Towards Kgalagadi NP Itinerary
Experience an amazing road trip from Upington to Kgalagadi National Park, located in the Republic of South Africa. This 246 km scenic drive provides breathtaking views of the South African landscape and nature, making it a perfect one-day trip. The best time to take this road trip is during the dry season, from April to October. Although the road conditions are not the best, the beautiful landscapes and wildlife make it worth the effort. This road trip is suitable for drivers of all levels and can be done with a fair budget. Make sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the experience, as it will provide you with memories and a high level of satisfaction.
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number of days
246 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Upington
Distance 246 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
73.8 kWh
Airports
UTN
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Located in the Northern Cape of South Africa, Upington is a great starting point for the "Towards Kgalagadi NP Scenic Drive" road trip. The town is known for its arid climate, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage.
Visitors can take a tour of the Augrabies Falls National Park which offers stunning views of the Orange River and its surrounding landscape. This park is also home to the Augrabies Falls, the second-highest waterfall in South Africa.
For those interested in the town's rich culture, the Kalahari-Oranje Museum is a must-see. The museum provides an insight into the history of the region, its people, and its culture.
Upington is also a great spot for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a wildlife tour at the Kamfers Dam Nature Reserve and observe various bird species. The town is also home to the Kalahari-Oranje Nature Reserve, which is a great place for hiking, biking, and bird-watching.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Upington Airport (UTN) with car rentals available.
Upington is the perfect starting point for the "Towards Kgalagadi NP Scenic Drive" road trip. With its stunning landscapes, culture, and outdoor activities, visitors will not be disappointed.
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Upington
- Kgalagadi N.P.
Distance 246 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
73.8 kWh
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View map
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Upington to Kgalagadi National Park? This 246 km journey is full of scenic views, picturesque landscapes and wildlife. You will be able to get to the destination in less than three hours, but keep in mind that there might be a lack of gas stations along the way. As you drive, make sure to keep your eyes open for the spectacular views and wildlife that you will encounter.
When you arrive in Kgalagadi National Park, you will be able to explore the Kalahari desert, the red dunes and the wildlife. There are also some great restaurants, accommodation options and campsites available. For more information about attractions and services along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Kgalagadi N.P. - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
Kgalagadi N.P. - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Scenic Drive - Flickr
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Kgalagadi N.P.
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Kgalagadi National Park in the Republic of South Africa is the ideal destination to end your road trip named "Towards Kgalagadi NP Scenic Drive". This park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as well as over 200 species of birds. Kgalagadi National Park is also known for its stunning red dunes, which stretch for miles across the landscape.
When visiting Kgalagadi National Park, be sure to explore the Nossob and Auob rivers, which are home to a variety of aquatic wildlife. You can also take a scenic drive through the park and visit some of the many lookout points, which offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. The park is also home to several hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the desert on foot.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider taking a guided safari tour of the park. This will give you the opportunity to spot some of the park’s most elusive wildlife, including the elusive brown hyena.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Kgalagadi National Park is Upington International Airport (UTN). From there, you can rent a car and make the drive to the park, which takes around three hours.
Kgalagadi National Park is the perfect destination to end your road trip named "Towards Kgalagadi NP Scenic Drive". With its stunning desert landscape, diverse wildlife, and incredible lookout points, Kgalagadi National Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
Kgalagadi N.P. - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Scenic Drive - Piqsels
Kgalagadi N.P. - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Towards Kgalagadi NP at a glance
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Start:
Upington
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End:
Kgalagadi N.P.
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Distance:
246 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Pierre Van Ryneveld Airport (UTN)
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When to drive:
March, April, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enthralling Road Trip from Upington to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a journey that not only showcases the dramatic South African landscape but also immerses you in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. Spanning approximately 246 km, this drive reveals a tapestry of arid scenery, wildlife encounters, and the spirit of adventure, perfect for Roadtrippers seeking to explore in one day.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
Your ultimate destination is the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This park is a fusion of South Africa's Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana's Gemsbok National Park, creating a massive conservation area. It's celebrated for its towering red sand dunes, diverse ecosystems, and extraordinary wildlife, including the iconic black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, and meerkats. Birdwatchers can also catch glimpses of raptors such as the Pygmy Falcon and sociable weavers with their large communal nests. The park offers enriching experiences like morning and sunset game drives, guided bush walks, and 4x4 trails.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for this Road Trip is during the cooler dry season from April to October. Wildlife congregates around scarce water sources, making sightings more common. The weather is also more temperate, ensuring pleasant travel conditions and clearer Roads.
Potential Risks:
While the main Roads are generally well-maintained, some stretches can be uneven or sandy, requiring careful driving. The remote nature of the region means that help can be far away in case of a breakdown, so a well-maintained vehicle is crucial. Be vigilant for wildlife on Roads, particularly at dawn and dusk when animals are more active.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of the few conservation areas in the world that spans across national borders.
- It is one of the largest wilderness areas in the world, covering over 3.6 million hectares.
- The park is part of the Peace Parks Foundation's efforts to establish transfrontier conservation areas.
- Remember to obtain a map of the park at the entrance gate, which will help you navigate the park's extensive network of Roads.
- Carry extra fuel, as there are long distances between fuel stations.
A good choice for:
A journey to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is not just a Road Trip; it's an exploration of the untamed African wilderness. As you venture from Upington into the stark beauty of the Kalahari, prepare for an experience that transcends the ordinary. With careful planning and respect for the natural environment, your adventure to this remote part of South Africa can become an epic tale to share for years to come.