Natural landmark
Valley of Desolation
Graaff-Reinet · Sarah Baartman
Sheer dolerite columns rising above the Karoo plains inside Camdeboo National Park, a short drive from the centre of Graaff-Reinet.
About Valley of Desolation
The valley is a national monument and the signature view of Camdeboo National Park, which almost completely surrounds the town of Graaff-Reinet. Erosion has stripped away the softer rock and left towering columns of dolerite standing above the valley floor.
A tarred road climbs from the park gate to the viewpoints, so it is reachable in an ordinary car. Late afternoon is the classic time to go: the light turns the rock orange and you look straight down onto Graaff-Reinet and out across the Camdeboo plains.
What to expect
- A short surfaced drive from Graaff-Reinet to the viewpoints
- Viewing platforms and a marked walk along the rim
- Sunset views over the town, the Nqweba Dam and the open Karoo
- Park entry through SANParks at the Camdeboo gate
Activities
Scenic driveRim walkSunset viewingPhotography
