The Karoo National Park, founded in 1979, is a wildlife reserve in the Great Karoo area of the Western Cape, South Africa near Beaufort West. This semi-desert area covers an area of 750 square kilometres.
The Nuweveld portion of the Great Escarpment runs through the Park. It is therefore partly in the Lower Karoo, at about 850 m above sea level, and partly in the Upper Karoo at over 1300 m altitude.
Guests arriving at the Karoo National Park just outside of Beaufort West do so generally with one thing in mind: exploring. An elephantine ecosystem and home to a collection of fossils dating back millions of years, the Karoo park plays host to fascinating cross section of specially adapted species, capable of surviving the area’s harsh climate.
Sunsets drenched in rose-amber hues are framed by the lofty Nuweveld Mountains and neighbouring plains. Many of the park’s endemic species have been relocated to their former ranges, such as black rhino and buffalo, as well as Cape mountain zebra, while over twenty breeding pairs of black eagle are to be found within the park.
Lions were reintroduced into the park in 2010 – the first lions in the Karoo in 170 years. Other predators include leopard, caracal, black-backed jackal, Cape fox, bat-eared fox and several mongoose species.
The Fossil Trail is a must for all visitors to the Karoo National Park. It is even accessible to wheelchair users, and makes for a great group outing.
It is only 400m long, but it encompasses the geology and palaeontology of the Great Karoo perfectly. It is an educational experience and can be done at your preferred pace, as information is shared via huge placards.
There are two picnic sites in the park which are perfect for taking some time out. Here you can simply enjoy the scenery, whilst enjoying a meal or having a ‘braai’ (barbecue).
The Bulkraal picnic area has a large swimming pool which can be enjoyed by visitors and is a great way to cool down after a long day in the Karoo heat.
The park offers various 4×4 eco-trails as well as self-drive opportunities. Whenever the need for adventure arises, you can hop into the car and explore the roads.
The routes vary in terms of difficulty degrees covering rocky ridges and sandy sections. Your African Sky guide will make sure that you explore all the best roads.
Where to stay
Camp Site (CK6P)
Chalet (CH2/4)
Chalet (CH2/4Z)
Cottage (CO3)