Exotic Rock Desert

A five-star 4x4 adventure route exploring the only rock desert in Southern Africa.

The Richtersveld is a desert landscape characterised by rugged kloofs and high mountains, situated in the north-western corner of the Northern Cape province. These are dramatic landscapes. The Richtersveld is regarded as the only arid biodiversity hotspot on earth and most of the area is inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List due to its cultural values.

Approximately 4 849 plant species, 40 percent of which are endemic, have been documented in the Richtersveld and comprise mainly of succulent and aloe species. The area is home to several unusual plants, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. Chief among these is the "Halfmens"(Pachypodium namaquanum ).These trees are revered by the indigenous Nama people as the embodiment of their ancestors, half human, half plant, mourning for their ancient Namibian home. Also found here are three endemic species of the tree aloe Aloidendron: A. dichotomum, A. pillansii and A. ramosissimum, referred to as "kokerbome" or "quiver trees".

On our journey we are accompanied by one of the best-informed guides in Namaqualand. Don’t be surprised if you spend more time on all fours, searching for succulents, than in your 4x4.

• Total distance: 750 km

• Distance between fuel stations: 150 – 200 km

• Terrain: Rock, riverbed, gravel road, mountain pass

• Starts: Klein Pella

• Ends: Port Nolloth

• Includes: Morning coffee with rusk, brunch, dinner, camping fees, permits, 2-way radios & hot shower (evening only)

• Excludes: Beverages, snacks and restrooms facilities

• Maximum: 12 vehicles

• Minimum: 16 adults