Situated in the Northern Cape, 250km from Upington lies one of our top destinations for seniors: the beautiful land of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which is engulfed by the red sand and dunes of the Kalahari Desert. This African Safari should not be daunting for any senior traveler. Although getting a reservation is difficult, careful planning and timing are critical. Seniors with internet access, who can navigate websites or send email requests, may check accommodation availability. There are numerous camps situated along or between the Auob and Nossob dry riverbeds, which border the South African-administered side of the park.
Comfortable Safari Accommodation For Seniors
Traditional camps such as Tweerivieren, Mata Mata, and Nossob, as well as the newer tented camps like Kieliekrankie, Kalahari Tented Camp, or Urikaruus, are geared for senior citizens. The accommodation is comfortable, with air-conditioned or fanned rooms and comfortable beds, including linen and towels.
There are basic shop facilities at the main camps and a restaurant at Tweerivieren, but I would recommend being self-sufficient in the cooking department. The camps do, however, supply all kitchen and fridge facilities, so a cooler-box of supplies will suffice.
Navigating the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Navigating the Kgalagadi Transfrontier park is relatively straightforward, though I suggest traveling in an SUV with high clearance, preferably equipped with 4×4 or diff-lock. Seniors may be prone to some aches and pains, but a comfortable vehicle should help alleviate the effects of any corrugations encountered along the journey. The driving on this 4×4 wildlife safari is slow and dusty, but the encounters will be worth the effort. Unlike some of our other wildlife parks, the distances between camps are vast, and accommodation is limited. This alleviates the problem of bearing overcrowded wildlife sightings – notably the big cat kills.
Nothing is better than sitting on the stoep, braai lit, refreshment in hand, listening to the bark of the gecko, a jackal’s cry, or a lion’s roar while reminiscing on the day’s encounters. This African safari destination is number one on our Top Destinations for Seniors list – a true must for any senior traveler.
