The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a breathtaking expanse of arid beauty that showcases the rugged charm of the Kalahari Desert. Renowned for its captivating landscapes, this park offers remarkable birding opportunities, attracting birdwatchers from around the globe. With over 300 species recorded, from the striking African skimmer to the elusive secretary bird, the avian diversity here is simply astounding. Adding to the park's allure are the famous black-mane lions, symbols of strength and majesty that roam the vast savannahs. Watching these magnificent predators in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that draws many wildlife enthusiasts. Together, the stunning scenery and thriving wildlife create a magical atmosphere, making the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park a true paradise for nature lovers.
10-Day Kgalagadi Transfrontier Adventure
Start/End: Johannesburg
Travel Style: Self-drive 4x4 | Mix of camping & rustic wilderness camps
Focus: Wildlife, solitude, red dunes, predator sightings, remote wilderness
Day 1: Johannesburg → Kuruman / Hotazel (Transit Night)
Drive: ±8 hrs (620 km)
Highlights:
Break the long drive to the park
Stock up on fuel, last groceries and cash in Kuruman
Stay:
Hotel/lodge in Kuruman/Hotazel
Day 2: Kuruman → Twee Rivieren (Kgalagadi Entrance)
Drive: ±5 hrs (370 km)
Highlights:
Arrive early afternoon at Twee Rivieren (main gate, reception, and fuel stop)
Sunset drive along the Auob Riverbed
Visit the hide near the camp at night
Stay:
Camping
Day 3: Twee Rivieren → Nossob (via Upper Dune Road)
Drive: ±5 hrs game-viewing drive (±160 km)
Highlights:
Take the scenic Upper Dune Road for game spotting
Stop at waterholes: Dikbaardskolk, Cubitje Quap (good for raptors and lions)
Stay:
Camping
Day 4: Full Day at Nossob
Highlights:
Sunrise drive north to Polentswa or Kwang waterholes
Chill midday in camp; check out the underground hide
Optional SANParks guided night drive
Stay:
Camping
Day 5: Nossob → Mabuasehube (via Kaa Gate or Bosobogolo)
Drive: ±5–6 hrs (4x4-only route through deep sand)
Highlights:
Remote 4x4 route into the Botswana side
Stunning isolation, chances of oryx, lion, brown hyena
Stay:
Camping
Day 6–7: Mabuasehube (2 More Nights)
Highlights:
Explore different pans: Mpayathutlwa, Khiding, Monamodi
Sunrise & sunset drives from camp
Watch wildlife from your campsite all day
Stay:
Continue camping at your chosen Mabuasehube site
Day 8: Mabuasehube → Rooiputs / Polentswa (SA side wilderness camp)
Drive: ±5–6 hrs (slow sand tracks)
Highlights:
Exit via Mabua Gate and re-enter SA side
Incredible sightings and dunes en route to Rooiputs or Polentswa
Rooiputs is great for lions; Polentswa offers isolation
Stay:
🏕️ Camping
Day 9: Rooiputs → Askham / Van Zylsrus (Transit Night Out of Park)
Drive: ±4 hrs from Rooiputs to park exit, then ±2–3 hrs
Highlights:
Exit via Two Rivers Gate
Drive to Askham or Van Zylsrus for a cozy post-bush stop
Stay:
🛏️ Lodge
Day 10: Return to Johannesburg
Drive: ±8 hrs
Early start and relaxed drive back with breakfast stop along the way
