Valley Of Desolation in Graaff Reinet, Eastern Cape

About Valley Of Desolation

The Valley of Desolation in the Eastern Cape is a geological phenomenon; a sheer cliff face, declared a national monument that lies within the Camdeboo National Park.

Did you know? The Camdeboo National Park incorporates the Valley of Desolation, also known as the ‘cathedral of the mountains' for its piled dolerite columns that stand like sentries against the plains of the Groot Karoo. A product of erosion and volcanic forces, the views from in amongst these knobbly pillars extend over the town of Graaff-Reinet and the plains of the Camdeboo.

The Valley of Desolation is a unique Karoo landscape and ecosystem that surrounds the town of Graaff-Reinet, creating a type of oasis in the midst of the aridness of the Karoo.

The vertical cliffs and columns of dolerite that teeter precariously 120 metres above the valley floor are breathtaking. This unusual feature is the product of volcanic and erosive forces that have taken 100 million years to form. They stand sentry over a valley - huge isolated hobgoblins of nature, forcing those who view them to suspend time, if only for a moment, to contemplate the force and beauty of nature.

You're only 14 kilometres outside of Graaff-Reinet and yet the diversity of the fauna and flora is incredible and attracts 220 species of bird, 336 plants and 43 types of mammal. The Valley of Desolation invites one to stay awhile or to traverse its features and there are walking trails that range from an hour to overnight hikes, as well as picnic sites for those who simply want to gawp at the majestic precipices.

Graaff-Reinet is without doubt worth a visit just for the charmingly restored Karoo-style homes and the historical buildings; and the little hamlet of Nieu-Bethesda lures even the most cynical tourist to the Owl House - the tours never fail to impress and the camel yard to enchant.

The gate is reached 5km out of Graaff-Reinet on the R63 to Murraysburg. Day visitors are welcome and can make use of the game viewing area and the picnic sites.

Need to Know

WhereValley Of Desolation, Camdeboo National Park, Graff-Reinet, Karoo Heartland, Eastern Cape, South Africa

WhenBest during daylight hours.

Telephone+27 (0)49 892-3453

OvernightStay in Graaff Reinet Accommodation, Eastern Cape

Disclaimer

Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.

Feedback?

If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.