Meet Botswana’s desert. Recognisable by its endlessly rolling red sand dunes, parched fossil riverbeds and wide acacia savannas, the Kalahari Desert is one of Africa’s richest and most remote safari destinations – and the perfect destination for your 2013 break.
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is where South Africa and Botswana relinquish their borders and offer the Kalahari wilderness to animals trekking along their ancient migration routes. A protected peace park, the Kgalagadi is one of the largest conservation areas in the world, sustaining truly unspoiled ecosystems and providing an environment preferred by predators, plains game and creatures such as the adorable meerkat.
Safaris in this desert expanse require thorough preparation and are carried out self-drive style, with drinking water and rooftop tents on the ‘necessities’ list. The majestic maze of gravel roads, sparse shrubbery and scenery that stretches towards the sun-drenched horizon will excite holidaymakers in the most weathered 4x4s and possibly overwhelm the novice traveller. But there’s a new destination on the Botswana side of the Kgalagadi that will enrich and soothe any safari soul – the Ta Shebube desert circuit promises to reawaken the adventurer in you.
Opening in April, Ta Shebube’s first luxury desert lodge, Rooiputs (indeed, the only luxury accommodation available on the Botswana side of the park), is planting its roots in the thirsty riverbed of the Nossob valley. Settled along ancient red sand dunes that produce views over a popular waterhole, the thatched chalets are extended by wooden decks that are built to portray perfect panoramas. Indoors, the furnishings reflect the rich, ethnic textures of southern Africa and the desert. Rooiputs has used spaciousness to coax relaxation, with areas designed for peace and privacy in which guests can admire raptors frequently soaring over desert plains and other desert sepcies. An airy lounge area, bar, and a comfortable dining room offer wider views of the acacia-filled valley.
In May the second lodge, Polentswa, will be launched. This classic tented camp, designed to embody the air of a bygone era, lies among tall trees overlooking the Polentswa Pan, known for its blood-red sunsets. Scattered salt pans and dollops of vegetation comprise the scenery surrounding Polentswa, while the waterholes here attract a hearty number of gemsbok and, in turn, prowling black-maned lions.
In September, Union’s End will open its doors to complete this trio of destinations. Also situated on the banks of the Nossob River, this camp with its six canvas tents will appeal to adventurous travellers. En-suite facilities provide much-appreciated comfort, while delicious cuisine is served under the star-encrusted Kalahari night sky. This is the year for both safari veterans and newbies to explore the Kgalagadi from Ta Shebube’s trio of desert lodges. The desert will lure you back.
The iconic oryx
Meerkats on lookout
Kudu stag in the Kgalagadi
Crimson-breasted shrike
Kgalagadi lion stopping for a drink
Springbok silhouette at sunset
For further information, go to www.sunsafaris.com/safari/botswana/kgalagadi-transfrontier-park