|Ai|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park

|Ai-|Ais / Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is hauntingly beautiful, seared by a blistering sun, interspersed by lava mountains and sandy plains, it forms southern Africa’s largest Mountain Desert Park.

In August 2003 an international treaty was signed between the Presidents of South Africa and Namibia to form the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. This has opened the way for border crossings within the Park between South Africa and Namibia, where a pont takes you across the Orange River at Sendelingsdrift.

Though surrealistically harsh (this is the driest area in the Northern Cape), the rugged Richtersveld side of the Park nurtures some 30% of all South Africa’s succulent plant species. With less than 50mm of rain each year, it is home to leopards, lizards and adventurers. Paradoxically beautiful, it is a land for those keen to ‘rough it’.

You can explore it from the comfort of your 4x4 or paddle the river, taking in the awe-inspiring, seldom-seen purity of a mountain desert wilderness. This is a harsh and unpredictable land where water is scarce and life-sustaining moisture comes in the form of early morning fog – called ‘Ihuries’ or ‘Malmokkies’ by the local people – which rolls in from the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean, sustaining a remarkable range of small reptiles, birds and mammals.

A staggering assortment of plant life, some species occurring nowhere else, is to be found here, with gnarled quiver trees, tall aloes and quaint ‘half-mens’ keeping vigil over this inscrutable landscape.

Attractions & Activities

The rugged landscapes and high diversity of arid plant species are undoubtedly the biggest attractions of the Richtersveld. Added to that, is the challenge of the ‘offroad’ driving, the seclusion of the wilderness camps and the contrast between the Orange River and its’ arid surrounds. Fly-fishing and river rafting are also very popular.

On the Namibian side, the awesome Fish River Canyon and the |Ai-|Ais hot springs are the main attractions. For those fit enough, the 5-day Fish River Canyon hiking trail is also very rewarding.

Accommodation

Sendelingsdrift

Rest Camp

This camp has ten chalets with electricity, twelve camping sites (no electricity), a small supply store, swimming pool, and the main reception at Sendelingsdrift, where all visitors must go on arrival. There is a pont nearby which takes you over the river to Namibia.

Pootjiespram

Campsite

Pootjiespram is the largest campsite in the Richtersveld. Only eleven kilometres from Reception, it is situated on the banks of the Orange River and is a favourite first stop camp site, set away from the more built up Sendelingsdrift. There are eighteen campsites with cold water ablutions and no electricity or supplies. There also is an Education Centre which provides accommodation in traditional Nama huts. Activities include fly-fishing, river rafting, and swimming in the Orange river.

De Hoop

Campsite

This is one of the most popular spots in the Park and is arguably the most centrally situated camp site that is also on the river. This area is also a favourite with fly-fisherman, birdwatchers and children. It has twelve campsites with cold water ablutions, and no electricity or supplies. Activities include fly-fishing, river rafting, and swimming in the Orange river.

Richtersberg

This camp overlooks the river and the rugged mountains on the Namibian side, which are complemented by the jagged peaks of the awesome Tatasberg range. It also has twelve campsites with cold water ablutions, no electricity or supplies. Activities include fly-fishing, river rafting, and swimming in the Orange river.

Kokerboomkloof

Campsite

This Kloof is home to some of the best rock formations in the Richtersveld. The eight campsites, each with dry toilets, are all snuggled up against massive boulders. There is no power or water available. Please bring your own water as the closest available is at Richtersberg, 32km away.