By Peter Ruddle

The Kalahari is a vast semi-arid sandy savannah region in Southern Africa, covering much of Botswana, parts of Namibia and South Africa. It’s not a desert, as it receives more rainfall than true deserts, but it is still characterized by sparse vegetation and harsh conditions. But even this hard environment supports a variety of wildlife adapted to it. The Kalahari is also home to the San (Bushmen) people, who have lived off the land for over 20,000 years, practicing unique hunting and gathering traditions.

Boundaries of the Kalahari 

The boundaries of the Kalahari are not precisely defined, as it is more of a geographical and ecological region than a specific political or administrative area. The Kalahari encompasses much of Botswana, extending into parts of Namibia and South Africa. It is bounded roughly by the Orange River to the south, the Okavango River Delta to the northwest, and the Zambezi River to the northeast. The eastern boundary is less distinct, blending into the drier regions of Zimbabwe and eastern Botswana.

The Kalahari Desert proper, as referred to by hunters, is the sandy basin within this larger region. The boundaries of this basin are even harder to define as those of the general Kalahari, as the desert’s edges blend gradually into the surrounding savannah and scrubland. The Kalahari Desert is generally considered to cover much of central and south-western Botswana, extending into eastern Namibia and the Northern Cape province of South Africa.

Some even make a distinction between the “true” Kalahari and the “green” Kalahari, based on their ecological characteristics. The True Kalahari is characterized by extensive sand dunes, sandy plains and sparse vegetation adapted to arid conditions, while the Green Kalahari, as the name suggests, offers more diversity in plant and animal life. The Green Kalahari is located primarily in the northern reaches of South Africa.

Geology and Climate of the Kalahari

The Kalahari Desert exhibits unique geology and climate characteristics that make it unlike any other region on the planet. 

Geology

The Kalahari lies in an ancient sedimentary basin that has been forming for millions of years. It consists mainly of sand deposits, with layers of sedimentary rocks underneath. The predominant feature of the Kalahari’s landscape is its vast stretches of beautiful red and orange sand dunes and plains, formed by aeolian (wind-driven) processes over time. 

Beneath the surface sands, there are significant aquifers (underground water-bearing layers) that provide vital water sources for both wildlife and human populations in the region. 

The Kalahari also features expansive salt pans, such as the Makgadikgadi Pan in Botswana, which are remnants of ancient lakes that dried up thousands of years ago.

Climate

The Kalahari experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by low and erratic rainfall, with precipitation ranging from 100 to 500 ml (4 – 20 inches) per year. Rainfall is highly variable, with some years experiencing droughts while others see localized flooding.

Temperatures in the Kalahari can vary widely, with hot summers and cooler winters. During the summer months (October to March), temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), while winter nights can be chilly to cold, dropping below freezing in some areas.

History of the Kalahari

The history of the Kalahari is deeply intertwined with the history of the indigenous peoples who have inhabited the region for thousands of years, as well as with the exploration and colonization efforts of European powers in Southern Africa.

The Kalahari has been home to various indigenous groups, most notably the San people, also known as Bushmen. These hunter-gatherers have lived in the region for tens of thousands of years, adapting to the harsh desert environment and developing intricate knowledge of the land and its resources. Many San groups were pushed into Kalahari by supposedly “more advanced” European and other African societies, making the area the last stronghold of the hunter-gatherer culture that 100,000 years ago must have encompassed most of Africa. 

European exploration of the Kalahari began in the 19th century, driven by the search for trade routes, natural resources, and potential colonization. Explorers such as David Livingstone and missionaries like Robert Moffat ventured into the region. encountering and sometimes clashing with indigenous peoples. The Kalahari, with its sparse population and perceived lack of economic value, was initially of little interest to either the British or the Boers. However, the discovery of diamonds in nearby areas like Kimberley in the late 19th century sparked increased interest in the region.

In recent decades, the Kalahari has faced environmental challenges, including desertification, climate change, and habitat loss due to human activities such as agriculture and mining. Conservation efforts have been initiated to protect the unique biodiversity of the region and to support sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

Hunting in the Kalahari 

Hunting in the Kalahari is regulated and restricted, with laws, regulations, and practices differing between each of the three countries that have a part of the region within its borders. Hunting in Botswana is mostly concession-based, South African outfitters, for a variety of historical and legal reasons, rely on the game farm scheme, while in Namibia one finds various types of hunting lands, including game farms and ranches, communal hunting concessions, and concessions on state-owned land. 

For a hunting tourist that makes little difference, as they would in any case have to hunt with one of the licensed operators, who offer a similar set of services to their clients. However, legal aspects of trophy import may vary, and should be taken into consideration, especially if we’re talking about such “iconic species” as elephant, lion, and leopard.

Must-Hunt Animals of the Kalahari

• Gemsbok: These antelope are often more specifically referred to as the Kalahari Gemsbok and are iconic antelopes known for their striking black and white facial markings and long, straight horns. Well adapted to desert environments, Kalahari is perhaps the best place to see and pursue them in their natural habitat. 
• Springbok: These small, agile antelopes, known for their characteristic “pronking” behavior (where they leap into the air repeatedly) are found all over southern Africa. But the variety found in the Kalahari has a distinction of being specifically referred to as the Kalahari springbok, because they have notably bigger horns than common springbok.
• Cape eland: Judging from rock paintings, these large beasts that turn blue and grey with age and have massive dewlaps when mature, have long mesmerized the San people.  These big, fleshy antelopes walk long distances in search of food, which makes for a challenging pursuit across the red dunes of the Kalahari.
• Red hartebeest: Recognised as one of Africa’s fastest antelope, and best hunted at dawn or dusk, the red hartebeest is one of the must hunt animals of the Kalahari. 
• Kudu: You may not associate kudu with the desert, but Kalahari belongs to their natural range, and presents a great environment for walk and stalk type hunts.
• Blue wildebeest: Although not as common, the blue wildebeest is perfectly at home in the Kalahari desert. 

Other iconic African species have been successfully introduced to numerous game ranches and private reserves in the region. Some of the best sable, roan, tsessebe trophies come from the area, and even white rhino hunting is available in the Kalahari. Much of South Africa’s wild managed lion hunting takes place in the sands of the Kalahari, while Botswana and Namibia offer hunting for elephant and leopard. 

Some ranches provide artificial water points and supplementary feeding during exceptionally dry periods to ensure their trophy quality and sustained survival of their valuable assets. 

Tips for Hunting in the Kalahari

Hunting in the Kalahari requires skill, knowledge of the environment and respect for the wildlife. Many outfitters use Bushman trackers who are rated as one of the best trackers, if not the best, in the world. They are so in tune with nature it is unbelievable and for many hunters, it is a privilege to see them at work. They understand the terrain, vegetation, and weather patterns of the Kalahari. They can track animals and interpret signs such as animal spoor, droppings and other tell tail signs of an animal’s escape route from the broken vegetation and bent grass.

Patience is required when hunting in this region. Animals may be sparse, and stalking can take time. Remain still and observant. Look for vantage points, like high dunes or climb the odd tree to scan the area from a vantage point. Take time to scout the area before hunting to identify game trails and potential hiding spots, especially on windy or cold days when animals will seek cover or hide behind the dunes.

Animals in the Kalahari are drawn to water sources, especially during the dry season. Many outfitters position blinds over water holes, especially when it comes to artificial ones they create. This presents a good opportunity for bowhunters, as well as rifle hunters who for some reason are unable to follow the trackers for miles across hard terrain. 

Dress in layers so that you can peel off your clothes as the temperature increases. Make sure you have sturdy well-worn boots as you could be spending hours walking up and down the sandy dunes. Make sure to keep hydrated. 

A flat shooting rifle is preferable as you will most likely be taking long shots. Find a way to practice shooting at and over 300 meters or yards before a hunting safari in the Kalahari, as it is sometimes difficult to approach the animals due to the lack of cover. 

What Else to Do in the Kalahari?

For the non-hunters, as well as for hunters before or after the hunt, the Kalahari offers a few places that are worth visiting for their own right. 

• The Kalahari Red Dunes. The desert’s crimson sands and towering dunes are the primary draw for tourists, offering a rich tapestry of breath-taking beauty, with a plethora of adventure activities such as hiking, safari tours.
• The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Spanning both Botswana and South Africa, this protected haven harbors a pristine ecosystem shielded from human interference, providing sanctuary to several endemic species, including lions.
• Khomani Cultural Landscape. A small village that offers visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient culture and ancestral community of the Khomani San tribe.
• Tswalu Kalahari Reserve. This private reserve stands as a bastion of biodiversity, safeguarding 70 endemic mammal species and over 200 species of birds, as well as the cultural heritage of the San tribes.
• The Big Hole in Kimberley. A colossal excavation that bears witness to the frenzied diamond rush of the late 19th century and, along with Big Hole Museum, tells the story of diamond mining in the region.
•  Witsand Nature Reserve. Famous for its whistling white sands.
• The Eye of Kuruman. A natural fountain holding around 20 million litres of fresh water
• Orange River Wine Route. The vineyards are known to produce an exotic variety of white wines, dessert wines and semi-sweet wines.
• Dried Fruit and Date Farms. Boasts bountiful dried fruit and date farms amidst this historic landscape.
• Augrabies Falls National Park. The thunderous beauty of Augrabies Falls captivates all who behold it.

Why Hunt in the Kalahari?

The Kalahari soil offers only limited resources in terms of plant food and water, which is why the area did not look very attractive to the eye of the early European settlers. But thanks to that it largely avoided being turned into fields and pastures, so if you want to see Africa “as it was before Colonization”, the Kalahari should be on top of your travel list. 

At the same time, scarcity of resources makes it difficult to create such concentrations of animals as can be seen on game farms in some other parts of South Africa. The density of wildlife populations is typically lower, the size of concessions and territories greater, all making each hunt more challenging, more natural, and more rewarding.

A special treat with hunting in the Kalahari is following the game trails along with San people trackers. For these people hunting has been an uninterrupted way of life for thousands of years, providing them with food, clothing, and materials for tools. To be able to immerse in their ancient art of hunting is an experience no hunter can miss. Just listening to campfire stories, including early game rangers riding cattle instead of horses to conduct their patrols and lions eating wild melons to survive, will leave you in awe.

Wilderness, ancient traditions, unique environments and animals are the biggest attractions for hunting in the Kalahari. At present, BookYourHunt.com doesn’t have a special search category for “Kalahari” (write us in the comments if you think we should have it!), so look for words like “Kalahari”, “desert”, or “Bushmanland” in headlines and descriptions of the hunts in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana – or use the map view! 

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