Urikaruus: A Serene Oasis in the Kgalagadi Desert

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

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Urikaruus Campground offers a unique desert experience, perfect for tourists seeking tranquility amidst stunning landscapes and wildlife. Nestled in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, it serves as a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

A brief summary to Urikaruus

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Local tips

Book your campsite in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Bring plenty of water and food supplies, as amenities are limited in the area.
Plan for early morning or late afternoon wildlife viewing for the best chances of spotting animals.
Pack sunscreen and a hat; the Kalahari sun can be intense during the day.
Don't miss the stunning sunsets; they provide perfect photo opportunities.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving, the most common route to Urikaruus is via the N14 highway. Start from Upington and take the N14 towards the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. After approximately 200 km, you will reach the entrance at Twee Rivieren. Once inside the park, continue on the main road for about 50 km until you reach the junction leading to Urikaruus. Follow the signage to your destination, which is about 10 km from the junction. Ensure that your vehicle is a 4x4, as some roads may be unpaved and can be challenging.
Public Transport

Public transport options are limited in the Kalahari region. However, you can take a bus from Upington to Twee Rivieren, which is the closest access point to Urikaruus. Once you arrive at Twee Rivieren, you will need to arrange for a shuttle or hire a 4x4 taxi to reach Urikaruus, as no public transport operates directly within the park. It's advisable to book the taxi in advance through local services. The cost for the bus ticket can range from ZAR 150-250, while the taxi fare to Urikaruus may vary depending on negotiation, typically around ZAR 400-600.
Self-guided Tour

For those seeking a more adventurous route, consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation to Urikaruus. Many tour operators in Upington offer packages that include game drives and accommodation. This option provides a unique experience and local insights into the Kalahari wildlife. Prices for these tours can range from ZAR 1,500 to ZAR 3,000 per person, depending on the services included.

Discover more about Urikaruus

Urikaruus is a hidden gem located within the vast expanse of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in South Africa. This tranquil campground is strategically positioned midway between Twee Rivieren and Mata Mata, making it an ideal stop for travelers exploring the magnificent desert landscapes. Visitors to Urikaruus can expect a unique blend of nature, wildlife, and stunning vistas, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Kgalagadi. The park is well-known for its diverse wildlife, including the iconic black-maned Kalahari lions and numerous antelope species, which can be observed in their natural habitat. The allure of Urikaruus lies not only in its wildlife but also in its breathtaking sunsets, where the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges and deep purples over the rolling sand dunes. The campground itself offers a variety of accommodation options, from basic campsites to more comfortable bungalows, catering to all types of travelers. Each site is equipped with essential amenities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene ambiance of the desert. The experience of stargazing at Urikaruus is unparalleled, as the clear night skies reveal a spectacular display of stars, unspoiled by city lights. The campground serves as a perfect base for adventurous excursions, including guided game drives and self-drive explorations through the park's scenic routes. Each visit to Urikaruus leaves guests with cherished memories of the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of this extraordinary desert region.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

!Xaus Lodge

18.1 km

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

Kalahari Tented Camp

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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

44.3 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

Kij Kij

51.7 km

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

Kgalagadi lifestyle Lodge

62.5 km

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

Kalahari Desert

87.8 km

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

Unmissable attractions to see

Kamqua Picnic Site @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

5.6 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

Auchterlonie Museum

27.6 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)

30.9 km

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

Kieliekrankie Wilderness Camp (SANParks)

Bitterpan Wilderness Camp

33.2 km

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paysage culturel des ǂKhomani

36.0 km

Discover the ancient wisdom and unique cultural heritage of the ǂKhomani San people in the heart of the Kalahari Desert.

Rooiputs Campsite 1

52.4 km

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

Tashebube, Rooiputs Lodge

52.7 km

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Twee Rivieren

57.6 km

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

Kalahari Game Lodge

63.8 km

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

Nossob Rest Camp @ Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

70.0 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

Kalahari Trails

89.4 km

Explore the breathtaking Kalahari Desert at Kalahari Trails, a nature lover's paradise filled with stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.

Essential places to dine

Kgalagadi Lion Den

57.6 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

62.5 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

Twee Rivieren Border Control (RSA)

58.0 km

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

TotalEnergies Kgalagadi Frontier Park Nossob