KTF Wilderness Trail

On this page I am only providing information as I have not actually visited the Wilderness Trail.

Background

Deep in the heart of Botswana's side of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Parksomething very special is available to true lovers of the wilderness - a trail through the area that is unchanged from the days of our forefathers. For some 257km of track, (starting 55km north of the Nossob Camp) on which only 4x4 vehicles may travel, those who wish to experience the solitude of the wilderness will find only minimal signs of human intervention but must observe a few basic rules. Wilderness trail users are trusted to use good bush practices and to leave the area unspoilt for those who follow. This is no "Camel Trophy" route, although 4x4 vehicles are essential. The trail is lightly defined and rough, sometimes passing through areas of tall grass and over ridges and dunes of soft sand. The route links together various pans, some plain and some spectacular. The normal Kalahari wildlife may be seen along the trail and lions may explore camps at night. The trail must be booked and only one group, of not less than two and not more than five 4x4 vehicles, is allowed to start the trail on any given day to ensure exclusivity.

The cost of the trail is BWP200.00 per person per night (children 1/2 price). These costs do not include the night before and after elsewhere.

Conditions governing the use of the trail:

Advance booking essential.
All relevant fees for full period of stay within the park are payable before starting the trail.
Check-in at Two Rivers essential for sfate tracking.
Time allocated for the trail is 3 days, 2 nights - you may not take a shorter or longer time.
Trail to be travelled anti-clockwise only, starting at Polentswa (turnoff from Nossob Road at Grootbrak) and finishing north of Lijersdraai on the Nossob Road..
It is recommended that you spend the night before and the night after the trail elsewhere in the park, for which separate bookings must be made.
Remember that you are solely responsible for your own safety.
You must be fully self-contained for the trip with all water, food, fuel, vehicle fluids and tools, and firewood, spade and spare tyres and/or repair kit.
The trail is about 257kms long and an average of 20km/h should be allowed for.
Vehicles: 4x4 essential, maximum 3500kg unladen, minimum of two and maximum of five vehicles. No trailers are permitted.
The campsites are Sesatswe for the first night and Lang Rambuka for the second night. No other area must be used. Note that sleeping outside without a tent is extremely dangerous - keep tent flaps zipped up.
The group leader is responsible for the actions and conduct of his group and is trusted to observe the few basic bush rules to ensure that the trail will remain unspoilt for those who follow.
Rule #1 - Stick to the track as indicated on the map supplied - DO NOT drive off the track.
Rule #2 - Take special care not to start bush fires.
Rule #3 - Campfires should be lit on previously used sites - slabs and ash pits will be provided.
Rule #4 - Dig holes of at least 40cm deep for toilet purposes and BURN toilet paper.
Rule #5 - Leave not litter whatsoever, not even cigarette butts. Do not bury litter as animals dig it up.
Rule #6 - Cause no harm or harassment to wildlife.
Any litter left by previous users should be collected and disposed of in a proper way. Any other obvious breach of rules should be reported and the culprits will be traced and the appropriate actions will be taken against them.