The Beginner’s Guide to Finding Big Cats in South Africa

Hey there! Have you ever wondered how to spot big cats in the vast wilderness of South Africa? Well, you’re in luck! Today, I’ll be sharing some expert tips and tricks to help you on your quest.

First things first, let’s talk about the best places to find these majestic creatures. One surefire spot is Kruger National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary that’s home to lions, leopards, and cheetahs. With its vast landscapes and diverse wildlife, it’s a dream come true for any big cat enthusiast.

But how exactly do you go about finding these elusive felines? Tracking them is no easy feat, but with a little patience and persistence, you’ll increase your chances of a successful encounter. Keep your eyes peeled for fresh tracks or signs of recent activity. Big cats are known for leaving their mark, so be on the lookout for claw marks on trees or flattened grass.

Another helpful tip is to head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Big cats are most active during these cooler hours, making it the prime time for sightings. If you’re lucky, you might witness an awe-inspiring chase or an elegant leap from a tree branch.

Now, let’s talk about the importance of silence and stillness. Big cats have keen senses and can easily be startled by loud noises or sudden movements. So, when you’re on the lookout, remember to stay quiet and avoid any sudden gestures. Blend in with your surroundings and become invisible to the keen eyes of these masters of stealth.

Oh, and don’t forget to bring a good pair of binoculars! These will come in handy when you’re trying to spot a cat that’s hiding in the distance. Take your time to scan the landscape, focusing on areas where they may be lurking. Patience is key, my friend.

Lastly, I want to emphasize the importance of respecting these incredible animals and their natural habitat. When observing them, keep a safe distance and never approach them. It’s crucial to remember that we are visitors in their world and must treat them with the utmost care and respect.

So, there you have it – my beginner’s guide to finding big cats in South Africa. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing unforgettable encounters with these magnificent creatures. Good luck, and enjoy your safari adventure!

So, I’ve got this insider info from big-cat experts Richard Mckibbin and Alexander Braczkowski on the absolute best places in South Africa to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs. They know all the sweet spots!

Where to spot the mighty lion

Picture this: when you come face to face with the biggest and most awe-inspiring cat in all of Africa, it really puts your mortality into perspective. Researchers Paul Funston and Neil Midlane, who work for the NGO Panthera, have discovered that lions love hanging out near the road networks in our parks. So if you head out on an early morning drive, you might just catch a glimpse of these regal felines, basking in the open space and the lingering warmth of the pavement. Spotting a lion is no sweat, as they tend to chill out when they’re not on the hunt or snoozing away in some hidden thicket (which, by the way, they can do for a whopping 21 hours a day!).

Exploring Kruger National Park

When you visit Kruger National Park, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe lions in their natural habitat. While lions can be found throughout the park, the southern and central sections are known for their higher lion populations. Lions are skilled ambush hunters, and during the winter months, when water is scarce, they often wait near waterholes, patiently watching for thirsty animals to approach. As you explore the park, remember to keep a keen eye on the surrounding bush, as lions may be lurking nearby.

If you’re looking for an excellent chance to see lions, head to the open terrain around Satara Rest Camp. This area is famous for its frequent lion sightings, and there’s even a well-known super pride that regularly spends time near the S100 road. Additionally, be sure to visit Nsemani Dam and take a drive along the H7 road to Orpen Gate, as these areas are also known for their lion activity.

Exploring Kruger National Park is an adventure like no other. The thrill of encountering lions in the wild is an experience you won’t soon forget. So grab your binoculars, keep your eyes peeled, and get ready for an unforgettable safari in Kruger National Park!

Lions like to hunt near rivers and waterholes. You might see mating pairs like this one on the banks of the Sabie River. Take a look at this photo by Alexander Braczkowski.

In the southern part of the park, near Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp, you often find the Vurhami Pride in the trees. You can also see lions along the S28 road all the way to Lower Sabie. Another good lion road is the H4-1 to Skukuza. You can drive most of these roads in a circle in one day. If you’re still out of luck, try the H1-2 and H1-3 between Skukuza and Satara.

Now let’s talk about Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.

Hey there! Guess what? I’ve got some fascinating insider information about iMfolozi Park and its majestic lions! Let me tell you all about it, right off the bat.

So, according to Dr. Dave Druce, iMfolozi’s reserve ecologist, there could be as many as 120 lions in this incredible park. And get this…some of them are actually famous for their tree-climbing skills! How cool is that?

Now, here’s the scoop on where to go for the best lion sightings. While you can come across these magnificent creatures in various parts of the park, there are a few specific hotspots that you should keep in mind.

First up, we have the Masinda Pride. You’ll often find them hanging around the regular buffalo herds that roam between Masinda Lodge and the Black iMfolozi Bridge. That’s roughly between points six and seven on the visitors map (which you can grab at the gate). And get this…you might just spot up to 13 lions all at once! How incredible would that be?

Now, let’s talk about the stunning viewpoint at number 17. It’s truly something special. From there, you can look out over a picturesque bend in the river and, quite often, catch a glimpse of the majestic Sontuli Pride. Just imagine the breathtaking sights you’ll witness!

So, don’t forget to swing by these hotspots during your visit to iMfolozi Park. Trust me, the chance to see these incredible lions in their natural habitat is an experience you won’t want to miss!

Hey there! Look up and see the magnificent sight in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, where a stunning male lion and his entire pride are taking a break in a marula tree near Centenary Centre. Isn’t that amazing?

If you haven’t had any luck spotting them yet, don’t worry. I have a tip for you! Head over to Sontuli Loop or explore the outer loop roads from 18 (except for the 4×4 loop) and make your way to the lookout at 27. Be sure to keep an eye out for them in the riverbed, especially in the mornings when they like to chill there.

Let’s talk about Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park now.

I decided to include Kgalagadi in this piece because it’s truly one of a kind. The wildlife and landscapes you encounter here are like nothing else, making it a photographer’s dream. But what sets Kgalagadi apart from other places is its extraordinary population of lions. These magnificent creatures have a genetic heritage that is unmatched anywhere else. It’s truly a privilege to witness them in their natural habitat.

If you’re hoping to spot lions without venturing too far from your base, Nossob Rest Camp’s waterhole is the place to be. You can enjoy the incredible sight of these powerful creatures without even leaving the comfort of your camp. The area surrounding Nossob River, with its dense Acacia erioloba woodland, provides the perfect hunting ground for lions and their preferred prey. So, keep your eyes peeled while driving along the stretch of road between Nossob and Polentswa, and make sure to make a pit stop at the Cubitjie Quap waterhole.

Have you ever marveled at the majestic lions of the Kgalagadi? These incredible creatures thrive in a hostile environment, like this beautiful female captured in a photograph by Richard Mckibbin.

Between Twee Rivieren and Nossob, there are other exciting places to explore, such as Leeuwdril, Rooiputs, and Marie se Draai. If you head north, you might even have a decent chance of spotting lions at Grootkolk.

Where can you find leopards?

Nothing can quite compare to the breathtaking experience of coming across a leopard. They are incredibly elusive due to their secretive nature, remarkable camouflage, and their preference for being active during dawn and dusk.

If you want to succeed at this task, you need to start off on the right foot. And to do that, you need to be in the right place at the right time. Now, figuring out the perfect timing is not easy, but I’ve got a little trick that might help you out. Just keep your windows open. It might sound strange, but trust me, it works.

Now, there are some animals out there with skills that are far superior to ours. Take baboons and monkeys, for example. These clever creatures have incredible eyesight, and they actually use sentinels to keep an eye out for predators. These sentinels perch themselves up high, where they have a better view of the surrounding area. If they spot something dangerous, they’ll let out loud barks and high-pitched cackles as a warning.

So, here’s the important part. If you’re paying attention and can recognize these warning sounds, it means that there’s something close by that you need to be aware of. Now, there are other animals that can help you out too. Take impala and the three Tragelaphus species, for instance. These amazing creatures have incredible hearing and a keen sense of smell. When they sense danger, they often snort or bark while facing the direction of the predator.

If you want to succeed at this task, just follow their lead. These animals have been honing their survival skills for centuries. So, if you pay attention to their warnings and follow their lead, you’ll be well on your way to success. Trust me, it’s a strategy that won’t let you down.

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of leopards! Did you know that these majestic creatures have unique behavioral patterns? It’s true! I’m about to reveal some interesting insights about how leopards behave in their natural habitat.

First off, leopards are known to be quite active during specific times of the day. You’ll have the best chance of spotting them at dawn and dusk. They tend to be on the move during these twilight hours, exploring their surroundings.

But that’s not all! Leopards also love to take advantage of certain weather conditions. After rainfall or on overcast days, they become more active, eagerly exploring their territory. It seems like they enjoy the cooler atmosphere and the fresh scent that the rain brings.

Now, when the sun’s rays are scorching the ground, you might think that leopards would be seeking shade. Well, you’re partly right! These clever creatures seek refuge in large, dense trees during the hottest parts of the day. They know how to stay cool and comfortable.

But where else can you find them? Ah, the answer lies in specific locations within their habitat. They often hang out in drainage lines, rivers, and on koppies, those small hills that dot the landscape. These spots provide a perfect setting for leopards to sunbathe and recharge their energy.

So, here’s a tip: if you’re longing to catch a glimpse of a leopard, keep your binoculars handy and make frequent stops. Take the time to scan areas like large trees, drainage lines, rivers, and koppies. You never know what hidden gem might be waiting to be discovered!

Welcome to Kruger National Park

When it comes to spotting leopards in the Sabie Sand River basin, your best chance is to drive the H4-1 between Skukuza and Lower Sabie either in the early morning or late afternoon. Take it slow and keep your eyes peeled for the Kigelia africana (sausage tree), Trichillia emetica (Natal mahogany), Ficus sycomorus (sycamore fig), and Combretum imberbe (leadwood) trees. Leopards are known to frequent these areas, seeking shade and shelter from the heat of the day. Keep an eye out for them crossing the road or hidden among the reed beds and rocks along the river. They are elusive creatures, but with patience and a keen eye, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these majestic predators.

Hey there! Guess what? Leopards in Kruger National Park have an interesting diet. They mostly feast on prey that weighs anywhere between 15 to 40 kilograms. That’s what makes Kruger such a fantastic place to spot these magnificent creatures. Check out the adorable photo of a young leopard cub chowing down on a duiker head, taken by Alexander Braczkowski!

Kruger is home to one of the largest leopards ever recorded in the area. This beast is so famous that it even has its own Facebook page, known as Mbavala Male Leopard. How cool is that? If you’re eager to catch a glimpse of leopards, keep an eye out along the H11 area. The S100 road around Satara is another excellent spot, along with Nsemani Dam and the H7 road to Orpen. Don’t forget to carefully scan all riverbeds; leopards love those areas!

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

When I embarked on the world’s first long-term leopard research study, I was amazed by the abundance of leopards in the Dankbaar Windmill and Nossob areas. In this semi-desert ecosystem, prey is scarce, forcing the leopards to roam across vast home ranges of 1500-4000 km². They rarely spend more than a day on a kill, but thanks to the semi-open terrain, waterholes, and the relaxed nature of some cats, we were fortunate to have many memorable sightings.

If you’re planning a visit from Twee Rivieren or Urikaruus, I recommend exploring the Auob riverbed, especially around the 13th and 14th boreholes. Alternatively, if you’re starting from Nossob Camp, follow the Nossob River north and keep an eye on the Cubitje Quap waterhole. And don’t miss the opportunity to visit the hide at Nossob, where you can observe the incredible wildlife attracted to the floodlit waterhole at night.

Welcome to iSimangaliso Wetland Park

When it comes to finding leopards in South Africa, the Eastern Shores section of iSimangaliso is truly exceptional. It’s like stepping into a breathtaking landscape where nature’s beauty unfolds before your eyes.

Imagine this: strips of lush forest stretching out in perfect harmony, with patches of grassland gently dividing them. It’s a picturesque scene straight out of a wildlife documentary, and it’s here that you’ll find leopards in all their majestic glory.

As I explore this remarkable place, I can’t help but feel a sense of wonder. The forest seems to hum with life, and I know that somewhere in the shadows, a leopard is prowling. The anticipation builds with each step, as if I’m entering a secret world where anything is possible.

Leopards are elusive creatures, but the Eastern Shores section of iSimangaliso has become a haven for them. Sightings have become more frequent and thrilling over the years, drawing nature enthusiasts from far and wide.

It’s no wonder that leopards are drawn to this area. With strips of forest running parallel to each other, it’s like a network of hidden pathways that beckon them. The grasslands in between provide the perfect hunting ground, where they can stalk their prey with stealth and precision.

As I continue my journey through this remarkable landscape, I can’t help but marvel at the beauty and diversity of nature. The Eastern Shores section of iSimangaliso is a place where dreams come true and where the wild remains truly wild.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience, this is it. Trust me, the Eastern Shores section of iSimangaliso will captivate your heart and leave you in awe of the natural world.

Hey there! Have you ever seen a leopard in the wild? If not, you’re in for a real treat at iSimangaliso’s Eastern Shores. These leopards are like the kings and queens of the jungle, finding the perfect spots to hide and go on the hunt. It’s truly a sight to behold!

Now, if you happen to be driving through the forested area along the main tar road, there’s something important to keep in mind. Take it slow, especially during dusk. You see, there are a few leopards roaming around this part, and they like to keep to the edges of the forest. So be sure to keep your eyes peeled!

When it comes to finding cheetahs, there are a few places you should definitely check out. One spot that is known for its cheetah sightings is the area around Catalina Bay turn off. Don’t forget to keep your windows open as you drive along the forest edges, as you might just hear the alarms of monkeys or bushbucks, letting you know that a cheetah is nearby.

Another great place to look for cheetahs is at the southern end of the Grassand Loop, where you’ll find Bhangazi Bush Lodge. This part of the loop takes you through a swamp forest and even crosses a small bridge. Keep your eyes peeled, especially in the early mornings, as cheetahs are known to frequent the open grasslands in this area.

If you want to increase your chances of seeing a cheetah, don’t forget to explore the end of the Dune Loop. This section has two forest areas separated by a ridge. It’s a hotspot for resident male and female leopards, which can often be spotted from both the loop and the main road. Make sure to carefully scan these areas in the mornings and afternoons for the best chance of catching a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.

The perfect spot for cheetah sightings

The cheetah, one of Africa’s three big cats, is in a precarious position with less than 5000 left in the wild. These magnificent creatures are sleek, graceful, and incredibly fast. Unlike their lion and leopard counterparts who rely on stealth, cheetahs are all about speed when hunting. They are built for open terrain and have evolved to be expert hunters. It’s fascinating to know that their adorable cubs often mimic honey badgers to stay safe from predators. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, only one out of every five cubs survives its first year. The good news is that cheetahs, though rare, are not easily startled by vehicles in most parks. Their behavior, preference for daylight activity, and habitat choice make for exciting sightings.

A cool, stylish male cheetah walks casually along a road in the lowveld, searching for prey. Photo by Richard Mckibbin.

Kruger National Park

According to the research conducted by Gus Mills, one of the leading experts on cheetahs, these magnificent cats prefer knobthorn and marula woodland. If you’re in Kruger National Park, you’ll have the best chance of spotting cheetahs in the south and central areas, specifically Lower Sabie, Satara, and Orpen. Take a drive along the S28 (Nhlowa Road) from Lower Sabie to Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp, and keep an eye out around Nthandanyathi Hide, as well as Duke’s and Mac’s waterholes. The S29 and roads leading to Mlondozi Dam are also great options for cheetah sightings. In the central areas, make sure not to miss the famous S100 road, which frequently reveals cheetahs. Another excellent spot is the H7 between Satara and Orpen, especially near the S36 junction.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Hey there! I’ve got some great tips for finding cheetahs in the park! Let me show you the best spot to catch a glimpse of these incredible animals.

If you head over to the viewpoint at 17, located at the northern end of the Sontuli Loop, you’ll be in for a treat. This area is perfect for cheetah sightings. It’s nice and open, allowing for excellent visibility. The view site itself, as well as a few kilometers of road in each direction, are famous for cheetah spottings.

Now, let me introduce you to the star of the show – the dominant male cheetah who has been reigning in this area for many years. He’s commonly known as ‘short-tail/half-tail/stumpy’ for some pretty obvious reasons. Keep an eye out for him!

Another area worth exploring is the roads from point 19 all the way to point 25 in the north-western part of the iMfolozi section. Here, you’ll find good open stretches where cheetahs often roam. However, be aware that during the hottest part of the day, you might only catch a glimpse of a cheetah’s head poking out from the shade of an umbrella thorn or scented thorn tree.

So, there you have it – the best spots for cheetah sightings in the park. I hope these tips help you on your cheetah-seeking adventure. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the thrill of spotting these magnificent creatures!

When a cheetah, the fastest land animal, slows down just enough for a photo, it gives us a chance to capture an amazing sighting. You never know when that moment will come, but when it does, it’s truly special.

Discovering Cheetahs in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Gus and Margie Mills dedicated their lives to studying cheetahs in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. They learned that cheetahs fared much better here, compared to other locations in Africa, where lions often pose a threat to cheetah cubs. To increase your chances of spotting these majestic cats, head to the areas along the Auob riverbed.

One particular stretch of road, between Kamfersboom and the 14th borehole, is known for its cheetah sightings. Keep a close eye on the dune grassveld above the riverbed; cheetahs often use it as a vantage point to scan for potential prey. If you’re exploring the Nossob riverbed, make sure to stop at spots like Leeuwdril, where a coalition of three male cheetahs resides, as well as Kij Kij and Melkvlei, which are home to a number of resident cheetahs.

Plan your trip: Kruger National Park

What you need to know: Kruger National Park is a malaria area, so it’s important to take necessary precautions. The roads in the park can be accessed with a sedan car.

Gate opening times: The park’s gate opening times vary depending on the season. During midsummer (November to February), the gates open at 5:30am and close at 6:30pm. In midwinter (May to July), the gates open at 6am and close at 5:30pm.

Cost: The entrance fee for Kruger National Park is R70 per day for South African residents, R140 for residents of other Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, and R280 for foreign visitors. Children under 12 years old pay half-price. Holders of a Wild Card enter for free.

Contact information: You can contact Kruger National Park at tel:0124289111 or visit their website at sanparks.org

Accommodation in Kruger National Park

If you’re looking for accommodation in Kruger National Park, Orpen Rest Camp is the place to be. It’s known as a hotspot for cat activity. Bungalows are available starting from R1000 per night for two people, and guest cottages start at R1850 per night for a group of four.

Satara Rest Camp, located 50 kilometers east of Orpen, is a paradise for big cats and famous for its lion sightings. When you’re looking to camp, it will cost you R210 for two people. Additional adults can join for R76 each (up to a maximum of six) and extra children for R38 each. If you prefer a bit more comfort, you can book a bungalow starting from R985 for two people. Another option is the guest cottage, which starts at R2150 for four people.

Situated in a unique ecosystem along the Sabie River, Lower Sabie Rest Camp offers easy access to the road network. Camping at Lower Sabie is available for R285 for two people, with each additional adult costing R76 (up to a maximum of six people). For a more rustic experience, you can stay in a bush hut for R550 for two people. If you’re traveling with a family, family bungalows are available starting from R2075 for four people.

At Skukuza Rest Camp, you can enjoy a fantastic viewing deck that provides opportunities to spot big cats. Camping facilities are available for R235 for two people, with each extra adult costing R76 (up to a maximum of six people). If camping isn’t your thing, you can book a bungalow starting from R985 for two people.

So, if you’re passionate about spotting big cats and enjoy being surrounded by nature, these camps have got you covered. Whether you prefer camping or staying in one of the comfortable accommodations, there’s an option for everyone. Just pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Hey there! Welcome to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, a place full of adventure and breathtaking wildlife. As you explore this beautiful park, you’ll soon realize that the leopards here are quite comfortable with vehicles like ours. They roam the roads during the early mornings and late afternoons, giving us the perfect opportunity to witness their majestic presence.

Get Ready for an Amazing Journey at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Listen up: It’s important to be aware that Hluhluwe is a place where malaria can be a risk, so you should take necessary precautions. Don’t worry though, fuel is available inside the park at Hilltop Camp, which is also home to a restaurant and a small shop. If you need more supplies, you can head to the closest towns, Hluhluwe and Mtubatuba, which have fuel and supermarkets. Remember to bring everything you need with you, so you can fully enjoy your time in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.
Let’s talk about gate times: During the summer months from November to February, the park gates open bright and early at 5am and close at 7pm. In the winter months from March to October, the gates open a bit later at 6am and close at 6pm. So, plan your visit accordingly and make the most of your time exploring the park’s natural wonders.
Now, let me break down the cost: For South Africans, the entry fee is R90 per person, which includes a R5 conservation fee. Kids under 12 get in at half the price. If you’re visiting from abroad, the entry fee is R175 per person. No matter where you’re from, the vehicle fee is R47 per vehicle. And hey, if you happen to have a Rhino Card, lucky you! You get in for free. So, don’t forget to bring it along.
Got any questions? If you need more information or have any questions, you can reach out to the park at Tel 0338451000 or visit their website at kznwildlife.com. They’ll be happy to assist you in any way.

Looking for a place to stay?

Imagine this: Mpila Camp, the ultimate wildlife hotspot. It’s amazing how many incredible creatures you can spot right outside your door. And if you need something, there’s a convenient shop offering all the basics you might want – charcoal, drinks, and snacks. You won’t believe the prices – R870 for a two-bed chalet or R1280 for a safari tent that comfortably fits three people.

Now, let’s talk about Masinda Lodge. This place is perfect for a larger group, with rates starting at R3480 for six people. And the best part? It’s only R580 per person if you have more than six people in your group. This cozy lodge can accommodate up to eight people, so invite some friends and enjoy the adventure together.

Now, let’s dive into the details of planning your trip to Eastern Shores, iSimangaliso Wetland Park. It’s an incredible place to explore, with so much natural beauty to discover. Make sure to take your time and soak it all in. Remember to pack your essentials and prepare for an unforgettable experience.

So, whether you choose Mpila Camp or Masinda Lodge, you’re in for an incredible adventure. Get ready to be amazed by the wonders of nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your trip today!

Important Information: If you’re planning a visit to iSimangaliso, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the area is at risk for malaria. Make sure you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. While the closest town to the park is St Lucia, and it has fuel stations and supermarkets, you can also find basic supplies at the curio shop in Cape Vidal.

Opening and Closing Times: The gates at iSimangaliso have specific operating hours. During the summer months (from November 1st to March 31st), the gates open at 5am and close at 7pm. In the winter months (from April 1st to October 31st), the gates open at 6am and close at 6pm.

Entry Fees: To enter the park, there are fees that you need to consider. For adults, the entry fee is R45, and for kids, it is R30. These fees also include a R5 levy. In addition, there is a vehicle fee of R50 for up to six people, and R75 for up to twelve people. If you plan to stay overnight, there is an additional charge of R6 per person.

Contact Information: If you have any questions or need to get in touch with iSimangaliso Wetland Park, you can reach them at Tel 0338451000. You can also visit their website at kznwildlife.com for more information.

Accommodation in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Hey there! Let me tell you about Cape Vidal. It’s such a cool place! They’ve got these amazing log cabins and a really awesome campsite. Picture this: you’re surrounded by lush tropical forest and towering sand dunes. It’s like paradise!

The log cabins are super affordable! For the first three people, it’s only R1,500. After that, it’s just R500 per person. So you can bring your whole crew! The cabins can sleep up to five people, so there’s plenty of room for everyone.

If camping is more your style, they’ve got you covered. The campsite is just R520 for two people. It’s a great option if you want to really connect with nature.

Now, let me introduce you to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Ready for an adventure?

Here’s what you should know: There are well-stocked shops available at Twee Rivieren, Mata-Mata, and Nossob camps, where you can find everything you need. You can also get fuel at these camps. The roads in the park are not paved, but they are still fine to drive on even if you have a regular car. Just remember to deflate your tires to 1.5 bar before driving on sand, and be prepared for some dust.
Gate times: The main entrance gate to the park, located at Twee Rivieren, opens every day at 7am. During midsummer (November to January), the camp gates open earlier, at 5:30am, and close at 7:30pm. In midwinter, they open at 7:30am and close at 6pm. The gate times may vary during the shoulder seasons.
Cost: The entrance fee is R70 per day for South Africans, R140 per day for residents of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and R280 per day for international visitors. Children under 12 years old pay half price.
Contact: You can reach them by calling 0124289111, or you can visit the sanparks.org website for more information.

About accommodation in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

I stayed at Nossob Rest Camp, and let me tell you, they have some amazing options for accommodation. Whether you prefer camping or staying in a chalet or guest cottage, they’ve got you covered. And the best part? You might even spot some leopards at the waterhole, especially at night. How cool is that? Camping is super affordable, starting from just R255 for two people. If you’re looking for a bit more comfort, their chalets are available from R870 and can accommodate two people. And if you’re traveling with your family, they have a spacious cottage for four people, starting from R1495. It’s a great place to stay, especially if you love wildlife and nature.

Now, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you should check out Grootkolk Wilderness Camp. This campsite is located right in the middle of the dunes, and you’ll have nothing but the stars and lions for company. Talk about a unique experience! The only accommodation option here is a two-sleeper desert cabin, which starts from R1510 per night. It’s a bit pricier, but totally worth it if you want to immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Oh, and by the way, this information was first published in the February 2016 issue of Getaway magazine. So you know it’s reliable.

Just a heads up, though: prices may change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the establishment before you go. Have an amazing trip!