Karoo National Park : Located a few kilometers away from the Northern Cape of South Africa, Karoo National Park was opened in 1986 covering over 80,000 hectares. Karoo National Park is also known as Tankwa Karoo National Park. This spot overlooks the stunning Nuweveld Mountains and serves as a sanctuary of calm and serenity, enabling visitors to fully appreciate themselves in executing Karoo landscape.
What to see in Karoo National Park
Mammals.
Karoo National Park is a home to a variety of mammals approximately to 63 different species including; The cape Mountain Zebra, The Burchell’s Zebra, The bat eared fox, Black rhinos (rare), Wildebeest, Lions (rare), Elands, Red hartebeest, The Klipspringer and many more
Birds
Karoo National Park is also a birder’s haven with over 200 bird species recorded in the park such as
- The black stork
- The Acacia pied barbet
- The cape robin chat
- The African rock pipit
- The Karoo Eremomela (near endemic)
- Ludwig’s bustard
- Common swift
- Chestnut vented warbler
- Karoo long billed lark (near endemic)
- Chat flycatcher
- The Booted eagle
- Verraux’s eagle
- Karoo bustard (near endemic)
- Cinnamon breasted warbler (near endemic)
- Yellow billed Eremomela
- South African shelduck
South African shelduck - Namaqua warbler (near endemic)
- Pririt Batis
- Short toed rock thrush
- The sickle winged chat
- Tractrac chat
- Pale winged starling among others.
Things to do in Karoo National Park
Game drives
The Karoo National Park does not have a lot of wildlife, so it is not the best place for tourists looking for an adventure with game drives and game viewing. The majority of the animals found in the Karoo have only recently been reintroduced, making it difficult to see them; however, you may be fortunate enough to get a clear view of some of them. The best time to go for animal viewing in the Karoo is during the cooler months of May to September, and a few of the animals that you can find in Karoo National Park
Birding
The Karoo National Park is home to over 200 bird species in the country and is a popular birding destination for tourists. The Karoo National Park is well known for its large population of Verreaux’s eagles, among other bird species. The best time to visit the Karoo National Park for birding is from November to April, when migratory birds enter the park. The majority of the bird species in the Karoo National Park breed near the dam, including the notable bird species.
Best Time to visit Karoo National Park
The Karoo National Park has a semi-arid climate, distinct from many other national parks in South Africa. Therefore, the ideal time to visit the park largely depends on the activities you wish to engage in during your stay.
The National Park is open for visits year-round, but the most suitable period for game drives and hiking is from May to September. For birdwatchers, the ideal time is between November and April, when migratory birds arrive in the park.
Getting to Karoo National Park
The park can be accessed by using road and air.
By Road:
Karoo Park is conveniently situated along the routes to South Africa‘s main towns, Johannesburg and Cape Town, facilitating easy access. Karoo National Park is a great way to explore the Karoo region.
By Air:
There is an airport near the National Park where you can land after flying from Cape Town, which is approximately 500 kilometers away, or Johannesburg, which is 1000 kilometers away.
Where to Stay Karoo National Park
Accommodation facilities within or around the Karoo National Park each have their own specific rules and regulations, particularly regarding cancellation policies and payment options. There are three types of accommodation facilities: budget-friendly, mid-range, and luxurious hotels. The type you choose will ultimately depend on your budget. Regardless of the hotel you select, it is advisable to choose and book early, particularly during peak seasons, to ensure easy access to the National Park.
Karoo Heart
This location is situated 6 kilometers from the National Park, with an average nightly rate of 70 US dollars per person, and offers self-catering accommodation. The Karoo Heart features an apartment layout with self-contained rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, a television equipped with satellite channels, and a kitchen for preparing your own meals. Since 2016, it has been in operation, featuring a garden where you can relax while eating a barbeque.
Cape Karoo Guest House
The Cape Karoo Guest House is situated at the boundary of the Karoo National Park, with its original construction dating back to 1902. The facility features self-contained rooms, Wi-Fi, private parking, dining options, a swimming pool, pet-friendly policies, a bar, and a museum that offers insights into its history, along with a shop for souvenirs during your safari experience. The average price for each room at the Cape Karoo Guest House is 35 US dollars.
French Karoo Guest House
The French Karoo Guest House is situated a mere 4.9 kilometers from the Karoo National Park, with an average nightly rate of 41 US dollars for a room. The accommodation offers a complete experience for tourists, featuring complimentary private parking, a swimming pool accessible to all guests, including children, and a restaurant that serves both local and international dishes, all complemented by exceptional service.
The Lemoenfontein Game Lodge
The Lemoenfontein Game Lodge is situated approximately 4.4 kilometers from the Karoo National Park. The property features an outdoor garden perfect for relaxation, self-contained rooms, a swimming pool, and meal options available. Each room is priced at an average of 52 US dollars per night.
Bakgat Blyplek
This location is merely 5 kilometers from the National Park and stands out as one of the few accommodation options frequently chosen by tourists visiting Karoo National Park. They offer self-contained rooms, serve meals featuring both local and international cuisines, provide Wi-Fi for all guests, and include free parking space. A room at the Bakgat Blyplek is priced at an average of 35 US dollars per nightt.
