Meet Meerkats at the Kuruman River Reserve, Northern Cape
The Kuruman River Reserve near Van Zylsrus in the Northern Cape is home to The Kalahari Meerkat Project, which studies a large habituated population of meerkats for the purposes of collecting empirical data on co-operative mammal behaviour, breeding and other aspects of social behaviour, survival and learning. It is a very serious scientific project, with no tourism arm whatsoever. Public access to the meerkat population being studied is highly restricted and regulated – but it is possible.
Meeting these delightful denizens of the Kalahari is something many would like to do, and the KMP allows highly limited and restricted half-day visits to guests of local accommodation establishments – the Van Zylsrus Hotel and the Leeupan Guest Farm. Please check the Kalahari Meerkat Project’s website to see what restrictions are in place (at the time of writing only 3 people are allowed at a time and only on Sundays)
The Kalahari Meerkat Project also has a volunteer programme, you can get involved in the project through an Earthwatch expedition, or you can become a Friend of the Kalahari Meerkat Project.
For more on the above, the project and details of the accommodation establishments that have been given a ‘special pass’ see the Meerkats – Kalahari Meerkat Project
The Kuruman River Reserve is otherwise off-limits. Another great place to see Meerkats is Tswalu
| More info on the quaint town of Kuruman | More info on the Kalahari area |
Related Articles
Book your accommodation right here on ShowMe.
You can find the top hotels, lodges and Airbnb establishments conveniently placed on the map below. All you need to do is click on the place that’s conveniently located and within your budget and then make a booking. What could be easier?
If the map is not where you want to be, click on the ShowMe Pin and then enter the exact name of the location and the map will adjust accordingly.
