Out here on the infinite semi-desert plains of the Tankwa Karoo there are few people and plenty of space; so much space that you will feel it rolling towards you in great, heady waves.
Not only will you experience an unmatched sense of freedom; you will also discover one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
A hotspot that, rain permitting, bursts into flower from August to October, offering uninterrupted floral views across the plains to the Roggeveld Mountains on the eastern horizon and the Cederberg to the west.
Global Biodiversity Hotspot
Only 2 Southern African regions have been designated biodiversity hotspots by Conservation International. One is the Cape Floral Kingdom; the other is the one that spans the Tankwa.
Such is its biological diversity (biodiversity) and ecological importance that the Tankwa Karoo National Park has recently been expanded from 27 000 to 99 000 hectares.
The western section of the park ranks amongst the most arid areas of the Karoo, falling into the 0-50mm rainfall range, with summer temperatures soaring towards 45 degrees C. The winter temperature is far more hospitable, with a minimum of around 5 degrees C. The eastern section falls into the 150mm – 500mm rainfall range, triggering major changes in the vegetation structure.
About 405 plant species – including many endemic succulents, annuals and geophytes – have been identified so far. Together with 31 mammals – including Cape Mountain Zebra, Red Hartebeest and Gemsbok – and 105 bird species (18 of which are endemic to the Karoo), it’s a magnet for nature lovers.
Birders Hotspot
As for birders… if you are moved at the mention of Burchell’s courser, double-banded courser, the Karoo eremomela, black-eared finchlark, Karoo long-billed lark, Layard’s tit-babbler and black-headed canary; or if the greater kestrel, pale chanting goshawk, rock kestrel, black-breasted snake eagle, martial eagle, Ludwig’s bustard or Karoo korhaan does it for you, then it’s time to book your visit to the Tankwa Karoo National Park.
Breathtaking Gannaga Pass
Make a point of taking the journey up the breathtaking Gannaga Pass to the top of the 1600m Roggeveld escarpment. From here you will have the most unbelievable view of the Tankwa Karoo. Or take the Ouberg Pass, rising precipitously through 600m of Roggeveld escarpment in a series of heart-stopping switchbacks. This is not for the fainthearted, but once you are up there, the view is spectacular and you can head on to Sutherland for a night of stars and an alternative vista of the Succulent Karoo.
New Infrastructure for Tourism
Designated a Scientific National Park, it has mostly been visited by scientists, botanists and ecologists. However, an increasing number of tourists are interested in taking the four-hour drive from Cape Town to explore the Tankwa Karoo. Accordingly, the park is expanding its infrastructure and tourists simply need to contact the park to book in advance.
Two well-appointed self-catering cottages in the park are available (sleeping 4-6 people) at R260 per night for the first 2 people and R80 per additional person. A five-cottage camp is also currently under construction, to be completed around September 2007.
When to Visit
The best time to visit is the cooler months; spring is first prize because it not only offers a special opportunity to see the flowers between August and October; it is also when birding is at its peak. Bear in mind though, that the majority of birder specials may be seen all year round. However, the park offers so much in geology, open spaces and mind blowing views that a visit is well worth it throughout the year.
Please note that a little caution is required on the gravel roads through this region as the closest town is Middelpos, some 50 kilometres from the park headquarters.
What to Bring
Visitors must give plenty of thought to their food, fuel and water needs; pack a full jerry can if your engine is thirsty and make sure your spare tyre is intact. Bring binoculars, birding and plant books, firelighters, wood and insect repellent.
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