Tlhalefang Charles laments:
"Since many people want to go to Gaoberekwe’s burial in the CKGR, here is some perspective about travelling there.
The burial will take place at Gaoberekwe’s birthplace at Metsiamanong.
Where is Metsiamanong?
If you look at the Botswana map and put a finger right in the middle of it, that’s Metsiamanong. It’s almost located on the true centre of Botswana.
How do you get there?
First you need a permit. Remember we’re here because the body of Gaoberekwe was denied a permit to enter CKGR.
The easiest route is by a chopper, just fly to this point: 22°26'02.0"S 24°13'55.5"E. Well, if you can’t afford a chopper then it’s a long tough drive. Driving through this iconic game reserve is one of our country’s ultimate adventure experiences. It’s special. There’s about four legal entrances into CKGR; Xade, Khutse, Matshwere and Tsau. (But the whole thing is not fenced).
Depending on the driver and the vehicle, it takes about 12 hours from Xade, Khutse and Matswere Gates to reach Metsiamanong. Once again, depending on the driver and the vehicle. This is the CKGR, it demands ultimate respect.
In terms of the distance, the route from Khutse Gate (south), is shorter, but the terrain is tough sandy road, especially in this heat when the sand is hot and soft (pray for rain). Don’t dare try this alone (I don’t think it’s even legal to drive alone into the CKGR).
The distance from Xade Gate (west) to Metsiamanong is almost the same as the one from Matswere Gate, but that’s just half the story, because getting to Xade Gate is another mission. This route has the longest distance from the nearest fuel station in Ghanzi.
Alternatively, the route from Matswere Gate (east) has generally a better terrain and it’s the one that is closest to a fuel station at Rakops.
Note that at Metsiamanong there’s no water. No shops. No fuel. No power. No wifi. No cellphone coverage. No accommodation. No clinic.
Remember this is the iconic CKGR. It’s wild and unforgiving. But when you reach Metsiamanong you will be awed at how humans exist out there.
And if you’re gifted, you will understand the mysticism of the story of Pitseng Gaoberekwe, and humans of Tc’amnqoo (CKGR)."
#CKGR #Botswana 🇧🇼
My grandpa once told me "if you get on the wrong train, get off at the nearest station, the longer it takes you to get off, the more expensive the return trip will be."
He wasn’t talking about trains.
💎 Botswana number 1 in the world for Diamond production by value, 2022:
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