Planning a trip to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park? Two temporary facility closures you should know about

If you're planning a visit to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park during August or early September 2026, there's a small but important update to keep in mind. South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced temporary maintenance closures affecting both Urikaruus Wilderness Camp and the swimming pool at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp.

The work is part of routine maintenance and should help improve facilities for future visitors.

Urikaruus Wilderness Camp closes for annual maintenance

One of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park's most sought-after wilderness camps, Urikaruus Wilderness Camp, will be closed from 10 August to 08 September 2026 for its scheduled annual maintenance.

The camp is expected to reopen on 09 September 2026.

Urikaruus Wilderness Camp is famous for its elevated cabins overlooking the Auob River, where guests can often enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing directly from their private decks. Because it offers only a limited number of units, anyone planning to stay here during the closure period should already have been contacted regarding alternative arrangements. If you're still looking to book accommodation for these dates, you'll need to consider one of Kgalagadi's other rest camps or wilderness camps instead.

Twee Rivieren swimming pool temporarily unavailable

Visitors staying at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp should also note that the camp's swimming pool will be closed from 11 August until 11 September 2026.

SANParks will carry out repairs and upgrades aimed at improving the safety and overall quality of the facility. The pool is scheduled to reopen on 12 September 2026, provided the maintenance work is completed as planned.

 

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Urikaruus Wilderness Camp power interruptions expected during solar upgrade

Travellers planning a stay at Urikaruus Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park between 29 June and 02 July 2026 should be aware of possible intermittent power interruptions while South African National Parks (SANParks) carries out upgrades to the camp's solar power system.

According to SANParks, the project will involve extending the existing solar panel structures to accommodate additional panels, as well as installing new equipment designed to improve the camp's renewable energy infrastructure.

While the work is under way, guests may experience occasional disruptions to electricity supply. SANParks says every effort will be made to minimise inconvenience and complete the upgrades as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Urikaruus Wilderness Camp is one of the Kgalagadi's most sought-after wilderness camps, offering elevated chalet accommodation overlooking the dry Auob River bed and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing directly from the camp.

Visitors travelling during the upgrade period may wish to charge cameras, phones and other electronic devices whenever power is available and should be prepared for short interruptions during the day.

 

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Urikaruus Wilderness Camp to temporarily close for maintenance in August–September 2025! [update]

update (19 September 2025): SANParks has announced that the upgrade and repairs to the Urikaruus Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has been completed. The camp is available for bookings from today, Friday 19 September 2025. 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Urikaruus Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will be closed for essential maintenance from 11 August 2025 to 15 September 2025. The popular riverside retreat is scheduled to reopen on 16 September 2025, with bookings available from that date.

Nestled along the dry Auob River, the Urikaruus Wilderness Camp is one of the most sought-after wilderness getaways in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. This small, unfenced camp consists of four elevated riverside cabins connected by wooden walkways, offering uninterrupted views of a private waterhole that attracts wildlife both day and night. Guests often spot lions, hyenas, antelope, and an abundance of birdlife directly from their decks.

Urikaruus Wilderness Camp is located between Twee Rivieren Rest Camp and Mata Mata Rest Camp, approximately 72 km (around two hours) from Twee Rivieren Rest Camp along the scenic Auob River road. The nearest shop and fuel station are at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp, where all guests must check in before continuing to the camp.
While the camp is accessible by regular passenger vehicles, road conditions in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park can be sandy and rough. A high-clearance or 4×4 vehicle is recommended for a more comfortable drive. The access road and camp area are reserved exclusively for overnight guests, ensuring a peaceful and private wilderness experience.

 

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