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The Richtersveld, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The plant life of the Richtersveld is special and unique. The area has the highest diversity of succulent plants in the world. No wonder then that it is a World Heritage Site consisting of three biomes – desert, succulent Karoo, and fynbos.

Explore the Richtersveld with Rey Janse van Rensburg

There are many sleep-over camping tours available in the Richtersveld, but none as unique as that of the legendary Rey Janse van Rensburg. We joined Rey on two such tours (yes, you will want to go back too!) and experienced first-hand his love and attachment to the area where he grew up as a child. Not being a camper myself, I can only say it is totally worth it. Having started out as a reluctant camper, I ended up being a happy camper!

Consequently, it comes as no surprise that South African National Parks also approached Rey as a stakeholder to participate in the 2018 – 2028 Park Management Plan process for the Richtersveld National Park.

4 x 4 in the Richtersveld

Rey is also known as the rugged bad boy of 4×4 destinations in the Richtersveld, which we experienced for ourselves. Whether you own a 4 x 4 vehicle or not (he provides vehicles that he personally checks and approves), you too can experience this extraordinary bucket list experience.

Contact Rey: vansphotos@mweb.co.za or Babs:catnap@mweb.co.za

Plantlife in the Richtersveld, Northern Cape

Kokerboom

The ‘Kokerboom’ (Afrikaans common name) has hollow root-like branches which were used by the San people as quivers for their arrows. Thereby naming the tree also the Quiver Tree (English common name). 

You’ll find them in the Northern Cape region of South Africa. Specifically in the Richtersveld, such as our photograph. Also, in parts of Southern Namibia.

Richtersveld, Kokerboom Quiver tree Aloidendron dichotomum
Aloidendron dichotomum is a succulent plant, indigenous to Southern Africa.

Gifmelkbos, Kukumakranka

We were extremely lucky to have seen a Kukumakranka in bloom. The Kukumakranka is a rare plant and to see it in bloom, was putting the cherry on top!

Halfmens Boom

Richtersveld Halfmens 1118

From a distance, the succulent plant has the appearance of a person trudging up a slope. Hence its common name of Halfmens (Afrikaans for ‘semi-human’).

Unique Afrikaans common names

The unparalleled vast Richtersveld landscape, with some rocks up to 2000 million years old, offers an unending terrain of natural wonders.

The adventure starts here (video)

Plan your trip to the Richtersveld

Nearest airport

Generally, the Richtersveld Challenge tours’ wheels start turning from Springbok. You have two airport choices:

  1. Upington International Airport (UTN) is about a 3h40min drive (381 km) from Springbok. The small towns of Keimoes, Kakamas, Pofadder, and Aggeneys have their own character and are worthy leg-stretchers on your journey.
  2. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is further away at 583 km. Clanwilliam is a good idea for a refreshment break during the 6h10min drive. You will also pass the quant town of Klawer, beautiful Vanrhynsdorp, Nuwerus, Garies, and Kamieskroon.

Don’t you just love it when you only need to contact one person, and everything is sorted? When you make your reservations for the Richtersveld Challenge, also ask for their self-catering guesthouse.

Cat Nap accommodation is in the center of Springbok. Namely, 99 Voortrekker Street, Springbok.

It’s best to book in advance. 

Contact Rey: vansphotos@mweb.co.za or Babs:catnap@mweb.co.za

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