Camdeboo National Park in Southern Africa
Camdeboo National Park
In the heart of one of South Africa's greatest natural wonders, the Karoo, lies the Camdeboo National Park. Situated on the foothills of the Sneeuberg range, Camdeboo is absolutely surrounded by the unique landscape and ecosystem of the Karoo, an awesome scenic beauty.The Nqweba Dam lies within the park and covers about 1000 hectares when full.
The Parks divers spectrum of wildlife includes steenbok, springbok, kudu, grey duiker, blesbok, black wildebeest and the Cape buffalo. The bat-eared fox is often seen, it's greatest weapon its large ears which is used to locate insects. If you're lucky you might even catch a glimpse of the Red hartebeest and gemsbok and Cape mountain zebra, reportedly seen from time to time.
Accommodation
Camdeboo National Park encircles the town of Graaff-Reinet, which has a variety of accommodation options.
Activities and Facilities
Valley of Desolation
The Valley of Desolation is a National Monument of geological and scenic significance.
The road to the top of the valley provides visitors with easy access to the viewpoints with their panoramic views of the landscape.
Compassberg
The highest peak in the Sneeuberg mountain range is prominent, while on a clear day, the southern horizon stretches as far as the distant Cockscomb Mountains. To the east lies the 'Driekoppie' (in the park) and the Nardausberg (beyond the park boundaries), both of which are often covered in snow during winter.
The Plains of Camdeboo lies spread out south of the Sneeuberg from Pearston to Murraysburg. The viewpoints at the valley itself provide a breathtaking view of piled dolerites columns against the backdrop of the plain of the Great Karoo and a timeless sense of wonder.
How to get there
When entering Graaff-Reineton College Road, keep driving until it becomes Church Street. The Old Dutch Reformed Church is dead centre of this road and vehicles can only turn left around the church and will come to a stop street.
Turn left at the stop street into Caledon.At the four-way stop, turn right into the road towards Murraysburg. Keep going onto the road to the Valley of Desolation.
The entrance to the park is 8km from Graaff-Reinet on the Murraysburg road.
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