Four Wheel Driving in the Kalahari
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
If you're planning a holiday to southern Africa, chances are that you'll be including the Kalahari Desert in your travel itinerary. This huge, arid and semi-sandy desert stretches for a whopping 900,000 sq km, so it's best to explore it by arranging cheap car hire. Not just any vehicle hire will do, though; to really make the most of your adventure, it's best to utilise a four wheel drive vehicle.
Large numbers of visitors to Botswana, Namibia and South Africa, which the Kalahari covers large parts of, enquire about the possibility of hiring their own 4x4 vehicles. Thankfully, this is entirely possible and relatively straightforward to arrange. If you're staying at a lodge or camp within the desert, it's likely that they'll offer a vehicle hire service, which will allow you to explore large parts of this most fascinating of African landscapes.
If you're put off by thoughts of driving through a sparse, sandy desert, think again. The Kalahari is classed as a 'semi-desert'; because of the rainy season, it is able to support a relative abundance of plant and animal life. It even accommodates its own river, the Okavango, and its delta region in the Kalahari's north-west is a wildlife lover's paradise. During your exploration on four wheels, you can expect to see, with bit of luck, elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards and cheetahs.
The wildlife and scenery aren't the Kalahari's only draws, however. The desert is famous for its beautiful sunsets, with the huge setting sun casting a beautiful light over the surrounding landscape. What better way to see this than from your own 4x4 vehicle? You'll have freedom to roam wherever you like and to position you and your travel companions at the best possible vantage point.
It goes without saying that a sojourn into the Kalahari requires proper planning. If you're planning to drive outside of South Africa and into Namibia, for example, you need to familiarise yourself with the border requirements. Another logistical consideration is to avoid travelling through Botswana at night; it's generally safer to stay somewhere for the evening before continuing your journey the following morning.
Vehicle outlets will recommend that you utilise some form of GPS system; something that's crucial if you get lost. In such a barren and open landscape, it can be difficult to ascertain distances, so it's sensible to keep track of how far you've headed. Drawing up a detailed route plan also comes highly recommended.
One of the Kalahari's driving highlights is the approach to the remote village of Riemvasmaak. While the road is pretty bumpy, this wilderness surrounded by mountains has an otherworldly appearance. Be warned though, you may get some funny looks as you roll up in your four wheel drive; the main mode of transport here is the humble donkey cart.
The Kalahari represents the ultimate adventure driving holiday destination. With proper planning and a slice of luck, you can look forward to an expedition like no other.
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http://www.antrimguardian.co.uk/articles/news/18427/walking-on-thin-ice/
http://www.antrimguardian.co.uk/articles/features/16743/what-makes-vietnam-and-cambodia-travel-so-appealing/
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