South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that construction work to increase water capacity at Bitterpan Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will commence in February 2026. The project is expected to run for approximately four weeks and forms part of SANParks’ ongoing efforts to strengthen critical park infrastructure and improve long-term sustainability in remote wilderness camps.
What visitors can expect from early February 2026
From around 04 February 2026, guests travelling to or through the Bitterpan area may notice limited construction-related activity, including:
- Construction vehicles operating along the Moravet Road
- General site preparation work near the camp
SANParks has indicated that visitor safety and the wilderness experience remain a priority, and disruptions are expected to be minimal. These upgrades are essential to ensure reliable water supply at one of the park’s most remote and exclusive camps.
About Bitterpan Wilderness Camp
Set on stilts above the red dunes of the Kalahari, Bitterpan Wilderness Camp is an exclusive, remote camp overlooking a waterhole in the heart of the Kgalagadi. It forms part of a one-way 4x4 wilderness route linking Nossob Rest Camp with Mata-Mata Rest Camp and the Kalahari Tented Camp.
Key access information:
- Route: One-way only, starting at Nossob Rest Camp
- Vehicles: 4x4 only (heavy 4x4 vehicles not permitted)
- Driving times:
- Nossob Rest Camp > Bitterpan: ± 2.5 hrs
- Bitterpan > Mata-Mata Rest Camp: ± 3 hrs
- Check-in: Nossob Rest Camp only
Visitors should overnight at Nossob Rest Camp before travelling to Bitterpan Wilderness Camp. Due to the camp’s isolation and strict one-way access, careful planning is essential.
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