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About Tankwa Karoo National Park
Tankwa Karoo National Park Flora and Fauna
The Tankwa Karoo is home to a unique and diverse range of plant life. More than 3,500 different species of plants have been identified in the park, and new species are still being discovered. The park is particularly well-known for its large population of endemics (plants that are found nowhere else in the world). These include the rare Worcester mesemb (Lampranthus worcesteri), which is found only in a small area around the town of Worcester, as well as the Tankwa geranium (Geranium tankwense), which is found only in the vicinity of the park.
The wide variety of plant life in the Tankwa Karoo provides food and shelter for a wide range of animals, from small insects to large mammals. The park is home to more than 600 different species of animals, including some that are endangered or even extinct in other parts of South Africa.
Tankwa Karoo National Park is home to a surprisingly diverse range of animals, considering its arid landscape. Carnivores such as leopards, brown hyenas and cape foxes prowl the park in search of their next meal, while on the other end of the spectrum, plant-eating animals like klipspringers and porcupines can also be found here. The park is also home to a variety of animals, including antelope, zebra, eland, klipspringer, and ostrich. more than 200 bird species have been recorded in the park, including the endangered Cape vulture. Of course, no visit to Tankwa Karoo National Park would be complete without encountering some of its most iconic residents – the meerkats. These little creatures are not only adorable, but are also fascinating to watch as they go about their day-to-day lives.
Things to Do at Tankwa Karoo National Park
South Africa is blessed with an incredible diversity of plant life, and the Tankwa Karoo National Park is no exception. Here, you can find everything from rare succulents to large trees. There are over 1,500 species of plants in the park, so you’re sure to see something new and interesting. If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, make sure to pick up a plant identification guide from the visitor centre.
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If you're hoping to see some of South Africa's wildlife on your visit to Tankwa Karoo National Park, game viewing opportunities abound. The park is home to a variety of animals, including kudu, eland, and springbok. You can view wildlife from the comfort of your car on the park's many roads, or take a game drive with a ranger.
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One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Tankwa Karoo National Park is to take a drive along the Gannaga Pass. The pass winds its way through the mountains, offering stunning views of the landscapes below. It's a great place to stop and take in the scenery, and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
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Middelpos is a small town in the Tankwa Karoo National Park, and is one of the best places to experience the true Karoo. Middelpos is home to a small but thriving community, and there are plenty of things to do in town. There are several shops and restaurants in Middelpos, as well as a small museum. The museum is dedicated to the history of the town, and is well worth a visit. There are also several hiking trails in and around Middelpos, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Elandsberg Viewpoint is one of the most popular hiking trails in Tankwa Karoo National Park. The trailhead is located just off the R355, and the hike to the top of the Elandsberg mountain is a moderate 4km round trip. The trail is well-marked and takes you through some stunning landscapes, including fields of brightly-colored flowers in springtime. Once you reach the top of the mountain, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Tankwa Karoo.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or just getting started, Tankwa Karoo National Park is a great place to go birding. The park is home to more than 200 species of birds, including some of South Africa’s rarest and most endangered. There are two main birding routes in the park: the Kookfontein Route and the Nuwekloof Route. The Kookfontein Route is shorter and easier, while the Nuwekloof Route is longer and more challenging. Whichever route you choose, you’re sure to see some amazing birds.
Lodges and Camps in Tankwa Karoo National Park
Elandsberg Cottages offers overnight accommodation in four self-catering cottages, as well as a campsite with ablution facilities. The cottages sleep four people in two bedrooms, and each has a kitchen and living area. The campsite can accommodate up to eight people, and there are communal braai (barbecue) facilities.
Price: From R 868 per night, for 2 people
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Paulshoek Cottage, the only overnight accommodation in the Tankwa Karoo National Park, is a thatched, self-catering cottage situated at the edge of the Roggeveld Plateau. The cottage has two bedrooms and can accommodate up to six people. It provides a natural experience to visitors with the convenience of restaurants and shops.
Price: From R 111 per night, for 6 people
De Zyfer Farm Cottage is a thatched farmhouse situated on a working Checkers fruit farm in the Tankwa Karoo National Park. The cottage has two bedrooms and can accommodate up to four people. The cottage has a fully equipped kitchen, a living room with a fireplace, and a veranda with views of the surrounding mountains. There is also a braai area and a swimming pool.
De Zyfer Farm Cottage is the perfect base for exploring the Tankwa Karoo National Park. It is situated close to the hiking trails and nature reserve, and is also close to the Ceres Zipline Adventures.
Price: From R 930 per night, for 6 people
The Tanqua Guesthouse Complex is the perfect base from which to explore the Tankwa Karoo National Park. The complex consists of four different lodges, each with its own unique character. It is ideal for families or groups of friends, as it offers a self-catering option. The lodge has its own swimming pool and braai area, and there are plenty of activities nearby, such as hiking, bird watching and stargazing.
Price: From R 616 per night, for 2 people
Varschfontein Cottage was originally the farmhouse of the Varschfontein sheep farm, which was incorporated into the Park in 1991. It has been refurbished to provide comfortable self-catering accommodation for up to eight people. The cottage has four bedrooms (two double rooms and two twin rooms), a kitchen, lounge and dining room, and a braai area. There is also a swimming pool for guests to use.
Price: From R 825 per night, for 2 people
Langkloof Camp is situated in the Langkloof Valley, east of the Ceres-Matroosberg Mountain range. The campsite has 10 large sites, each with a maximum capacity of six people. There is a communal ablution block with flush toilets and hot showers. Braai (barbecue) facilities are provided and wood can be purchased from the camp warden. A Recreational Hall is available for use by overnight visitors and can be hired for functions.
Price: From R 420 per night, for 2 people
Plan Your Visit to Tankwa Karoo National Park
How to Reach
- By Rail- By rail, the quickest way to get to the park is to take the N7 line from Cape Town, which will get you there in just under four hours. If you're coming from Johannesburg, you can either take the R30 line straight to Calvinia or switch to the N1 line at Beaufort West and get off at Matjiesfontein; both routes will take around seven hours.
- By Road- You can also reach the park by road, either by taking the N1 from Cape Town (which will take around five hours) or the R27 from Calvinia (which will take around four and a half hours).
Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit Tankwa Karoo National Park is from April to September, when the temperatures are cooler and there is little rainfall. However, the park can be visited year-round, as long as you are prepared for the hot, dry conditions in summer (October to March).
Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat when visiting the park. You should also wear comfortable shoes and clothing that will protect you from the sun. If you plan on hiking or camping in the park, be sure to bring appropriate gear.
Be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Hiking boots are recommended.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you’re hiking in warm weather.
Stick to well-marked trails and beware of slippery rocks or loose gravel.
Be alert for wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. Do not approach or attempt to touch any animals you see.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times and pay attention to any changes in the weather. If thunderstorms are forecast, seek shelter immediately.
FAQ's of Tankwa Karoo National Park
What activities can we do at Tankwa Karoo National Park camps?
Hiking
River Rafting
Star gazing
Free Guided Walking
Forest Walking and Day Walking
Paragliding
Rocks or Sports Climbing
Road Cycling and Mountain Biking
Picnics
How many days do you need in Tankwa Karoo National Park?
To make the most of your time, we recommend spending at least 3 days in the park. This will give you enough time to explore the different landscapes and spot some of the wildlife. If you're interested in doing some longer hikes, you may want to stay for 5 days or more.
What is the best time of year to visit Tankwa Karoo National Park?
The best time of year to visit Tankwa Karoo National Park depends on what you're hoping to see and do while you're there. If you're interested in wildlife spotting, the best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September), when animals are concentrated around water sources. However, if you're more interested in exploring the park's landscapes and hiking through its valleys and mountains, the best time to visit is during the wet season (October to April), when the vegetation is lush and green.
Which are the best places to visit around Tankwa Karoo National Park?
The Gannaga Pass
The Voëlhokskeerl Waterfalls
The Cango Caves
The Valley of Desolation
The Klein Karoo Nature Reserve
Travel Guide
Lodges