ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape: Echoes of the Kalahari

Explore the ancient culture and unique heritage of the ǂKhomani San people in South Africa's breathtaking Kalahari desert landscape.

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Botswana
Kalahari Desert
paysage culturel des ǂKhomani

Discover the ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape, a vast expanse within the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park, where the ancient ǂKhomani San people have thrived for millennia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects their unique culture, ethnobotanical knowledge, and deep connection to the harsh desert environment.

A brief summary to paysage culturel des ǂKhomani

Local tips

Visit during the cooler months (April to September) for the most comfortable weather.
Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the local culture and ecosystems.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as some areas can be quite exposed.
Respect the local customs and traditions of the ǂKhomani San people during your visit.

Getting There

Car

If you are traveling by car within Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, start from the Kgalagadi Park Main Camp. Head southwest on the main road towards the Botswana border. Follow the signs for the Nossob River Road, which is well-marked. Continue along this route for approximately 60 kilometers until you reach the border crossing into South Africa. Ensure you have your passport and any necessary documentation ready for a smooth crossing. Once you enter South Africa, continue straight for another 10 kilometers until you reach the landscape of ǂKhomani, which is a recognized area of cultural significance. Park entry fees are applicable.
Public Transport

Public transportation options directly into the ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape are limited. However, you can take a bus from Gaborone to Upington, South Africa. From Upington, you will need to hire a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Once within the park, you can use local guides or ranger services to help you reach the ǂKhomani landscape. Be prepared for possible additional costs for the taxi and guide services. Expect to pay upwards of R500 for a taxi from Upington to the park.

Discover more about paysage culturel des ǂKhomani

The ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017, lies within the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, bordering Botswana and Namibia. This expansive area, coinciding with the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park, showcases evidence of human occupation dating back to the Stone Age. The landscape is intrinsically linked to the culture of the ǂKhomani San people, one of the last indigenous communities in South Africa, who were once nomadic. The ǂKhomani San developed unique survival strategies to cope with the Kalahari's harsh conditions, including an extensive knowledge of ethnobotany, cultural practices, and a worldview deeply connected to the geographical features of their environment. The landscape bears witness to their traditional way of life, shaped over thousands of years, and reflects their cultural links to the land. Visitors can explore this remarkable area and learn about the ǂKhomani San's history, migration patterns, livelihoods, and cultural memory. The landscape itself, with its red dunes and arid terrain, tells a story of adaptation and resilience. An Interpretative Centre at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp offers insights into the cultural and natural heritage of the park, with narratives from local ǂKhomani communities. Guided tours led by ǂKhomani guides provide a deeper understanding of their customs, folklore, and the wisdom of this ancient tribe.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kalahari Tented Camp

37.4 km

Discover the magic of the Kalahari Desert at Kalahari Tented Camp, where adventure meets tranquility in a stunning natural setting.

Mata-Mata Rest Camp @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

38.6 km

Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park at Mata-Mata Rest Camp, an unforgettable lodging experience in nature.

Mata-Mata Rest Camp @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

!Xaus Lodge

52.8 km

!Xaus Lodge: A unique retreat in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, offering stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and an immersive desert experience.

Kalahari Desert

72.9 km

Explore the stunning Kalahari Desert, a unique ecosystem filled with vibrant wildlife, captivating landscapes, and rich cultural experiences in Southern Africa.

Kij Kij

74.0 km

Explore Kij Kij, a serene watering hole in South Africa, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable wildlife experiences for nature lovers.

Gharagab Wilderness Camp

77.4 km

Discover the untouched wilderness of Kgalagadi at Gharagab Wilderness Camp, where adventure and tranquility meet in the heart of nature.

Kgalagadi lifestyle Lodge

95.9 km

Experience the Kalahari: Luxurious lodge near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park with diverse activities, dining, and comfortable accommodations.

Unmissable attractions to see

Bitterpan Wilderness Camp

4.3 km

Experience the wild allure of Bitterpan Wilderness Camp in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a serene oasis for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Urikaruus

36.0 km

Discover the serene beauty of Urikaruus Campground in the Kgalagadi Desert, where nature and adventure await every traveler.

Nossob Rest Camp @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

37.0 km

Experience thrilling predator sightings and serene Kalahari nights at Nossob Rest Camp in the heart of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Nossob Rest Camp @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Kamqua Picnic Site @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

37.4 km

Discover the serene Kamqua Picnic Site in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, where stunning landscapes and rich wildlife create an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Kamqua Picnic Site @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Kalahari Game Lodge

51.7 km

Discover the enchanting wildlife and serene landscapes at Kalahari Game Lodge, Namibia's ultimate retreat for nature lovers and adventurers.

Auchterlonie Museum

57.9 km

Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of South Africa at the Auchterlonie Museum, a captivating tourist attraction for all ages.

Kieliekrankie Wilderness Camp (SANParks)

59.3 km

Experience the untamed beauty of the Kalahari at Kieliekrankie Wilderness Camp, a serene retreat in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Kieliekrankie Wilderness Camp (SANParks)

Lijersdraai Picnic Site @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

73.5 km

Experience the tranquility of Lijersdraai Picnic Site in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, where nature's beauty invites relaxation and exploration.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

77.0 km

Explore the untamed beauty of the Kalahari: vast landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable safari experiences in Botswana and South Africa.

Rooiputs Campsite 1

80.0 km

Experience unfenced wilderness camping in Botswana's Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. A unique desert adventure awaits!

Tashebube, Rooiputs Lodge

80.1 km

Experience the raw beauty of the Kalahari at Rooiputs Lodge, where luxury meets untamed wilderness in Botswana's Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Twee Rivieren

90.4 km

Experience the breathtaking wilderness of Twee Rivieren, the gateway to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, where nature and adventure await.

Essential places to dine

Kgalagadi Lion Den

90.5 km

Discover unique flavors at Kgalagadi Lion Den, the only restaurant in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park offering an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by nature.

Black Mane Butcher & Grill

95.9 km

Experience authentic South African cuisine at Black Mane Butcher & Grill in Askham – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

TotalEnergies Kgalagadi Frontier Park Nossob

37.1 km

Explore the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park with convenience and comfort at TotalEnergies Kgalagadi Frontier Park Nossob, your perfect travel pit stop.

Twee Rivieren Border Control (RSA)

90.8 km

Discover the gateway to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park at Twee Rivieren Border Control, where adventure awaits amidst stunning Kalahari landscapes.

Grootkolk

91.5 km

Discover the tranquility of Grootkolk in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, where luxury meets the wild in a stunning African setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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