Visiting Tankwa Karoo National Park, South Africa

1 day ago
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This is one of the most arid sections in the Karoo and one of the most peaceful and beautiful National Parks in South Africa.

During March and April 2026, we took a two month road trip through South Africa and one of the places we visited was this beautiful, desolated park.

But, I have to be honest with you. This was also one of the most challenging drives we have done in SA. This is due to the corrugation on the dirt road making it nearly impossible to drive.

Was it worth it though? Absolutely.

WHERE IS THE TANKWA NATIONAL PARK

The park is situated on the boarders of the Northern Cape and Western Cape Province in South Africa. It's about 320km from Cape Town. It spans over 146,000 hectares of land and is surrounded by the Roggeveld and Cederberg Mountains.

It is named after the Tankwa River that runs through the park.

OUR STAY

We stayed in a wonderful Cottage called, De Zyfer Cottage. It's an old stone cottage, with no electricity. Water is heated through a donkey heating system and the fridge is run on solar power. There is also no mobile reception or internet. The perfect place to escape the busy world.

The sunset was gorgeous and our morning sunrise run even more spectacular.

IS THERE A CHARGE TO ENTER THE PARK?

Yes, both South African Residence and International visitors have to pay a daily charge.

For Citizens and Residence it's about R60 and for Internationals it's about R270. For children it costs less.

IS THERE OTHER ACCOMODATION?

I believe there are 5 different accommodation options, including camping sites and the De Zyfer Cottage mentioned above.

WHAT TO DO IN THE PARK

4x4 Trails
Game Watching
Mountain Biking
Stargazing - As it's literally in the middle of now where you can experience the most amazing night sky.
Scenic Viewpoints
Birding - There are reported over 180 recorded bird species