Today is devoted to self-drive game viewing in the vast Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. We recommend setting off early each morning as the camp gates open (05h30 to 06h00 depending on the season), to take advantage of the best game viewing conditions of the day.
Wildlife is plentiful in the red sand dunes and semi-desert of this vast game sanctuary, which is twice the size of the Kruger National Park. Of the many species of mammals and reptiles that have successfully adapted to the harsh desert conditions, the most famous is the black-maned Kalahari lion. Kgalagadi is also renowned for the magnificent oryx, cheetah and leopards - which are more easily seen in the sparse vegetation. You will see some of Africa’s most unusual animals in the Kalahari and many of the “great cats” – lion, cheetah and leopard – but the vegetation does not support elephants, rhino or buffalo.
You should see large herds of antelope including springbok, eland and blue wildebeest. You can also hope to see the brown and spotted hyena, black-backed jackals, curious meerkats, yellow mongoose, porcupines, honey badgers, bat-eared foxes, Cape foxes, African wild cats and many other interesting animals. Bird life is also prolific with over 260 species, including 20 different raptors.
You can spend the full day on the road, or return to your rest camp for breakfast and some relaxation, before setting out again in the late afternoon for another game drive.
Note: Vehicles are not allowed to drive off-road in any national park in South Africa.