4 minute read
Explore the Kalahari on foot
Ondili Lodges
Feet in the pool, ice-cold drink in hand while relaxing at your own private sleep-out overlooking the magical Kalahari after a day of exploring its red dune landscape. Does Africa get better than this?
Ondili’s Trans Kalahari Walk is the best way to explore the other Namibian desert – the Kalahari. Yes, the first thought that probably pops into your head is: “Deserts are all the same, why bother with the Kalahari when its older cousin, the Namib – famous for its much-hyped Deadvlei – is only about 200 km away?” But that would be a regrettable mistake. While the Namib with its giant sand dunes and barren gravel plains seems totally devoid of life, the Kalahari is teeming with vegetation and a wide variety of fauna, large and small.
The semi-arid, sandy savannah of the western Kalahari is special because it does not conform to often misinformed views of what a desert should look like and is often overlooked when planning a trip to Namibia. Do not be fooled, as a visit to this unique biome is a valuable addition to your itinerary. As with most travel experiences, putting your feet on the ground and being able to immerse yourself in your environment ensures a far more enriching experience than simply sitting in a vehicle and appreciating the surroundings with your eyes. The Trans Kalahari Walk is the best way to become intimately acquainted with the Kalahari’s interesting wildlife, as well as the plants and trees that form the backdrop of the area.
An early start is rewarded with a spectacular sunrise atop a dune, coffee in hand. At first light, the veld comes to life. Watch the scurrying ground squirrels as they leave their nests in search of food. Stop at one of the sociable weaver nests and watch these hard-working little birds set about in a flurry of activity, gathering more grass as they continue the building process of their mass housing complex. The heavy nest is supported by the strength of a thick branch of one of the iconic old acacia trees that dot the landscape. Your experienced guide will point out the springbok, giraffe and gemsbok as they go about their business, undisturbed by the hiking boots silently hitting the ground.
The walk is not strenuous, as there are plenty of stops where the guide is eager to share his ample knowledge of the veld. He explains the traditional uses of a shepherd’s tree or gives some interesting facts about the area and the wildlife.
While the hike takes up most of the day, lengthy breaks for a bush breakfast and a delicious lunch on a specially built deck with a thatched roof serve to revitalise the energy levels.
The cherry on top of an adventurous day is arriving at the exclusive dunes camp. Built against a dune, it consists of two cosy chalets with luxurious finishings and all the necessary amenities. The shaded lapa, complete with a pool, is the perfect way to cool down and round off the day’s activities. Although the Kalahari is derived from the Tswana word Kgala, meaning “the great thirst”, there is no fear of going thirsty as a refreshing gin and tonic or an icecold drink of your choice make for an unforgettable sunset. After a meal enjoyed under the stars, a well-deserved rest is all that remains.
