A Conservation Area Managed Across Three Countries?

Botswana boasts numerous designated conservation areas, but tucked away in the bottom left (southwest) corner of the map is a park that often goes unnoticed.

It’s called the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Positioned along the borders of South Africa and Namibia, this park actually spans approximately 38,000 square kilometers across three countries—Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia.

As you may already know, ‘Transfrontier’ means ‘crossing borders’, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the park’s management across multiple countries. Established in 2002 as a conservation area under joint management between South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park aims to prevent poaching and preserve nature. Since then, travelers have been able to enjoy safaris while moving between these three countries without passports.

Contrasting South Africa and Botswana

Starting from the gates at the park’s southern tip (Twee Rivieren on the South African side and Tree River on the Botswana side), safari drives primarily follow the riverbanks (where water once flowed) extending northward, offering easy-to-navigate roads.

For off-road driving enthusiasts, there are also routes specifically designated for 4WD vehicles, ensuring plenty of excitement.

While campsites on the South African side offer shops and gas stations, providing a sense of human presence, those on the Botswana side lack even basic amenities like running water.

However, they offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the vast bushland in solitude, highlighting the contrasting experiences available within the park.