Richtersveld
Exotic rock desert
A five-star 4×4 adventure route exploring the only rock desert in Southern Africa.
The Richtersveld is a desert landscape characterised by rugged kloofs and high mountains, situated in the north-western corner of the Northern Cape province. These are dramatic landscapes. The Richtersveld is regarded as the only arid biodiversity hotspot on earth and the majority of the area is inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List due to its cultural values.
Approximately 4 849 plant species, 40 per cent of which are endemic, have been documented in the Richtersveld and comprise mainly succulent and aloe species. The area is home to a number of rather unusual plants, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. Chief among these is the “Halfmens”(Pachypodium namaquanum ). These trees are revered by the indigenous Nama people as the embodiment of their ancestors, half-human, half plant, mourning for their ancient Namibian home. Also found here are three endemic species of the tree aloe Aloidendron: A. dichotomum, A. pillansii and A. ramosissimum, referred to as “kokerbome” or “quiver trees”.
On our journey, we are accompanied by one of the best-informed guides in Namaqualand. Don’t be surprised if you spend more time on all fours, searching for succulents, than in your 4×4.
- Total distance: 750 km
- Distance between fuel stations: 150 – 200 km
- Terrain: Rock, riverbed, gravel road, mountain pass
- Starts: Klein Pella
- Ends: Port Nolloth
- Includes: Dinner the first night at Klein Pella, brunch, dinner, eating utensils, camping fees, permits, 2-way radios, ablution facility & shower (evening only)
- Excludes: Beverages and snacks
- Maximum: 12 vehicles
- Minimum: 16 adults
- Cost: R 11 400.00 pp
