Thirstland Trails focus on slackpacking trails, tours and experiences in the Kalahari
Meet the Team
Gert van Zyl grew up on a wildlife ranch in Limpopo, South Africa. After obtaining a diploma in Game Ranch Management he became actively involved in ecotourism with experience as Field Guide, Overland Safari Guide and Lodge Manager. This includes a few years in Tanzania as lodge manager in the Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park. As Overland Safari Guide, Gert guided through-out Southern and Eastern Africa on more than 50 tours, ranging from a few day’s to a few months at a time.
Gert started Thirstland Trails to focus on the drier western parts of Southern Africa through activities and tours. The beauty and uniqueness of the Kalahari thirstland offers a lot to any person willing to spend a bit of time in this region.
Join Gert and Thirstland Trails to experience the Kalahari and other destinations through a multi-day activity-filled adventure.
Thirstland Trails forms part of Go Tripping Pty Ltd.
From 15-20 September, our group of 11 embarked on an unforgettable hiking adventure in the breathtaking Kalahari with Gert van Zyl as our exceptional tour leader. Exploring this diverse landscape was a true revelation, as we discovered the fascinating plants, trees, and wildlife that call this stunning region of South Africa home.
The friendships forged, delicious food, and cozy overnight stays in comfortable tents only added to the experience. Gert’s expertise, thoughtfulness, and passion made all the difference, treating us to captivating activities such as:
• Visiting a camel farm
• Sleeping under the stars on a vast 42km-diameter pan
• Walking with a Bushman, gaining insights into their ancient traditions
• And many more unforgettable moments!
I highly recommend this tour to anyone seeking an immersive and enriching experience in the Kalahari. Gert’s guidance ensures an unforgettable adventure!
Die was n ongelooflike ervaring wat n jaarlikse instelling moet wees! Gert, dankie vir 6 dae van deel met n wonderlike groep mense waar ons nuwe ervarings kon he, saam stap, jou liefde vir die natuur en Kalahari kon deel en ook soveel nuwe dinge kon leer.
Dit was n wel georganiseerde en gemaklike tent kamp ervaring met 5 ster etes.
Dit was ook n week met die mooiste sonsondergange en sterrehemel, sundowners op die duine, lag en deel om n Kalahari vuur. Dit was n tyd wat n mens se lewensfles tot oorlopens toe vol maak.
Ek sien uit na n volgende hike op jou nuwe beplande roetes!
Thirstland trails is an experience not to be missed! We had a wonderful time exploring the many facets the Kalahari has to offer! From camping on the Koppieskraal pan under the “blue” moon, tracking with a bushman, tasting camel milk, watching meerkat behaviour, and walking the dunes to experience life on it. Even the history of the Kalahari was shared by visiting a few historic places. On top of that, we had exquisite Kalahari meals every day!
Gert is an organised, well informed tour guide with a lot of knowledge. We can recommend this adventure to everyone!
A true Kalahari adventure with warm people and nature’s best.
Good food, always something to drink and big “kuier” bonfires in the evenings.
Gert has loads of interesting facts to share. Never a dull moment, in fact, a week is too short for this experience.
Highly Recommend for all nature’s lovers 👣