Twee Rivieren Camping and The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

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This post was crafted with care and occasional typos by Colleen (and not AI)

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park was the final reserve on our Africa overland tour and we’d been looking forward to our visit. Situated in the heart of the Kalahari desert (I’m a sucker for deserts) the park stretches across two countries, Botswana and South Africa. We chose to stay on the South African side at Twee Rivieren.

As one of the main entry points to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Twee Rivieren serves as the perfect base for exploring one of Africa’s more remote wilderness areas. We spent two nights here, and it quickly became one of our favourite stops. Read on to discover why Twee Rivieren might just be the ideal choice for your next adventure.

Where Is Twee Rivieren?

Twee Rivieren, means Two Rivers in Afrikaans, is located at the southern entrance of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park; a unique conservation area that spans across South Africa and Botswana. Covering over 3.6 million hectares.  The vast protected wilderness allows wildlife to roam freely without fences between the two countries.

You’ll find Twee Rivieren on the South African side, about 260 km from Upington, the nearest major town. The camp is accessible via a well-maintained tarred road, making it an easy journey whether you’re self-driving or joining an organised tour.

At this border region, South Africa shares its entry point with Botswana’s Two Rivers entry, giving you the rare opportunity to explore both countries within the one park.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Border At Twee Rivieren

One of the unique features of staying at Twee Rivieren is its location at the border between South Africa and Botswana. The park’s design allows you to cross between the two countries, with just a simple formality at the entrance gate.

As with all our border crossings during our overland Africa tour, we found this one straightforward, with the crew on hand we just followed their lead. However, it’s fair to say the officers at the border are friendly and accustomed to dealing with international visitors. Just remember, this is an international border, so passports are essential.

Top Tip : South Africa shares the Twee Rivieren border area with Botswana; their entry point is called Two Rivers.

Why Choose Twee Rivieren As Your Base For Kgalagadi

To be honest, we didn’t choose Twee Rivieren; it was part of our tour and until we started our journey from Victoria Falls, it was just a name on the map. But now, having experienced it, we know it’s so much more!

Twee Rivieren is a great option for anyone wanting to explore the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, especially if it’s your first visit. The camp offers great facilities, including a petrol station, a shop, a restaurant, and even a swimming pool; though it was a tad chilly for us in winter! The camp is also fenced, which is reassuring if you’re new to camping in the wild or have concerns about nighttime visitors.

For us, Twee Rivieren struck a balance between comfort and adventure. When we first arrived, the campsite seemed less appealing than some we’d stayed in, but once settled, we realised there were few other visitors and plenty of facilities to make our stay enjoyable. The camp even has a washing machine, so we all took the opportunity to do every last piece of laundry!

We also appreciated the on-site shop and loved the Interpretation Centre. And the camp is right next to the park entrance, so no long early drives for us!  

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast wilderness area unlike any other. Here, you’ll find red sand dunes, wide-open plains, and abundant wildlife. Kgalagadi offers a quieter and less crowded safari experience than Chobe or Kruger, and while Etosha’s open plains have a similar scale, the colours of the Kgalagadi truly won me over.

You won’t find elephants, hippos, or crocodiles here, nor the large herds common in other parks. Instead, you’ll be rewarded with sightings of black-maned lions, cheetahs, many beautiful birds and several antelope species.

Kgalagadi is very different from the other parks we visited, but, just like Chobe, it became a special place for us.

What Wildlife Can You Expect To See From Twee Rivieren?

During our stay we spotted black-maned lions, springbok, oryx, and even witnessed a cheetah hunt unfold right in front of us! We also encountered a variety of bird species, a lone giraffe, and had our first sighting of meerkats; everyone loved the meerkats!

We ventured out on game drives in the early mornings and late afternoons when the wildlife is most active. Being in our overland bus, which sits higher than a standard car, we had the best 360-degree views too. Don’t expect large herds and remember that sightings are never guaranteed, but thrill of spotting animals in this vast untamed environment never gets old!

Weston, our guide, was invaluable throughout our journey, and Kgalagadi was no exception. At one point, he sped up the bus and took us over a hill after catching sight of a giraffe that was so well-camouflaged we could barely see it; until it graciously moved to give us a better view!

The Kalahari is perfect for patient wildlife enthusiasts and photographers who are willing to take their time and appreciate the subtle beauty of this landscape. Despite the harsh conditions, there is an abundance of wildlife to discover if you’re willing to look closely.

Twee Rivieren Interpretation Centre

I’d read about this little centre before we arrived and knew I’d want to visit. It’s not large, but you could easily spend 30 minutes or more getting lost in the stories and history of this land and its people, who have called it home for thousands of years.

The sign invites you to Take a walk with the ǂKhomani. The centre pays homage to the people of the Southern Kalahari, sharing their stories and offering a glimpse into their lives in this harsh yet beautiful environment. If you’re staying at the camp, it’s well worth your time to visit. The entry is free, and the exhibits, photographs, and stories are heartwarming.

You can find more about the centre in this SANParks Guide.

The People of the Kgalagadi

The Kalahari has been home to the Bushmen for thousands of years, and the Interpretation Centre does a wonderful job of telling their story. In many ways, their history mirrors that of Native American tribes or the indigenous peoples of Australia, marked by displacement, cultural loss, and resilience.

Through exhibits, you’ll learn about the dark days of colonial Africa and how, today, we are beginning to rediscover and respect their skills and ancient knowledge. The Bushmen of the Kgalagadi have a unique way of life, and their story is a powerful reminder of the value of their traditions and wisdom.

Take the time to visit the centre, and you’ll be moved by the resilience of these people and inspired by their ability to thrive in such a challenging environment.

Twee Rivieren Camping and Accommodation

Before we left home for our journey from Victoria Falls to Cape Town, we thought that camping might be too much for us, and we’d likely need to upgrade to campsite accommodation. In the end, we found our little tent surprisingly comfortable, but Twee Rivieren is one place where an upgrade is possible. 

Twee Rivieren Camping

We chose to camp at Twee Rivieren. Luckily for us, our tents were always ready upon arrival, as part of our serviced overland tour. However, there is ample space for 4×4 vehicles and traditional campers.

The campsite is fairly basic but very clean, with easy access to shared facilities such as bathrooms, hot showers, and a small kitchen area. Additional amenities include washing machines (woohoo!) and designated areas for barbecues and washing up.

While some of campsites on our journey, like Spitzkoppe, have offered stunning views, Twee Rivieren made up for it with its facilities. Reservations can be made via the South African National Park website.

Top Tip : Remember if you’re camping in winter that the nights can be very cold, so be sure to pack something warm!

Twee Rivieren Accommodation

If you prefer a bit more comfort or are traveling in a small group, you might consider staying in one of the camp chalets. These provide simple but comfortable accommodation, complete with private bathrooms and basic kitchen facilities.

Reservations can be made through the SANParks website. For those looking to move on from Twee Rivieren and seeking something very special, consider the luxury Xaus Lodge between Mata-Mata and Twee Rivieren.

What Are the Costs of Staying at Twee Rivieren?

Prices can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the SANParks website for the most up-to-date rates.

How Do I Make Reservations for Camping or Lodging?

The easiest way to make a reservations is through the SANParks website. It’s wise to book well in advance, especially during the peak season (May to September), as Twee Rivieren is a popular choice for visitors to the Kgalagadi. 

Top Tip : If you plan to continue exploring the park, keep in mind that options are limited and tend to fill up quickly; so start planning early!

Twee Rivieren Facilities

Twee Rivieren is the largest rest camp and administrative base for the Kgalagadi, and it offers all the essential amenities needed for a comfortable stay. P.S did we mention the washing machine already?

Want The Thrill of a 4 X 4 Tour But In A Group?

If you love the idea of the 4 x 4 adventure but would prefer to travel as part of a small group then we found the perfect tour for you!

Best Time To Visit Kgalagadi

Weather-wise the best time to visit the park is during the African Winter between May and September. We visited in June and if you’re visiting then, remember to take warm clothes and the temperature does drop at night!

Dry Season (May to September)

Shoulder Season (March to April and October to November):

Green Season (December to February):

Peak Season is July and August, especially for both home-grown and international tourists.  Wildlife viewing is excellent, the weather is moderate and it’s school holidays. If you’re planning a trip during this period, it’s essential to book well in advance.

You can track the weekly weather forecast on the SANParks website.

Are Guided Safaris Available From Twee Rivieren?

Most visitors arrive at Twee Rivieren as part of a tour or self-driving, but if you prefer a guided safari, that option is available too.

Both morning and sunset guided game drives are offered at Twee Rivieren, as well as at Nossob, Mata-Mata and the Kalahari Tented Camp. According to the official website, these guided tours are available for a minimum of two adults, subject to the availability of staff.

It’s best to contact the park once you’ve made your booking or enquire at reception upon arrival. Please note that guided tours are not available for children under the age of six.

Is Camping At Twee Rivieren Safe?

Safety is a common concern for visitors, but we found Twee Rivieren to be very safe. The camp is fenced, providing a barrier against large predators and giving you peace of mind while you sleep.

However, it’s wise to maintain a healthy respect for the wildlife, both big and small. Our crew encountered a cobra in the campsite and we were also warned to check for scorpions, which can find their way into shoes!

For more information about the park rules and safety consult the national parks website.

Is Twee Rivieren Fenced?

This was one of my biggest concerns. We’d seen videos of lions wandering into camps, and while some camps in the Kgalagadi are open, Twee Rivieren is indeed fenced.

That said, this is wild Africa, and it’s always wise to exercise caution, especially at night. Remember, you are in the bush.

Can You Spend the Night in the Game Park at Twee Rivieren?

The entrance gate at Twee Rivieren closes strictly at dusk, and wild camping is not permitted. However, it is entirely possible to spend the night within the park at one of the other campsites. Some offer tented and cabin options, while others are wild, unfenced campsites.

Twee Rivieren is a fenced camp on the edge of the park, but if you’re self-driving and planning to move on, check the park website for alternative options.

Is It Worth Visiting Twee Rivieren?

In a word, yes. We absolutely loved our time here. Twee Rivieren offered the excitement of game drives while maintaining a relaxed and easy atmosphere.

Twee Rivieren offers a great blend of comfort and adventure, making it an ideal base for exploring the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Whether you’re traveling independently or, like us, as part of a tour, you’ll find it suits all types of explorers.

For us, there was something truly special about the Kgalagadi. Near the end of our remarkable journey across Africa, it was the perfect place to pause and reflect on everything we’d experienced. The Kalahari may be vast, and its wildlife elusive, but its beauty and tranquillity felt very special.

If you’re considering a visit, don’t hesitate—Twee Rivieren is well worth the detour.