Kalahari

The Kalahari is known to be the largest sand sea worldwide covering parts of Namibia and nine other neighbouring countries. This landscape fascinates with its red elongated dunes standing in stark contrast to the green acacia trees and the yellow, churning grass. A variety of different animals have adapted to the Kalahari for example oryx, springbuck, ostriches, jackals, bat-eared foxes, spring hares and porcupines. Huge sociable weaver nests are characteristic for the area. Ancient camelthorn trees offer shade for men and animal. The Kalahari is often described as semi desert as its annual rainfalls are measured at 100 mm on average (in the Namib Desert its less 50 mm). In the southern parts of the Kalahari up to 300 mm annually are regularly measured. During the summer months November – February temperatures rise up to 45° C.

The San (Bushmen) are known to be the first inhabitants of southern Africa. They have always lived as hunter-gatherers from the richness of the Kalahari including its wildlife as well as floral diversity. They learned to adapt to the harsh environment and have a detailed knowledge of their environment and are outstanding trackers. Today about 40.000 San still live in Namibia, but less than 1000 are living traditionally. Many earn a living as farm workers or on guest farms. In the south-east one can still find Bushmen in their natural environment of the Kalahari, but they are living under the patronage of private farms like Intu Africa, Zelda or Sandune Guest farm, where guests can learn about the traditional way of life of the San.

Further accommodation facilities in the southern region are: Kalahari Anib Lodge and Farmhouse, Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge, Teufelskrallen Lodge, Bagatelle, Stampriet Historical Guesthouse and Auob Lodge.