar panels provide light and a gas fridge keeps the drinks cool in the Kalahari heat.
Management does not allow children under the age of twelve to visit the Bitterpan camp and only eight guests at any time occupy the camp, thus preserving the tranquility of the surroundings. Guests must provide their own firewood and drinking water.
Gharagab Wilderness Camp in Northern Kgalagadi Park
Being the most northern wilderness camp in the Kgalagadi Park, Gharagab wilderness camp can only be accessed by 4x4 vehicles on a one-way circle route. Guests check in at the Nossob rest camp, which is about 164 kilometers and a four-hour drive away. Again, no heavy 4x4 vehicles or trailers are allowed on the road to Gharagab.
Accommodation at Gharagab consists of four two-bed log cabins each with a fully equipped kitchen and en suite ablutions. Solar panels provide light at night and gas fuels the stove, fridge and geyser. No children under the age of 12 may occupy the cabins. Guests must provide their own firewood and drinking water as the closest shop is at Nossob rest camp along a sandy off - road track.
Other wilderness camps include Grootkolk, Kalahari tented camp, Urikaruus and Kieliekrankie, which are all accessible by normal sedan vehicles.
Due to the popularity of these wilderness camps, visitors should reserve accommodation well in advance.
Yolande Pienaar - Yolande traveled extensively through Southern Africa and frequently visits places off the beaten track where she discovers gems to share ...
