Mokala National Park

This is South Africa’s newest Park, proclaimed as recently as June 2007, and is conveniently situated only 80km south west of Kimberley. Mokala is a Setswana name for a Camelthorn or Kameeldoring tree(Acacia erioloba) and this Park is dominated by magnificent specimens of these strikingly gnarled and twisted trees. They vary from small spiny shrubs, barely 2m high, to 16m high trees with wide, spreading crowns.

Mokala National Park’s 19 611ha landscape varies between koppieveld (hills) and large open plains with the isolated dolerite hills giving the place a feeling of calm seclusion that contrasts with the large open sandy plains in the north and west of the Park. Drainage lines from the hills form little tributaries that run across the plains that drain into the Riet River on the Park’s northern border.

Mokala is an important breeding, research and conservation area for disease-free animals, which are fed back into some of the larger Parks. Mokala is home to, amongst other species: black rhino, white rhino, buffalo, tsessebe, roan antelope, mountain reedbuck, giraffe, gemsbok, eland, zebra, red hartebeest, blue wildebeest, black wildebeest, kudu, ostrich, steenbok, duiker and springbok. The Camelthorn trees and river also attract a prolific number of bird species.

Attractions & Activities

As in all our Parks you can do your own self-drive game viewing but why not just sit back and relax on one of our day or night open-vehicle guided game drives where you can learn more about the rare species of Mokala. Let us take you to see the fascinating rock engraving of the original inhabitants of the Park on the San rock art excursion.

Apart from restaurants at both Mosu and Lilydale, we also provide catering in the form of special outdoor meals, that allow you to savour the African savannah, while enjoying a delectable fare. You can start you morning with a bush breakfast, or in the evening, you can request a good old traditional open fire South African braai (barbecue). The meat is braaied to perfection under the canopy of a large Camelthorn tree.

Take advantage of the clear skies at night, and go on an astronomy and southern night sky edutainment experience. Here you will be given an educational presentation, including a viewing through a large telescope. As there are few predators in the Park, an unusual and rewarding way of getting in touch with the big outdoors is, on a guided mountain bike tour.

For those staying at Lilydale you have the added attraction of the Riet River. The river is very popular with fly fishermen (on a catch-and-release basis only) and is a favourable habitat for the large- and small-mouth yellowfish. Inflatable canoes (rubber ducks) can be hired for a 1- or 5- hour trip down the river at very reasonable rates. We take you down to the river in rubber ducks and then fetch you at the end of your river adventure.

Accommodation

Mosu Lodge

Mosu Lodge, with its many thatched buildings, radiates luxurious bushveld charm. The chalets (5 self-catering, 10 non self-catering) are surrounded by typical Karoo-like koppies (hills), studded with Camelthorn trees and are unfenced, leaving the game free to join the birdlife on your doorstep. All residents have access to a stunning pool, a full bar (with a pool table on a mezzanine floor) and a restaurant that specialises in exclusive venison dishes.

Mofele Lodge

Set amongst extensive rolling lawns, Mofele Lodge is the ideal venue for a ‘bosberaad’, team building session or a large tour group. Catering and Group bookings for up to 30 people, the facilities include: bedding, catered dining room and conference facilities for either 30 delegates, in boardroom style, or 40 in cinema style.

Lilydale Lodge

All of the twelve thatched cottages at Lilydale are freestanding and they, and the restaurant deck, have lofty views that overlook the Riet River. Canoeing in inflatable rubber ducks and catch-and-release fly fishing are two of the additional attractions of this rest camp. The venue is also favoured for wedding receptions. There are no shops or fuel but Kimberley is only 80km away.