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The desert landscapes of South Africa are breathtaking environments to explore with their own unique wildlife species. This is the perfect experience for safari-goers looking for a more secluded and remote African adventure.
Why Should You Go on a Desert Safari in South Africa?
Arid Beauty
The stark beauty of South Africa’s desert landscapes is so different from the popular destinations like the Kruger National Park and Garden Route. During a desert safari, you’ll see unique flora and fauna and get to experience activities found nowhere else.
Unique Wildlife Encounters
South Africa’s deserts are home to a unique array of wildlife, such as black-maned lions, meerkats, oryx, springbok, and gemsbok. For birders, you’ll have the chance to spot various species of raptors and bustards.
Incredible Stargazing Opportunities
The desert offers travellers one of the best stargazing experiences in the world, thanks to its isolation, clear conditions, and lack of light pollution. Dramatic sunsets are also unforgettable sights to see.
Rich Cultural Experiences
The desert regions of South Africa are home to unique cultures and tribes. During a desert safari, engage with the rich cultural history of desert-dwelling communities and learn more about their way of life.
Peaceful Excursion
The desert areas of South Africa are some of the least visited safari destinations in the country, making a desert safari perfect for those seeking tranquillity and solitude.
Best Destinations for Desert Safaris in South Africa
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The red dunes that make up this destination are mesmerising! The Kgalagadi features herds of gemsbok, springbok, eland, and blue wildebeest, with black-maned lions and leopards not far behind. Here, take to the 4×4 trails, go on birdwatching safaris and game drives, and embark on hiking adventures.
Tankwa Karoo National Park
Located in the arid Karoo region, this park is known for its striking landscapes and vast open skies. Tankwa’s clear skies and lack of light pollution make it one of the best places in South Africa for stargazing.
While on game drives, you can spot a variety of desert-adapted wildlife, including gemsbok, springbok, and Cape mountain zebra.
Ai-/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
A remote park along the Orange River with rugged terrain and unique desert plants, Richtersveld is home to jackals, zebras, and dramatic scenery, including the vast Fish River Canyon.
Explore the park’s challenging 4×4 trails, go on hikes through the wilderness, and learn about the local Nama people and their traditional way of life.
Namaqualand
Extending over the west coast of South Africa, Namaqualand is famous for its seasonal wildflower blooms in desert areas. More than 1,000 of Namaqualand’s over 3,000 plant species are endemic to this region.
Mammals have adapted to the tough conditions here; you can spot gemsbok, springbok, red hartebeest, klipspringer, aardvark, baboon, steenbok, duiker, porcupine, black-backed jackal, and leopard during game drives.
Augrabies Falls National Park
The juxtaposition of desert scenery with dramatic waterfalls is truly a sight to behold! Augrabies is home to the Augrabies Falls, which plunges 56 metres into the incredible gorge below, offering spectacular viewpoints for photography.
Visitors to this park can also take on the mountain biking routes, go on hikes, see the wildlife during game drives, and enjoy birdwatching safaris.
5 Tips for a Desert Safari in South Africa
1. Go During the Autumn/Winter
Book your South African safari in the cooler months, from April to September. This time of the year offers travellers a more comfortable climate for exploration.
2. Dress in Layers
Bring lightweight clothing in safari colours, as well as some warm layers. Temperatures can fluctuate quickly in the desert.
3. Keep a Water Bottle With You
Carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated, as desert environments can be extremely dehydrating.
4. Knowledgeable Guides
Opt for knowledgeable guides who know the desert areas well, as these regions are very remote. Additionally, experts in the area will teach you about the environment and species that call it home. When you book with Discover Africa, we’ll ensure that your desert safari is conducted by experts.
5. Bring a Camera
The desert environments of South Africa provide amazing opportunities for a photographic safari. Capture the unique desert light and landscapes at sunrise or sunset. We recommend using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes.
