Kgalagadi's Urikaruus Camp Goes Greener — Solar Upgrade to Boost Wilderness Experience
Guests heading to one of southern Africa's most coveted wilderness retreats should prepare for brief power interruptions in the coming days. South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that essential upgrades to the solar power system at Urikaruus Wilderness Camp, deep within the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, will take place from 29 June to 2 July 2026. The work signals a meaningful investment in renewable energy infrastructure at one of the region's most treasured safari hideaways.
According to SANParks, the upgrade will involve extending the camp's existing solar panel structures to make room for additional panels, alongside the installation of new equipment intended to strengthen the camp's renewable energy capacity. While the work is in progress, visitors may notice occasional disruptions to the electricity supply. Park authorities have assured guests that every effort will be made to minimise inconvenience and complete the project as efficiently as possible.
For African tour operators and safari specialists familiar with the Kgalagadi, the news is a welcome reminder of how Africa's protected areas are quietly transforming behind the scenes. Sustainability has become a central thread in the continent's tourism story, and upgrades like these reflect the growing pressure on national parks to deliver eco-friendly guest experiences without compromising the raw, off-grid character that defines remote safari destinations.
Urikaruus is no ordinary camp. Tucked between ancient camel thorn trees and overlooking the dry Auob River bed, it offers four elevated cabins built on stilts, connected by raised walkways. The camp is unfenced, ranking among the Kgalagadi's most sought-after wilderness retreats, where black-maned lions, cheetahs and leopards roam freely through the surrounding terrain. Guests routinely enjoy spectacular wildlife sightings directly from their private decks, making the camp a firm favourite with discerning safari clients.
Because the property is so small and intimate — accommodating no more than eight guests at a time — it is renowned for being booked up to a year in advance. Children under 12 are not permitted, which adds to its appeal among couples, photographers and well-heeled wilderness enthusiasts looking for true solitude in the Kalahari. Each cabin is fitted with two single beds, a private bathroom with shower, and a fully equipped kitchen complete with a gas fridge and freezer.
The camp's character relies almost entirely on its off-grid systems: solar-powered lighting, gas-heated water and braai facilities on each deck. This is precisely why the current upgrade is so significant. By expanding solar capacity, SANParks is preparing Urikaruus for a future in which sustainable tourism is not just an added feature but a baseline expectation. Operators selling Kgalagadi experiences to African and international clients can confidently highlight these improvements as part of the camp's broader commitment to responsible travel.
Travellers booked in during the upgrade window should plan with care. Guests are encouraged to charge cameras, mobile phones and other electronic devices whenever power is available, and to keep portable power banks on hand. Short daytime power dips are expected, though normal evening operations should remain largely unaffected. For photographers especially, a little preparation will go a long way given the camp's reputation as one of the finest sundown wildlife-watching spots in the Kalahari.
The broader takeaway for the African travel sector is that infrastructure investment in remote camps such as Urikaruus signals confidence in the long-term value of wilderness tourism. As demand for low-impact, immersive safari experiences continues to climb across the continent, properties that pair authentic wilderness atmosphere with reliable, sustainable systems are well-placed to thrive. Urikaruus's solar boost is a small but telling example of how Africa's iconic parks are quietly future-proofing themselves for the next generation of travellers.
