Kalahari 4WD Road Trip

The Kalahari 4WD Road Trip is a great way to explore the stunning landscapes of Botswana. Starting in Gaborone and ending in Maun, taking in the towns of Kaudwane and Xade along the way, this 1385km journey can take up to 5 days to complete. The best time to take this trip is during the dry season, from April to October. You can expect to see a variety of landscapes, from rolling sand dunes to thick forest, as you travel along the mostly poor road conditions. Some parts of the trip are only accessible to 4WDs, and some of the roads are narrow, but the experience and the memories you make will be worth it. This trip can be managed on a moderate budget, and is suitable for all drivers.

Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, is the perfect starting point for a road trip through the Kalahari Desert. Located near the South African border, Gaborone is a modern city full of culture, history, and activities. For those flying in, the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (IATA code: GBE) is the closest international airport. There are many car rental services available at the airport, making it easy to pick up a car for the road trip. Once in Gaborone, there are many interesting sights to visit. The Gaborone Dam is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and bird watching. The National Museum and Art Gallery is a great place to learn about Botswana’s history and culture. The Mokolodi Nature Reserve is a great place to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. Gaborone is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a relaxing evening out, Gaborone has something for everyone. Gaborone is the ideal starting point for a Kalahari 4WD Road Trip, with its convenient airport, car rental services, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or a relaxing evening, Gaborone has something for everyone.

Embark on a journey down the well-maintained road from Gaborone to Kaudwane and take in the beautiful landscapes of Botswana. The 217 km drive will take no more than 6 hours and a 4WD is required for some sections, as the roads are narrow. On the way, you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in the country. In Gaborone, you can visit the National Museum and the Botanical Gardens, where you can observe and learn about the local wildlife. Kaudwane is home to the spectacular Gaborone Dam, where you can enjoy a picnic, take a boat ride and observe the many birds that call it home. As you drive, take in the scenery and be sure to take lots of pictures. You will be able to visit local villages and have the opportunity to interact with the locals. This is one of the most interesting stages of your road trip, so don't forget to check the "Itinerary" for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.

Embark on an exciting road-trip from the bustling city of Kaudwane in Botswana to Xade, a distance of 703 km, that will take you less than 15 hours of driving. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, but you'll still be able to take in some of the most beautiful sights in the region. You'll need a 4WD vehicle to traverse some of the narrower roads, but the journey will be worth it for the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. Along the way, you'll find places to stop and explore, such as the fossilized riverbed of the Boteti River, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Make sure to take advantage of the many accommodation and restaurant options available, as well as the campsites located around the route. For further information regarding attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Welcome road-trippers! Embark on an amazing journey from Xade, Botswana to Maun and explore the incredible attractions in between. This 465 km trip will take you fewer than 11 hours. 4WD is required and keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. Gas stations may not always be available, so make sure to fill up whenever you can. Enjoy the scenic road and keep your eyes peeled for the beautiful wildlife that may be around. Don't forget to check out the local attractions when you arrive in Maun. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and amazing adventure!

Maun, Botswana is the perfect ending point for the Kalahari 4WD Road Trip. Located in the northwest of the country, it is the gateway to the Okavango Delta, allowing visitors to explore the area by car, boat, or air. The town itself is an interesting place to visit, with its bustling markets, traditional crafts, and restaurants. There are also plenty of sights to explore, such as the Maun Wildlife Education Centre, where visitors can learn about the local wildlife, and the Nhabe Museum, which tells the story of the local people. For those who want to explore the Okavango Delta, Maun is the ideal starting point. From here, you can take a 4WD safari and explore the area by car, or take a boat trip on the delta's many channels. For those travelling by air, the closest international airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (IATA: GBE), which is located just outside Maun. No matter how you choose to explore the area, Maun is the perfect ending point for the Kalahari 4WD Road Trip. From here, you can explore the natural beauty of the Okavango Delta or simply enjoy the vibrant town of Maun.

Before you set off

Embark on the Kalahari 4WD Road Trip for an exhilarating exploration of Botswana's stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Covering approximately 1385km, this journey starts in Gaborone, Botswana's vibrant capital, and concludes in Maun, the renowned gateway to the Okavango Delta. Over the span of about 5 to 7 days, depending on pace and stops, travelers will traverse through lesser-known locales such as Kaudwane and Xade, experiencing the country's rich culture and natural splendor.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Gaborone: Not just the starting point, but also a city with a mix of modern and traditional elements, vibrant markets, and the impressive Gaborone Game Reserve.
• Kaudwane and Xade: These remote villages in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve provide insights into the lives of the local San (Basarwa) people and their rich cultural heritage.
• Maun: A bustling Safari town that serves as the perfect base for excursions into the Okavango Delta. Boat Trips and flights over the delta offer breathtaking views of this unique inland water system.

Top sights along the route include the majestic Central Kalahari Game Reserve, where you can witness the expansive Kalahari Desert with its golden grasslands, the mirage-inducing salt pans, and the chance to spot iconic African wildlife such as lions, giraffes, and meerkats in their natural habitat.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for this Road Trip is during Botswana's dry season, from April to October, when wildlife viewing is at its best, and the lack of rain makes the Roads more navigable.

Potential Risks:

• The challenge of traversing rough terrain, which necessitates the use of a 4WD vehicle.
• Encountering narrow and potentially sandy or muddy Roads that demand careful navigation skills.
• Frequent wildlife crossings that require drivers to remain alert and cautious to ensure safety for both animals and travelers.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• This adventure can cater to varying budgets, with options for camping or lodging in Safari camps.
• The journey is suitable for those comfortable with off-Road driving and in possession of a reliable 4WD vehicle.
• Access to services and amenities may be sporadic in remote areas, highlighting the importance of self-sufficiency.
• Essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, fuel, and a satellite phone for emergencies should be well-stocked before departure.

A good choice for:

The Kalahari 4WD Road Trip is more than a drive; it's an immersive experience into Botswana's heartland. With its raw beauty and untamed wilderness, this adventure requires thorough planning and a respect for the environment to ensure a memorable and responsible exploration of one of Africa’s most extraordinary regions.