Richtersveld National Park
Explore the mountain landscape of the Richtersveld National Park with the dramatic twists and turns of Helskloof and Akkedis Pass. Explore the nooks and crannies for interesting plants in this treasure trove of endemic vegetation where desert landscapes are varied, colourful and interspersed with magnificent river scenery along the banks of the Orange River.
The Richtersveld boasts a particularly long and convoluted geological timeline which, quite frankly, sets my mind a-boggle. Nevertheless, the peculiar landscape, plant life, mineral deposits and cultural riches of the region are directly connected to the rocks on which they rest.
The biodiversity of the Richtersveld is remarkable and this arid region with an average annual rainfall of around 150 mm is also a World Heritage Site of cultural significance. The Richtersveld is the home of the last remaining members of the Nama tribe of Khoikhoi who still practice their traditional semi-nomadic way of life.
Some of them still live in their traditional dome shaped matjieshuise (reed huts), known as |haru oms in the Nama language. This unbroken cultural and architectural tradition stretches back over 2000 years.
Everyone loves a good road trip – and with a country as beautiful as South Africa, it’s easy to see why. Taking to the road is ingrained...