Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Road between Kamqua–Mata Mata undergoes upgrading!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that sections of the road linking Kamqua and Mata Mata Rest Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will undergo scheduled upgrading from January 2026. The improvement project is expected to run for approximately nine months, aiming to enhance long-term access and driving conditions in this remote wilderness area.

According to SANParks, initial construction activities - ncluding site preparation and the mobilisation of heavy machinery - are set to begin around 20 January 2026. While the works are underway, visitors should anticipate temporary inconvenience, including detours around the most affected sections of the route.

Importantly, SANParks has assured travellers that accommodation at Mata Mata Rest Camp, Kalahari Tented Camp, and Urikaruus Wilderness Camp will not be affected by the construction. All camps will remain fully accessible throughout the upgrade period.

SANParks has also clarified that the road will not be tarred as part of this project. Instead, targeted improvements will focus on the most problematic sections to improve safety and drivability while maintaining the park’s rugged, low-impact character.

Visitors planning a trip to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in 2026 are advised to allow extra travel time and follow all on-site signage and instructions. SANParks has apologised for any inconvenience caused and appreciates visitors’ understanding as these essential infrastructure improvements are carried out.

 

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Maintenance work taking place in two camps!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that Mata Mata Rest Camp and Kalahari Tented Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are undergoing much needed maintenance. Work conducted today (15 September 2023) and is expected to continue approximately for 3x months. According to Regional Communications Manager: Arid Parks at South African National Parks (SANParks), Genevieve Maasdorp, work will include, amongst others, the painting of all the roofs of the accommodation, replacement of the walkways woods where needed and the maintenance of all the furniture. We'll keep you posted!

The Mata Mata Rest Camp is situated on the banks of the Auob River on the western boundary of  Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and borders Namibia. The Kalahari Tented Camp is approx. 3 km from the Mata Mata Rest Camp. Situated high up on a red sand dune, it is overlooking a waterhole in the dry bed of the ancient Auob River.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: River Front Chalets in the Mata Mata Rest Camp to undergo maintenance!

The roofs of the River Front Chalets in the Mata Mata Rest Camp in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will undergo much-needed maintenance from Friday, 15 September 2023. The whole project is expected to take eight month to finish, as one chalet at a time will be worked at. According to South African National Parks (SANParks), guests will not be affected negatively by the maintenance work. 

The Mata Mata Rest Camp is situated on the banks of the Auob River on the western boundary of  Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and borders Namibia. The Camp has a reception, swimming pool, shop and fuel facilities. A generator provides electricity for 16.5 hrs per day and there is no telephone or cellphone reception. Mata Mata Rest Camp is 2,5 hrs drive from Twee Rivieren Rest Camp.