Mokala National Park is the newest park in South African National Parks, located about 80km south-southwest of Kimberley and to the west of the N12 freeway leading to Cape Town. Situated among the hills, Mokala’s scenery features an array of koppieveld (hills) and expansive open plains.
The isolated dolerite hills impart a serene sense of isolation to the area. A significant surprise lies in store as you traverse the hills and encounter the expansive sandy plains to the north and west of the Park. Drainage lines originating from the hills create small tributaries that flow into the plains and ultimately drain into the Riet River.
Mokala is the Setswana term for a Camel Thorn (Kameeldoring). These trees are found in dry forests and arid, sandy regions, representing one of the primary tree species in the desert areas of Southern Africa. This highly significant species exhibits a considerable range across the Northern Cape, varying from a diminutive, spiny shrub that reaches just 2m in height to a tree that can grow up to 16m tall, featuring a broad, spreading crown.
What to see in Mokala National Park
Wildlife
In Mokala National Park, you can anticipate encountering a variety of wildlife, including black and white rhinos, Tsessebe, Roan Antelope, Mountain Reedbuck, Giraffes, Gemsbok, Eland, Zebras, Red Hartebeest, Blue Wildebeest, Black Wildebeest, Kudu, Ostriches, Steenbok, Duiker, and Springbok.
Birds
Mokala National Park, recently designated as a park, presents an exciting opportunity for birders to explore and contribute to mapping the birding profile of this newly discovered area.
Mokala National Park boasts a diverse array of bird species, situated in the transitional area between the Kalahari and Karoo biomes. Among the birds that can be observed are the Kalahari species, the black-chested prinia, its Karoo counterpart, the rufous-eared warbler, and the melodious lark. The rugged hillocks that define the park draw in species like the vocal freckled nightjar, short-toed rock thrush, and cinnamon-breasted bunting.
Trails in Mokala National Park
Haak-en-Steek Camp Trail
The Haak-en-Steek Camp Trail in Mokala covers a distance of 5 to 10 km (3 to 6 mi) and presents an easy to moderate level of difficulty. It meanders through hills and plains, presenting vistas of Bakenskop, the bushveld, and verdant expanses. Hikers might observe antelope, giraffes, and various birds feeding on the plains and around the adjacent waterhole. Zebras often frequent the Haak-en-Steek watering hole. Mokala National Park. Zebras are common visitors at the Haak-en-Steek watering hole.
Lilydale Rest Camp Trail
The Lilydale Rest Camp Trail covers a distance of 7 km (4 mi) on easy, walkable terrain. Starting at the Lilydale Rest Camp, the trail leads hikers through diverse ecosystems within the park, including riverine forests, dense acacia groves, and grasslands, all teeming with wildlife. As they make their way, walkers encounter the Riet River and can take in the sights of the adjacent hills of Kook Fontein, Die Krans, and Marokskop. Vast, open spaces surrounding the Lilydale watering hole close to the Lilydale Rest Camp. Bernard DUPONT, CC BY-SA 2.0, through Wikimedia Commons
Mellifera and Merakeng Trails
The Mellifera Trail is a double track that, together with the Merakeng Trail, diverts from the main roads to offer a more immersive experience in the park’s landscape. The route spans 7 km (4 mi) and necessitates that visitors obtain a permit before embarking on their exploration. The path meanders through the koppieveld hills and vast open plains. The sparse dolerite hills stand in stark contrast to the expansive sandy plains that dominate the northern and western areas of the park.
Getting to Mokala National Park
By Road:
Sedan vehicles may not be appropriate for all park roads after rainfall in the region.
In the rainy season, we must close certain internal roads of the park to ensure the safety of our guests. This will directly affect the road connecting Mosu Lodge to Lilydale Rest Camp. The alternative route will take you along the N12 to reach either of the camps.
Visitors to Mokala should ensure they plan their journeys to arrive at the main gates prior to the closure times. The main gates are not staffed around the clock, so it is advisable to arrive on time to avoid any disappointment from encountering a locked gate.
Guests with reservations for the Tree House, Motswedi camping site, and Haak-en-Steek are advised to check in at reception no later than one hour before the main gate closing times to allow for travel time to the various camps. It is not allowed to drive around outside the designated gate opening and closure times. Upon your arrival, you will receive information regarding the internal camp gate times, which may vary based on the season.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Kimberly International. Car rental services can be found at the airport. A private landing strip is also located in the park.
