Information & Reservations

Rugged kloofs, high mountains and dramatic landscapes that sweep away inland from the Orange River divulge the fact that one is in the vast mountain desert of the Richtersveld. The park is located in South Africa’s only mountain desert. This is a harsh and unpredictable land that depends on the scarce water and life sustaining moisture that comes in the form of early morning fog, called ‘Ihuries’ or ‘Malmokkies’ by the local people. This water rolls in form the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean, sustaining a remarkable range of small reptiles, birds and mammals such as Hartmann’s mountain zebra, leopard, hyaena, klipspringer, mountain ground squirrel and suricate. The park has the largest consentration of succulents, many endemic, including Aloe Pillansii, Lithops, Herrei, and the ‘halfmens’ (Pachypodium namquanum) keeping vigil over this inscrutable landscape. Other plants species found in the area include the gnarled quiver tree and a proliferation of tall aloes.

Climate

The Richtersveld climate is harsh and dry, with extreme temperatures of 53°c having been recorded in mid summer. Over the warmer months, activity should best be restricted to early mornings and late afternoons. Nights are cool but may become chilly during winter.

Water and Shops

The Richtersveld is a desert with little fresh running water, it’s suggested that visitors bring along water containers and fill up when- ever possible, for example at the park entrance, in Alexander Bay, Port Nolloth or the small towns surrounding the park. There are no shops in the park itself, but fuel, cold drinks and basic supplies can be purchased at a small general store at Sendelingsdrift.

How to get there / Admission Fees

The most common access is via Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay and Sendlingsdrift to the main entrance. The last stretch, between Alexander Bay and Sendelingsdrift is dirt road. Internal roads are really farm tracks, mainly suited to 4 x 4 vehicles, but vehicles with high clearances such as combi’s and LDV’s can travel some of the park. Sedan cars are not permitted. Soft sand on many roads and in riverbeds makes driving in convoy recommended practice. Single vehicles must report to headquarters on arrival and departure. Driving at night is not permitted in the park. Admission and overnight permits must be obtained at the park office at Sendelingsdrift / Reuning. Overnight visitors must arrive before dark. Entrance fees, camp sites, four wheel drive routes and guided hiking trails generate revenue for the park, a portion of which is returned to the local communities. Spin off industries, such as the local textile industry, sell visitors local products and provide communities with extra income and work.

Nature and Wildlife

Impressive rock formations, a profusion of succulents and profound silence fills this mountain desert. Many of the species here, the gnarled Quiver Tree, or quaint ‘Halfmens’ for example, are endemic to the region. Communities surrounding the park lease the land of SA National Parks and some people have become involved with the running of the park or as field guides. The Orange River winds it’s way through the canyons of the Richtersveld offering visitors a change to cool off in the heat of the desert. Rapids make for ideal river rafting and canoeing.

Hiking Trails

Kodaspiek Trail – 2 days 1 night

Lelieshoek Oemsberg Trail – 3 days 2 nights

Ventersval Trail – 4 days 3 nights

These are only operational between 1 April and 30 September annually.

Accommodation

Arieb Cottage

Five bedrooms (10 beds), two bathrooms a lounge, dining room and kitchen, as well as ceiling fans in bedrooms, lounge and dining room. Bedding, towels and soap are provided. The kitchen is fully equipped, including stove, refrigerator, crockery and cutlery.

Camping

Potjiespram, Richtersberg, Kokerboomkloof and Die Koei have 3 camping sites each (max 6 persons per site and De Hoop, 8 (max 6 persons per site). Camping sites have no shelter or facilities. Supply own water, food, tents and outdoor equipment. Tents only, as terrain is not suitable for caravans. Sleeping open or on the ground is not recommended as heavy night time dew occurs, and scorpions are common in the area.

Accommodation in and around Royal Natal National Park