NEED TO KNOW
LOCATION Karoo National Park is located in south-central South Africa, 300 miles (500 km) northeast of Cape Town
VISITORS PER YEAR
Close to 100,000
DAYTIME TEMPERATURES
Jan: 84°F (29°C); Apr: 81°F (27°C); Jul: 66°F (19°C); Oct: 63°F (17°C)
Where should one go in South Africa to see as much of its famed flora and fauna as possible, up close and personal? Just head to Karoo National Park – which has it all, and in abundance. The park is embedded within the wild and unforgiving area known as the Great Karoo, the country’s largest – and most diverse – ecosystem. Much of the park’s wildlife is specially adapted to the harsh environment, and thanks to conservation programs, many species of endangered game have returned to call it home. You can see these from the relative comfort and safety of your 4WD.
Practical Information
Getting There and Around You’ll need a 4WD to make the most of this rugged national park. While trekking is allowed in a few spots, for the most part, visitors must stay with their vehicles.
When to Go The best time for a visit is any time between August and February.