|AI|AIS/RICHTERSVELD TRANSFRONTIER PARK
GPS: S 28 07.427 E 016 53.442 | elevation 39 m/128 ft
|Ai|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park (027-831-1506, www.sanparks.org/parks/richtersveld, 7am-6pm, adult R110, child R55) is a massive 6,045-kilometer transfrontier park formed in 2003 with the merger of the |Ai|Ais Hot Springs Game Park in Namibia and the Richtersveld National Park in South Africa. The vast majority of this beautiful but rugged desert park lies north of the Orange River within Namibia. The landscape is striking, with beautiful mountains and rugged rock formations. The few notable signs of life include the “half-human tree,” which is a colorful succulent that somewhat resembles a human figure. Nama people believe the trees embody their ancestors. These plants are able to survive on the heavy morning dew, as there is little rainfall in the desert.
This is true desert with tough, arid land, and should not be taken lightly. Take care when packing for sun protection and bring a sufficient water supply. Temperatures can vary drastically between day and night. Summer daytime temperatures can reach near 50 °C/122 °F and winter nights dip below freezing. Also note that there is no cell phone reception within the park.
Hiking
Three Hiking Trails within the park lead visitors through the panoramic Ganakouriep Valley. The trails are open from April until September and include the Kodaspiek Trail (two days), Lelieshoek-Oemsberg Trail (three days) and Vensterval Trail (four days). Heading out on the trails requires a qualified guide, either from the park or from within the group.
Canoeing
Canoes are available for rent from Sendelingsdrif Rest Camp. It is also possible to go on guided multi-day canoe trips but arrangements with the main camp must be made at least a week in advance.
Sendelingsdrif Rest Camp is a newly built rest camp that serves as the headquarters of the South African side of the park. There are 10 en suite chalets, each with a gas fridge, electric stove and a deck overlooking the Orange River.
Potjiespram Rest Camp is located near the Orange River and has sandy camp sites with a newly constructed ablutions block offering cold water showers.
Tatasberg Wilderness Camp is located near the Orange River with basic two-bed self-catering reed cabins with 12-volt lights (but no general electricity), showers, gas refrigerator and stove. The water at these camps is not suitable for drinking and guests are advised to bring their own drinking water.
De Hoop Camp is the most popular of the campsites within the park because of its scenic location right on the banks of Orange River. The campsites are basic with cold showers.
Richtersburg Camp is located directly on the Orange River and has rustic campsites with refreshingly cold showers.
Kokerboomkloof Camp is located inland and there is no water available at this site. The closest water source is at Richtersburg (32 km away).
The only food available for sale on the South African side of the park is a small shop at the Sendelingsdrif Camp that sells takeaways, chips, cold drinks, and firewood. All food for the duration of your trip should be purchased outside and brought into the park.
The only food available for sale on the South African side of the park is a small shop at the Sendelingsdrif Camp that sells takeaways, chips, cold drinks, and firewood. All food for the duration of your trip should be purchased outside and brought into the park.