History
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park stands as a testament to international cooperation and conservation excellence. Established in 2000, this remarkable park represents the merger of South Africa’s Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana’s Gemsbok National Park, creating Africa’s first transfrontier conservation area.
The vision behind this transfrontier park was to create a single ecological unit that would allow for the free movement of wildlife across political boundaries. This groundbreaking initiative has since become a model for conservation efforts across Africa, demonstrating how nations can work together to protect precious ecosystems.
-
Establishment of South African Park
Kalahari Gemsbok National Park established in South Africa to protect migratory game, especially gemsbok, from overhunting and drought.
-
Establishment of Botswana Park
Gemsbok National Park established in Botswana, adjacent to South Africa’s park, also for conservation of desert-adapted wildlife.
-
Independent Operations
Both parks operate independently but with cooperative verbal pact made in 1948, South Africa and the then Bechuanaland (Botswana) to treat their contiguous conservation lands as an ecological unit
-
Billateral Discussions begin
In June 1992, both nations formed a joint management committee, and in 1997 approved a plan to coordinate conservation, sharing tourism and entrance fees .
-
KTP Official launch
The combined area was formally inaugurated as Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park on 12 May 2000, in a joint ceremony by Presidents Mogae and Mbeki, officially making it Africa’s first peace park. The name “Kgalagadi” means “place of thirst” in Setswana.
-
2015–Present
KTP Serves as a model for transboundary conservation in Africa and globally. with continued development of cross-border tourism infrastructure and Community-based tourism and conservation partnerships (especially with San and other local people)
Environment
The Kgalagadi encompasses over 38,000 square kilometers of pristine semi-arid savanna, characterized by red sand dunes, scattered acacia trees, and seasonal riverbeds that rarely flow but support remarkable biodiversity.
This ancient landscape tells the story of geological forces that shaped the region over millions of years. The iconic red sand dunes, some reaching heights of 60 meters, create a striking contrast against the endless blue sky, while providing crucial habitat for specially adapted desert species.
The park’s unique ecosystem supports an intricate web of life, from the smallest insects to the largest predators, all perfectly adapted to survive in this harsh yet beautiful environment.
Location
The KTP is situated in the Kgalagadi District in the extreme southwest corner of Botswana approximately 865 km southwest of Gaborone, and adjacent to South Africa’s Northern Cape Province.
The Park can be accessed by road from Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.
Climate
The climate is typical for an arid area.
During the warm months between October to April, average temperatures can go beyond 40°C. Although this includes the rainy season, rainfall is quite scarce, often accompanied by dramatic thunderstorms.
During cooler months between May and September the highest day temperatures are at a comfortable 26 – 30°C while the winter nights during this period can be exceedingly cold with temperatures falling as low as 10°C below zero. The air is clear and dry. Good game viewing can also be experienced for much of the dry months
Typically for KTP sudden and at times destructive winds can appear from nowhere and leave everything impregnated by fine red sand
Wildlife in the Kgalagadi Desert
Meet the iconic species that call the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park home.
Black-maned Kalahari Lions
These iconic lions have dark, striking manes and rule over vast desert territories with unmatched power and pride.
Gemsbok (Oryx)
Perfectly built for desert survival, gemsbok are powerful antelope with long, elegant horns and calm resilience.
Cheetahs
Graceful and swift, these elite hunters can sprint up to 100 km/h, blending into the golden dunes to stalk their prey.
Brown Hyena
Elusive and shaggy, this scavenger is rarely seen outside the KTP. A master of the night, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
Cape Cobra
This golden-hued snake is both beautiful and deadly. Active during the day, it's one of Africa’s most venomous species.
Meerkats
With curious eyes and communal spirit, these tiny sentinels charm every visitor as they scan the horizon for danger.
Bat-eared Fox
With oversized ears and keen hearing, this insectivore thrives in KTP’s dry grasslands, especially active at dusk.
Secretary Bird
Easily spotted by its long legs and head crest, this predator stomps its prey—especially snakes—with deadly accuracy.
Birds
The Kgalagadi hosts over 280 bird species, from the mighty ostrich to tiny weavers. The park is particularly famous for its raptors, including the majestic secretary bird, bateleur eagles, and various vulture species. The seasonal pans attract numerous waterbirds when filled with rare rains.
Entrance Gates
Two Rivers/ Twee Revieren Gate, Mata-Mata Gate, Kaa Gate
Activities
Game Drives, Sundowners, Star Gazing, Romantic Dinners, Photographic Safaris
Entry Fees
The park entry fee and the Botswana tourism levy per person per night are included in the accommodation rates but are subject to change. Currently the entry fee is BWP 20 per night per visitor and P 4 per night per vehicle. The tourism levy is BWP 10 per person per night.
Border Crossings
For entry into the park from Botswana or South Africa at any of the park entry gates, no immigration formalities are required.
For exiting the park to a different country from the one you came from on entry to the park, immigration formalities are required.
- Two Rivers, Botswana and South Africa
- Mata Mata, Namibia
