Karoo National Park: All 4x4 trails temporarily closed! [update]

update (05 May 2025): The 4x4 trails in Karoo National Park have been re-opened. However, some sections have been damaged, particularly the low water bridges. SANParks requests that guests be extra vigilant when crossing these.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the temporary closure of all 4x4 trails in Karoo National Park due to recent heavy rainfall. This decision has been made to prioritize visitor safety and preserve the condition of the off-road routes. Park management appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation during this time.

The affected 4x4 routes include:

• Nuweveld Trail (90km)
• Afsaal Trail (13km)
• Kookfontein Loop (7km)
• Sandrivier Loop (7km)
• Klipplaatsfontein Trail
• Pienaars Pass Trail (6km)

These six trails offer a unique way to experience the rugged beauty of the Karoo landscape, but will remain closed until conditions improve and they are deemed safe for travel.

Situated just outside Beaufort West in South Africa’s Western Cape, Karoo National Park spans approximately 767 km² and forms part of the vast Great Karoo. The park is renowned for its dramatic semi-arid scenery, unique wildlife, and exceptional biodiversity.
Visitors can spot a variety of species, including Cape mountain zebra, Black rhino, Eland, red hartebeest, and springbok, lions and brown hyenas, nocturnal species such as the aardvark
Birdwatchers will enjoy sightings of Verreaux’s eagle, Karoo korhaan, and numerous other bird species. The vegetation is dominated by succulents, acacias, and other drought-resistant plants typical of the region.

Karoo National Park offers a wide range of visitor amenities and outdoor activities, including:

• Self-catering chalets, cottages, and a camping site
• Scenic drives, hiking trails, and 4x4 routes
• Interpretive centers and viewpoints ideal for photography and wildlife observation

While the 4x4 trails are temporarily inaccessible, Karoo National Park remains open to the public with plenty of other opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Addo Elephant National Park: Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail closed until further notice! [update #2]

update (15 May 2024): The Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail in Addo Elephant National Park was recently re-opened.

update (21 February 2024): According to SANParks, the Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail in Addo Elephant National Park is still closed

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail in Addo Elephant National Park will be closed for a considerable period going forward. A section of the trail washed away during the last rains and will take some time to be repaired. SANParks further announced that bookings for both the Mvubu camp site and Kabouga Cottage, the two accommodation options along the Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail, are also closed until further notice. We'll keep you posted!
The Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail is located between the Kabouga and Darlington areas of Addo Elephant National Park. The trail travels through a variety of vegetation types, from riverine thicket, to afromontane forest, to fynbos on the peaks and into the arid nama-karoo of the Darlington area. The route, which is only suitable for vehicles with 4x4 and low range facilities, is self-driven and can only be driven as a one-way, starting from Kabouga and ending at Darlington. Kabouga is situated about 40 km (one hour's drive) from Addo Elephant National Park' main entrance, near the town of Kirkwood. Darlington is situated about 150 km (two hour's drive) from the main park entrance. The Bedrogfontein 4x4 trail has a length of 45km and is graded 2-3. It can be easily traveled within six hours. Accommodation is available at the Mvubu campsite or at the Kabouga Cottage - both on the Kabouga side of the trail.

great digiguide from Getaway Mag: 4x4 trails in South Africa

South Africa’s vast landscapes are an explorer’s paradise, but reaching beautiful spots often requires an off-road vehicle and some deft driving ability. Here is Getaway’s round-up of ultimate 4x4 trails in South Africa and overland adventures north of South Africa's borders. Also, industry guru Andrew St. Pierre White has handy tips to make the most of your trip.

some tourism news from Southern Africa

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