Richtersveld/Ai-Ais Park

Rugged kloofs, high mountains and dramatic landscapes that sweep away inland from the Orange River divulge the fact that you are now in the vast mountain desert that is the Richtersveld National Park, an area managed jointly by the local Nama people and the South African National Parks.The Park is only accessible by means of a 4×4 vehicle, but vehicles with high clearances such as combi’s and LDV’s do travel in the park. Sedan vehicles are not permitted. There is no specific route that can be booked in advance.

Once inside the park, there is a choice of 5 campsites and 3 wilderness camps.

Enquire / Book Now Tariffs
De Hoop Camp Site (CK6)
  • Camp Site with no power point
  • Ablutions
  • COLD water shower
  • Very rustic
Kokerboomkloof Camp Site (CK6)
  • Camp Site with no power point
  • No shower/wash facility
  • No power
  • Toilet available, very rustic
  • Nearest water at Richtersberg (32km)
Potjiespram Rest Camp (CK6)
  • Camps Site with no power point
  • Ablutions
  • COLD water shower
  • Access through Sendelingsdrif.
  • – Very rustic
Richtersberg Rest Camp (CK6)
  • Camps Site with no power point
  • Ablutions
  • COLD water shower
  • Access through Sendelingsdrif.
  • Very rustic
Sendelingsdrif Camping (CK6)
  • Camp Site with no power point
  • Ablution with WC & bath
  • Late arrival camp site
  • Emergency camp
Sendelingsdrif Chalet (CH2)
  • 2 single beds
  • Aircon, – Ceiling Fan
  • Kitchenette
  • Units overlook the Orange River
  • Wc and shower
Sendelingsdrif Chalet (CH4)
  • 2 bedrooms, each with 2 single beds
  • Aircon, – Ceiling Fan
  • Kitchenette
  • Units overlook the Orange River
  • Wc and shower
Tatasberg Wilderness Camp - Reed Cabin (RC2)
  • 2 single beds
  • Braai facility on deck
  • Gas stove and fridge
  • Paraffin lamps
  • Solar power, no plug points
  • Utensils
  • Wc and shower
  • Guests to provide own drinking water and firewood
Gannakouriep Wilderness Camp - Canvas Cabin (CC2)
  • 2 single beds
  • Braai facilities available
  • Gas stove, no oven
  • Solar power, no plug points
  • Solar powered fridge and geyser
  • Utensils
  • Wc and shower
  • Guests to provide own drinking water and firewood

Frequently Asked Questions

Activities:
  • Walks & Trails
  • Bird watching
  • Flower Season
Climate:

Please note that heavy dew sometimes occurs at night.

Extreme temperatures of up to 53 degrees Celsius having been recorded in mid-summer.

Nights are cool but may become chilly during winter.

Heavy night-time dew occurs in the park.

Office Hours:
  • Monday - Friday: 07:30 - 18:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 18:00
  • Sunday and Public Holidays: 08:00 - 16:30
Gate Hours:
  • 1 October to 30 April: 07:00 - 19:00
  • 1 May to 30 September: 07:00 - 18:00
Check in Time:
  • 1 October to 30 April: 07:00 - 19:00
  • 1 May to 30 September: 07:00 - 18:00
Take Note:
  • Pets are not allowed in a National Park.
  • No firearms are allowed in the park accommodation
  • It is an offence to pick flowers or to remove plants or any other material from the park.
  • The use of drones is strictly prohibited in/around all national parks
  • Plastic refuse bags are essential as all rubbish must be removed on departure.
  • Firewood and kindling may not be collected in the park.
  • Gas cookers are recommended due to evening winds.
  • Extra spare wheel, tools, spares, enough food and extra water containers are essential.
  • Fresh water is available at Sendelingsdrift.
  • Do not sleep on the bare ground as the park is an ideal scorpion habitat.
  • Overnight visitors must arrive before 16:00 to reach camping sites before dark
    • .
  • Driving in the park at night is not permitted.
Handy Hints:
  • Arrive at Sendelingsdrift early as you need at least 3 hours to reach De Hoop. You then need more time to get to the other camp sites.
  • Potjiespram is near to mining activities in the vicinity, there is dense bush, deep sand and it is far from the Orange River.
  • Deflate your vehicle's tyres before tackling the park. Take 2 spare tyres with.
  • If you camp at De Hoop or Richtersberg, you don't need much fresh water because the river is at your disposal.
  • Be prepared for difficult terrain between Sendelingsdrift and De Hoop.
  • Exit the park through Helskloof Pass - the views are wonderful.
  • Don't try to tackle the river road between De Hoop and Richtersberg in a 2X4 because of the deep sand.
  • Binoculars and cameras are a must.
  • Insect Repellent is strongly recommended

What to take

  • There are no facilities in the national park.
  • The vehicle will need a range of approximately 500kms, not excessive and most vehicles will cope with that.
  • Tyre problems can pose a challenge and it's a good idea to carry two spares or the very least a puncture repair kit.
  • Drive with patience and tyre problems can be avoided.

Any Questions?

We would be more than happy to help you. Give us a call or email us, and we will get back to you asap.

021 8135868
travel@toursa.com