The friendly village of Eksteenfontein is the ‘capital’ of the Richtersveld Community Conservancy (RCC). The administration offices are here, as is a tourist info centre and a museum (which is a work in progress). So, it’s a good place to get all the latest info on the Richtersveld Community Conservancy (RCC).
The town is built along the banks of a small stream called the Stinkfontein. This rather unappetising name dates back to a time when the Khoikhoi and the Bushmen were engaged in a bitter rivalry. The story goes that after one particularly fierce battle, a number of bodies were left in the river and it started to smell.
Despite its grisly etymology, Eksteenfontein is an attractive place surrounded by wonderful mountains. Goats roam through the village, tinkling their bells as they trot between the colourful houses. There’s a humble church, built by Reverend Eksteen and his congregation of people who were known as ‘basters’, and the primary school is full of romping children. It even has the name of the town spelled out in white stones on a prominent ridge above the settlement. All in all, it seems to be a place with a growing sense of pride.
Indeed, the people of Eksteenfontein are actively working towards the cultural and economic rejuvenation of the community. The large communi...
Activities on the Richtersveld Route include hiking, 4x4 trails, bird watching, mountain biking and donkey-cart rides. The Richtersveld Rout...