Zoutpanputs Game Lodge - Derived from the Tswana word Kgala, meaning “the great thirst”, or Kgalagadi, meaning “a waterless place”, the Kalahari has vast areas covered by red sand without any permanent surface water.
The Kalahari Desert (in Afrikaans: Kalahari-woestyn) is a large semi-arid sandy savannah in southern Africa extending 900,000 square kilometres (350,000 sq mi), covering much of Botswana, parts of Namibia (previously South West Africa), and South Africa. A semi-desert, with huge tracts of excellent grazing after good rains, the Kalahari supports more animals and plants than a true desert. The Kalahari is not officially regarded as a desert due to the precipitation it receives.
The Kalahari is probably most famous for it’s stunning red sand dunes. These dunes are covered with a relative abundance of vegetation, including grass tussocks, shrubs, and deciduous trees that have evolved to make use of the area’s infrequent precipitation and wild swings in temperature. In summer, the heat can top 45 degrees Celsius (115 degrees Fahrenheit); on winter nights, lows can drop to -15 degrees Celsius (seven degrees Fahrenheit).
In the wetter north and east, where open woodlands exist, the area is made up mainly of a type of acacia known as the camelthorn tree. Endemic to the Kalahari, the camelthorn is a crucial part of the desert ecosystem, manufacturing nutrients that encourage other plants to grow around its base and providing shade for animals. Zoutpanputs Game Lodge is set around a beautiful example of the camelthorn tree.
The natural trees, shrubs and fauna of the Kalahari offer the wildlife lover a sight seeing paradise with large varieties of birds and mammals living in their natural habitat.
Zoutpanputs offers guests viewing hides to observe nature. For those wanting to explore further, 4×4 game drives can be arranged. Many visitors have arrived at Zoutpanputs not only in 4×4 vehicles but also touring bikes.
Zoutpanputs Game Lodge guests are accommodated in bungalows built around a stunning old camelthorn tree at the foot of a red Kalahari dune. Lodging is provided for a maximum of 14 people in three bungalows. A separate entertainment area has a full kitchen, including a gas stove, microwave oven, and a fridge/freezer for self-catering.
Zoutpanputs Game Lodge offers visitors a ‘back to nature’ environment to enjoy the wonderful beauty of the Kalahari. With the vast expanse of salt pans and sand dunes on your doorstep, the natural habitat offers guests a truly memorable experience. Using Zoutpanputs as your base there are a variety of activities on offer.
Hunting - The keen hunter will have the time of his life with a selection of game available. It includes Springbok, Oryx (Gemsbok), Blue wildebeest (gnu), Sable bulls an Red hartebeest.
Bow Hunting - The farm also caters to bow hunting with three hides, all within 20 meters of water. A hide accommodates two people. Hunting is seasonal and bookings are essential, preferably well in advance. Prices are on request and can vary according to availability.
Birdwatching - More than 50 bird species have been identified at Zoutpanputs. The Kalahari is a birder’s delight and the farm is no exception. The inquisitive Crimson-breasted Shrike is sure to surprise you with your early morning coffee. Keep a look out for the Namaqua Sandgrouse (Kelkiewyn), the Lilac-breasted Roller (troupant), Kori Bustard (Gompou), Vultures, and the very active Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill (Neushoringvoël) Photography- The many moods of nature offer special opportunities for photographers in this vast land. The interesting spoor of a millipede in the sand, a Lilac Breasted Roller (troupant) in flight, oryx cooling themselves on a dune, or the setting sun painting the landscape in many hues of pink and blue are all challenging in their simplicity.
A hike to the top of a dune is a must for never-ending views of the landscape, especially at dawn and dusk.
- If cancelling 7 days before arrival, forfeit 100% of the booking total.
- If cancelling 14 days before arrival, forfeit 100% of the deposit.
- If cancelling 21 days before arrival, forfeit 50% of the deposit.
- If cancelling 30 days before arrival, forfeit 25% of the deposit.
