In South Africa, the Kalahari desert begins to the north of the Orange River. This vast expanse of contrasting landscapes has arid wild red dunes as well as cultivated areas. Like a green lung, its river banks can support farming, and date palms and vineyards extend as far as the eye can see. Visitors (who should avoid coming in summer when the heat is unbearable) shoud not miss Pella and Upington, the region's main towns.