Kgalagadi Transfontier Park never seizes to surprise. This was the first road outing for us since we started spending more time in South Africa. As our expedition vehicle was not yet ready, Malini and I simply added a fridge-freezer to our daily cruiser, added some ammo boxes to keep dry supplies safe, and headed north. A fun set of self-catering chalets booked for two weeks in Twee Rivieren, the Auob and Nossob valleys, and the dunes.

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The rains had arrived well in time before Christmas. By January, The southern Kalahari presented itself in a lush, green dress, full of flowers, butterflies, and plenty of young wildlife.

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Hot days and warm nights, with occasional thunderstorms and downpours set the stage for some spectacular observations. A personal highlight was again Polentswa water hole in the northern Nossob valley. I know, it takes a lot of patience. But spend a full morning there, then head over to Lijersdraai picnic site for a break and lunch during the hours with the harshest light, and return to position the vehicle again at Polentswa. Hundreds and hundreds of sandgrouse, thousands of doves, and in between a family of Lanner falcons with the mature individuals proficient at catching their prey on the wing, while the youngsters would continue to learn their lessons. All observed by ever-present bateleur eagles, tawny eagles, secretary birds, and numerous vultures.

 

While I write these lines, meteorological stations across the central Pacific Ocean record the unfolding of a massive El Niño climate event. After the severe flooding much of southern Africa experienced in the past few months, this will mean that we are heading for very dry and above average temperature conditions from now on until El Niño eventually fades.

 

 The next two visits to this stunning part of the Kalahari have already been planned for later this year and early 2027.

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I hope you enjoy what you find here!