DAY 8 NOSSOB
Look for lions
Some of the best waterholes in the Kgalagadi are on the three short loop roads off the main route near Mata-Mata. Names like Dalkeith, Veertiende Boorgat and Dertiende Boorgat will strike a chord with seasoned Kgalagadi visitors and wildlife photographers. Drive each of the loops and visit all the waterholes. The waterholes are in the Auob riverbed, with red dunes in the background. You’ll pass open grass fields with camel thorn trees where you might see springbok, gemsbok, wildebeest and giraffe. In 1991, eight giraffes were brought here from Etosha; now there are about 60 in the Kgalagadi. After the Kamqua waterhole, turn onto the upper dune road, which connects the Auob River road to the Nossob River road. You won’t see a lot of animals here save for the odd gemsbok or ostrich, but it’s a scenic road that will take you into the Kalahari proper. When you get to the Nossob road, head to the Dikbaardskolk picnic site where you can braai a chop or three. Keep an eye on the surrounding landscape – a herd of springbok might wander down the riverbed or some meerkat might be scurrying about looking for food. From Dikbaardskolk, you’ll head even further into the emptiness, destination Nossob rest camp. Nossob is in a faraway corner of the park, but despite its remote location, it’s fully booked most of the time. Why? Nossob is lion country. The camp gates are closed 24/7 because those photos you’ve seen of lions lounging around in the road are often taken very close to camp. Once you’ve settled in, visit the camp hide that looks out over the dry Nossob riverbed. Listen. As soon as the sun starts setting, the lions will start roaring…
ACCOMMODATION INFO
Rates: Camping from R305 for two people, plus R88 per additional adult and R44 per child (max six per stand). “Luxury” campsite with private ablution facilities from R600 per night for two people, plus R150 per additional adult and R75 per child (max six per stand). Twin-sleeper selfcatering units from R1 065 per night; from R2 805 per night for a four-sleeper unit with a river view. Contact: 054 561 0903
DAY 9