Kalahari Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike and bike routes, and local culture and customs of Kalahari. Learn about safety and health, transportation options, and must-try dishes.


Introduction to Kalahari

Located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, Kalahari is a vast desert that stretches across numerous countries in Southern Africa. Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique culture, Kalahari is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Kalahari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most significant cultural attractions in Kalahari is the !Xaus Lodge, which offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the San people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The lodge provides visitors with an insight into the traditional way of life of the San, including their hunting and gathering techniques, and their deep connection to the land.

Another notable historical place is the Wildebeest Kuil Rock Art Centre, which showcases some of the most impressive rock art in the area. The site provides insight into the ancient cultures that once inhabited the region, dating back over 10,000 years.

Natural Attractions of Kalahari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which spans across South Africa and Botswana, is a true natural wonder of Kalahari. This vast park is home to an incredible array of desert wildlife, including lions, gemsbok, and meerkats.

For breathtaking views of the Kalahari landscape, head to Augrabies Falls National Park. The highlight of this park is the cascading waterfall that plunges more than 50 meters into the Orange River gorge. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kalahari

Meiringskloof Nature Reserve is an excellent destination for those eager to explore the Kalahari wilderness on foot or by bike. The reserve provides visitors with 29km of biking trails and 14km of hiking trails, all surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Best Things to Do in Kalahari: Activities and Tours

For thrill-seekers, Kalahari Quad Biking & Adventures provides an adrenaline-fueled way to experience the landscape. Visitors can enjoy quad biking across the Kalahari Desert or bungee jumping over the Orange River Gorge.

Another popular activity in Kalahari is hot air ballooning. Balloon Safaris South Africa offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kalahari

For a complete experience of Kalahari, we recommend the following one-week itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Kimberley and explore the town’s fascinating history.
  • Day 2-3: Visit Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and experience desert wildlife.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of !Xaus Lodge and immerse yourself in San culture.
  • Day 5: Hike the Augrabies Falls National Park trails and observe the majestic falls.
  • Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride over the desert at sunrise.
  • Day 7: Visit the Wildebeest Kuil Rock Art Centre before departing for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Kalahari

Must-Try Dishes

Braaivleis, or grilled meat, is a South African staple and is particularly popular in Kalahari. Visitors should try Boerewors, a type of sausage made with beef and pork, and sosaties, which are skewers of marinated meat.

For vegetarians, potjiekos is a traditional stew made with vegetables, beans, and spices.

Local Beverages

Amarula, a creamy liqueur made from the fruit of the marula tree, is a popular drink in Kalahari. We also recommend trying Rooibos tea, a caffeine-free herbal tea that is native to South Africa.

Where to Stay in Kalahari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

For a luxury experience, we recommend Tswalu Kalahari, a five-star lodge that offers exclusive access to a vast private nature reserve in the Kalahari.

For more affordable options, Oasis Lodge and Ju/’hoansi Guesthouse provide comfortable staying options in the area.

What to Buy in Kalahari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San crafts are a popular souvenir in Kalahari, including hand-woven baskets, beaded jewelry, and leatherwork. Amarula liqueur is also a popular gift item.

Local Culture and Customs of Kalahari

The San people of Kalahari have a rich cultural history, and visitors should respect their customs and traditions. It is customary to ask for permission before taking photographs, and visitors should avoid touching any artifacts or objects at historical sites.

Best Time to Visit Kalahari

The best time to visit Kalahari is during the cooler months from April to October, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months from November to March can be extremely hot, and wildlife sightings may be more difficult due to the vegetation’s dense growth.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kalahari

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Bring sunscreen and plenty of water for outdoor activities.
  • Take advantage of the local cuisine and try new foods and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or violate protected areas.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Make negative comments about cultural beliefs or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kalahari

Kalahari is considered a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should still take basic precautions such as keeping valuables secure and staying aware of their surroundings at all times, particularly in public areas.

Health in Kalahari

Visitors should take precautions to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria and bring appropriate medications. Medical services are limited in some areas of Kalahari, so visitors should ensure they have adequate insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Kalahari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kalahari

The nearest airport to Kalahari is Kimberley Airport, which provides domestic flights from major cities in South Africa. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to reach the Kalahari region from Kimberley.

Bus Stations Near Kalahari

Intercape and Greyhound are two bus services that operate between major cities in South Africa, including Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Other Options

Many guided tours and private transportation options are available for those who do not wish to rent a car.

How to Get Around in Kalahari

The most common transportation options in Kalahari are renting a car or joining a guided tour. Biking, hot air ballooning, and walking are also popular options for experiencing the region’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Kalahari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Kalahari, visitors can head to Kimberley to learn about the history of diamond mining in South Africa. The nearby Augrabies Falls National Park is a beautiful spot for hiking and seeing waterfalls.

Conclusion

Kalahari is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique cultural and natural experience. From wildlife safaris to hot air ballooning over the desert, this region offers a wide range of activities and attractions for travelers. Understanding local customs, taking basic safety precautions, and enjoying the local food and drink are all essential to making the most of a visit to this unforgettable destination.



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