The Great Karoo is a vast and unforgiving landscape of which the Karoo National Park is but a small portion. Being the largest ecosystem in South Africa, the Karoo is home to a fascinating diversity of life, all having adapted to survive in these harsh conditions.

Karoo National Park is dominated by the lofty Nuweveld mountains and rolling plains, where many species that originally occurred here now occupy their former ranges. There is also a wide variety of endemic wildlife. Many species have been relocated to their former ranges - such as black rhino and buffalo, as well as Cape mountain zebra. Over 20 breeding pairs of black eagle find sanctuary within the park. Because of the sparse vegetation game viewing in Karoo NP is easily facilitated.

Best viewing is achieved on the 13km “Lammertjiesleegte” Route on the plains. Large herbivores such as Red Hartebeest, Black Wildebeest, Eland, the two zebra species, kudu and springbok are all regularly seen. Klipspringer are regularly seen on the pass of the same name. Other species are less obvious due to smaller size, nocturnal habits or restriction to the wilderness areas of the park.

Karoo National Park has a very rich reptilian fauna. Of particular significance are the 5 species of tortoise. However, there is also terrapin, agama, 2 chameleon species, monitor, 18 snake species and several geckos, skinks and lizards. The park’s best birding occurs in and around the campsite.

Rates Include:
Accommodation, VAT @ 14%

Rates Exclude:
Optional excursions

Birds: A list of over 200 species have been recorded from the area. The parks 20 odd pairs of black eagles are an attraction. Other birds of prey to watch for include Booted Eagle, Jackal Buzzard, Pale Chanting Goshawk and Rock Kestrel, while birding on the plains route, larks and chats are prominent.

Office Hours:  Mondays to Fridays 07:30 to 16:00 - The reception office is open from 07:00 to 20:00.

Gate Hours:  05:00 – 22:00   Arrivals after 22:00 are not permitted.  The reception office is open from 07:00 to 20:00.   Visitors with reserved accommodation who arrive after 20:00 must make prior arrangements to collect the keys to their accommodation at the entrance gate. Please call the camp at Tel +27 (0)23 415 2828.

Climate:  Annual rainfall totals 260 mm, with the plains being hot in summer, and the mountain areas relatively cool throughout the year. During mid-winter snow occurs regularly on the peaks of the Nuweveld Mountains.

Handy Hints:  Cool clothing for summer and warm for winter – the region is subject to sudden changes in weather, particularly in the mountains. Bring a hat, walking shoes, sun block, camera, binoculars and bird and mammal reference books.  Hikers on day trails must always carry sufficient water.

Take Note:  Pets are not allowed in national parks. Firearms to be declared at reception where they will be sealed. The seal will be broken upon departure. Motor cycles or bicycles are not allowed.
Hospital, doctors, pharmacies, as well as vehicle repair and police services in Beaufort West. Fuel available in Beaufort West.

Wheelchair Access:  The rest camp has three units accessible to wheelchair users.(Two 3-bedded bungalows and one 6-bedded guest cottage.) The reception area and shop can be accessed easily enough (there is a small step at the entrance to the building.) Descending into the restaurant is currently achieved via an exceptionally steep ramp, and even the strongest of wheelchair users will need assistance.

The highlight of the park from an accessibility perspective is a fossil trail that has Braille facilities for the visually impaired and most of the circuit is on a smooth, firm surface with an appropriate gradient. A bird hide and a couple of other walks are not accessible, but wheelchair users can follow the road down to the picturesque campsite and make their way around it absorbing the fauna and flora.