As if a reserve based on a 9km wide, 2km long and 100m high white-sand dune standing out in stark contrast to the typical red Kalahari sands surrounding it weren’t enough, this one also comes with a soundtrack. When the wind blows here the sand sings. Known as ‘roaring sands’ the effect is created by the movement of air across the dunes and creates a bass, organ-like sound; walking on the sands produces a muted groan.
Activities include hiking, sandboarding , mountain biking and a 40km 4WD route through the dunes. The guided walks at sunrise and after dark are a fascinating way to learn about the dunes’ formation and meet their inhabitants, from antelopes to the dancing white lady spider.
The bush camp has a swimming pool and thatch-roofed, four-star chalets. With sliding doors and dark wood, the self-catering chalets sleep up to six in three comfortable, compact rooms with shared bathroom. The Kalahari Experience package offers full-board chalet accommodation with a guided dune walk. Two- and four-person bungalows , more accurately huts with bedding provided, shared ablutions and field kitchen, and camping are also available. The bar-restaurant is not particularly good, but offers an alternative to self-catering.
From the N14, the turnoff to the reserve is about 5km southwest of Olifantshoek, about 400m southwest of the Postmasburg turning and 105km from Kuruman. From there, the gravel road leads 75km southwest to the reserve. From Rte 62, the turnoff is about 60km east of Groblershoop and 5km east of Volop; the reserve is then 45km north on the gravel road. If it hasn’t rained recently, the gravel road should be passable in a 2WD with good clearance. Phone the reserve to check. Witsand does not have a petrol station.
