Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Pros & Cons

• Excellent wildlife viewing
• Stunning desert scenery and great photographic opportunities
• Great birding, especially raptors
• Off-the-beaten-track destination with great wilderness appeal
• Upmarket lodge and self-catering accommodation (South Africa)
• Less variety of animals than in savannah reserves
• Far away from South Africa's main tourist attractions
• Very hot conditions

Wildlife

The Kgalagadi is not a Big Five destination, as it has no elephant, rhino or buffalo. Animal numbers are lower than in more classic safari destinations, but the open terrain makes for very good viewing. Predators are the park’s biggest attraction. These include leopard, cheetah, spotted and brown hyena and smaller species such as bat-eared fox and Cape fox. Lions are numerous and males are known for their spectacular black manes.

• More about Kgalagadi’s wildlife

Scenery

For many people, the scenery is as much an attraction of this park as the wildlife. The red sand dunes and endless vistas are quite unique. The dry riverbeds of the Nossob and Auob are lifelines in this harsh environment.

Weather & Climate

Forceful storms dump a large amount of water on the Kgalagadi during the park’s summer (October to April). This is when it can also get fiercely hot here, though thankfully the humidity doesn’t hit similar heights. You’ll often wake up to subzero temperatures during winter (May to September), which transform into crisp, sunny days.

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time To Visit

The period of transition from the Wet season (October to April) to the Dry season (May to September) is the best time for wildlife viewing. The worst of the heat will have passed, and there’ll be enough water in the rivers to draw lots of animals. Just remember to pack plenty of warm clothes to deal with plummeting temperatures in the evening, as well as the chilly morning air.

• More about the best time to visit

Want To Visit Kgalagadi TP?

Kgalagadi Safaris

• Kgalagadi Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Kgalagadi