/Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park update: Sendelingsdrift pontoon ferry closed!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has temporarily closed the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park due to high water levels in the Orange River. Visitors planning to enter the park are advised to use the Alexander Bay gravel road as an alternative route to reach Sendelingsdrift.

The Sendelingsdrift border post is a vital gateway to the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, a remote and rugged wilderness straddling the South Africa - Namibia border. Known for its dramatic desert landscapes, unique flora, and panoramic scenery, the park attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

The pontoon ferry at Sendelingsdrift offers an adventurous and scenic way to cross the Orange River, but its operation is water-level dependent. Currently, extreme conditions have necessitated its closure.

Travellers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time. For those seeking adventure in one of Southern Africa’s most striking desert landscapes, the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park remains accessible via alternative routes.

 

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/Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: Sendelingsdrift pontoon ferry reopens!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the pontoon ferry at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park will be fully operational again from 20 August 2025.

The Sendelingsdrift border post serves as a key entry point into the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, which spans the border between South Africa and Namibia. Known for its rugged mountain desert landscapes, dramatic canyons, and rare succulent flora, the park is a dream destination for 4x4 adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers.
A unique highlight of this border post is the pontoon ferry across the Orange River, offering travellers a scenic and memorable way to enter or exit the park with their vehicles. The crossing is especially popular with overlanders travelling between South Africa's west coast and Namibia. However, the pontoon service is subject to river conditions and may close temporarily during extreme water levels.

With the reopening date set for 20 August 2025, travellers can once again enjoy this one-of-a-kind border experience while exploring one of Southern Africa’s most remote and beautiful conservation areas.

 

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SANParks: Tatasberg Wilderness Camp in the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park reopens to visitors from 01 August 2025! [update]

update (02 August 2025): The road between De Hoop and Richtersberg is open and accessible for visitors. 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Tatasberg Wilderness Camp in the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park will be open and operational from today, 01 August 2025. However, the road between De Hoop and Richtersberg remains closed until further notice. The alternative route via Maerpoort pass can be used in the meantime. 

The Tatasberg Wilderness Camp, located within sight of the Orange River, was closed since May 2025 due to flooding. The Camp is eautifully constructed of natural materials that blend into the surrounds. The uniquely designed chalets have their own design, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom and are fully equipped with cooking utensils, cutlery, linen and fridge/freezer. Solar panels provide light and gas geysers provide hot water. 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has officially confirmed that the Tatasberg Wilderness Camp in the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park has reopened and is fully operational as of 01 August 2025.
This scenic and remote wilderness retreat had been closed since May 2025 due to severe flooding, but is now once again welcoming guests to experience its rugged beauty and tranquil riverside setting.
However, please note that the road between De Hoop and Richtersberg remains closed until further notice. Visitors are advised to use the alternative route via Maerpoort Pass to reach the area safely.

Tatasberg Wilderness Camp is perched above the Orange River, offering breathtaking views and a deep sense of solitude. Each chalet is uniquely designed and constructed from natural materials that harmonize with the surrounding desert landscape.

The camp offers:

• Fully equipped kitchens with gas stoves, fridge/freezers, and all cooking utensils
• Comfortable bedrooms with linen provided
• En-suite bathrooms with hot water supplied by gas geysers
• Solar-powered lighting for a low-impact eco-friendly stay
• Private patios with braai facilities, ideal for relaxing under the stars

This self-catering wilderness camp is perfect for 4×4 travellers seeking an off-grid experience in one of South Africa’s most striking and untouched environments.

Please keep in mind that a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is essential for reaching Tatasberg Wilderness Camp due to the rugged terrain and current route diversions. 

 

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South Africa: /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park camps reopen as Orange River water levels drop!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the partial reopening of several camps in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, following a significant drop in Orange River water levels. The camps were temporarily closed in April and earlier in May 2025 due to flooding.

Reopened camps now available for bookings:

• Pooitjiespram Camp
• De Hoop Campsite (Sections A & C)

These camps are once again accessible to visitors and open for  reservations.

The following camps and facilities that were impacted by the flooding remain closed:

• The Pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post
• De Hoop Campsite (Block B)
• Richtersberg Camp
• Tattasberg Wilderness Camp

SANParks continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as conditions improve. Visitors planning to travel to the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park are encouraged to check the latest park alerts and availability before making arrangements.

Orange River flooding impacts /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: What travellers need to know!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued an important update for travellers planning to visit the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Due to rising water levels of the Orange River since April 2025, several camps and operations within the park are directly impacted by flooding.

See below the current predicted timeframe for closure of camps based on estimation of previous experiences:

• Tattasberg: Closed from April to July 2025. Decision pending water level decrease; road repairs may take time.
• Richtersberg: Closed from April to July 2025. Reassessment once the water level decreases.
• De Hoop:
• Block A: Closed in May 2025.
• Block B & C: Closed from April to June 2025. Review upon water level decrease.
• Potjiespram: Blocks A-C closed in May 2025. Reassessment pending water level decrease.

The following camps remain fully operational and open for visitors

• Sendelingsdrift Campsite and Chalets
• Gannakouriep Wilderness Rest Camp
• Kokerboomkloof Camp

The pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is closed since March 2025 and remains closed until further notice due to the high Orange River water levels.

If your travel plans are impacted, SANParks provides the following options without any modification fees:

• Alternative Accommodation (no modification fee)
• Credit on Hand (C.O.H) reschedule booking
• Full Refund

For assistance with your booking, please contact the officials at /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.

Namibia: Fish River Canyon hiking season 2025 postponed! [update]

update (05 May 2025): Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) has officially reopened the Fish River Canyon trail as of 01 May 2025, following a thorough assessment and consultations with key stakeholders. Despite water levels being higher than usual this season, the iconic hiking route is now open and considered safe for experienced adventurers.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience, NWR issues the following important guidelines:

• All hikers are strongly encouraged to hire experienced guides, or
• Must have prior canyon hiking experience.

NWR emphasizes the importance of proper preparation and safety precautions for anyone planning to embark on the Fish River Canyon trail.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), the official state-owned operator of tourism facilities in Namibia’s protected areas, has announced the postponement of the 2025 Fish River Canyon hiking season, which is usually scheduled to start on 01 May. The delay is due to unusually high water levels in the canyon, raising safety concerns for hikers.
According to NWR, this change currently affects bookings scheduled to arrive up to 15 May 2025. Guests with reservations during this period are being offered the option to postpone their trip or request a refund, in accordance with NWR’s standard terms and conditions.

The Fish River Canyon is located within the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, a cross-border peace park shared between Namibia and South Africa. It holds the title of Africa’s largest canyon and is often considered the second-largest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in the USA.
The Fish River Canyon hiking trail is one of Africa’s most famous multi-day hikes. Spanning approximately 85 kilometers, the route typically takes 4 to 5 days to complete. The trail begins at Hobas, located on the canyon rim, and ends at the soothing Ai-Ais Hot Springs Spa.
The Fish River Canyon hike is only open during the cooler months, generally from 01 May to mid-September, due to extreme summer temperatures and the risk of flash flooding. The trail is closed for the rest of the year for safety reasons.

Important hiking requirements:

• Advance booking is mandatory through Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR)
• All hikers must present a medical certificate of fitness, signed by a qualified doctor
• Solo hiking is not permitted – the minimum group size is three people

If you’ve booked a hike with arrival dates between 01 May 2025 and, as of now, 15 May 2025, you can:

• Reschedule your booking to a later date during the 2025 season
• Request a refund, subject to NWR’s booking policies

/Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: 95 unleaded fuel pump out of order at Sendelingsdrift Rest Camp! [update]

update (07 May 2025): The 95 unleaded fuel pump has been restored and is in full working order.

South African National Parks (SANParks) announced on 20 April 2025 that the 95 unleaded fuel pump at Sendelingsdrift Rest Camp in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is currently out of order until further notice. Travellers are advised to refuel at the nearest town before entering the park to avoid any inconvenience.

If you need fuel before visiting the park, the closest petrol stations outside /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park are:

• Alexander Bay, South Africa – Located approximately 80 km from Sendelingsdrift, this town offers fuel services, including unleaded petrol.
• Rosh Pinah, Namibia – Situated about 25 km from Sendelingsdrift, Rosh Pinah has fuel stations available.

In addition, the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post is currently closed due to rising water levels in the Orange River. Travellers planning to cross between South Africa and Namibia via Sendelingsdrift should consider alternative routes.

/Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: 95 unleaded fuel pump out of order at Sendelingsdrift Rest Camp! [update]

update (28 March 2025): SANParks has confirmed dthat the unleaded 95 fuel problem has been resolved at Sendelingsdrift Rest Camp in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the 95 unleaded fuel pump at Sendelingsdrift Rest Camp in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is currently out of order until further notice. Travellers are advised to refuel at the nearest town before entering the park to avoid any inconvenience.

If you need fuel before visiting the park, the closest petrol stations outside /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park are:

• Alexander Bay, South Africa – Located approximately 80 km from Sendelingsdrift, this town offers fuel services, including unleaded petrol.
• Rosh Pinah, Namibia – Situated about 25 km from Sendelingsdrift, Rosh Pinah has fuel stations available.

In addition, the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post is currently closed due to rising water levels in the Orange River. Travellers planning to cross between South Africa and Namibia via Sendelingsdrift should consider alternative routes.

Stay tuned for updates on fuel availability and border access in the Richtersveld region. Safe travels!

/Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: Sendelingsdrift pontoon closed due to high Orange river levels! [update #2]

update (03 April 2025): SANParks just announced that the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park remains closed until further notice due to the high Orange River water levels. Visitors planning to enter the park should use the Alexander Bay gravel road to reach the Sendelingsdrift border post as an alternative route.

update (02 April 2025): South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park will be open and operational as normal from Friday, 04 April 2024.

The Pontoon operating times are:
Mondays to Sundays from 08h00 until 16h15 (as per normal immigration regulations for border posts that are not operational 24/7)

The Pontoon price tariffs also increase as from 01 April 2025:

• Categories Single Double Std Vehicle with 6 or less occupants R180.00 R310.00
• Std vehicle with 6 or less occupants and trailer R250.00 R360.00
• Overnight visitors to the park in standard vehicle with 6 or less occupants R130.00 R250.00
• Overnight visitors to the park in standard vehicle with 6 or less and trailer R180.00 R310.00
• Additional passengers or pedestrains R17.00 R34.00
• Busses or light Commercial overland vehicles with seating capacity of 20 or less R310.00 (R420.00)
• Motorcycles R70.00 R70.00
• Local Concessions of 16 crossings valid for 60 days and not transferable R1195.00 R0.00

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the immediate closure of the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park due to rising water levels in the Orange River. Visitors planning to enter the park should use the Alexander Bay gravel road to reach the Sendelingsdrift border post as an alternative route.

The Sendelingsdrift border post serves as a key entry point into the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, which spans the border between South Africa and Namibia. This remote, rugged wilderness is a haven for adventure seekers, offering dramatic desert landscapes, unique flora, and breathtaking scenery.
A highlight of this border post is the pontoon ferry, which allows vehicles to cross the Orange River in a scenic and adventurous way. However, the service is dependent on water levels and may close during extreme conditions, as is currently the case.
Travellers are encouraged to plan accordingly and check for updates on the reopening of the pontoon ferry. Stay tuned for further announcements!

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) issues fuel shortage update for key resorts! [update #5]

update (22 April 2025): As of 22 April 2025, Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) continues to experience fuel shortages at several of its key resorts, including Halali, Okaukuejo, Namutoni, Terrace Bay, Sesriem Campsite, /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs & Spa, and Waterberg. These shortages are attributed to delivery failures from their contracted supplier, Enercon, which has reportedly not supplied fuel to some resorts since January. The partnership between NWR and Enercon reportedly collapsed in 2023, yet Enercon continues to receive payments due to a controversial clause in their contract.

update (31 March 2025): According to the Namibian Sun, a daily Namibian newspaper, the fuel shortage at NWR resorts throughout Namibia is still ongoing and (now also) includes Terrace Bay Resort in the Skeleton Coast National Park. We'll keep you updated!

update (27 March 2025): As of 25 March 2025, the fuel situation has still not been resolved.

update (17 March 2025): The spokesperson for Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), Nelson Ashipala, confirmed on Friday (14 March 2025) that NWR still does not have a confirmed date for when fuel will be available at its facilities.

 update (14 March 2025): The nearest petrol station to the Halali and Okaukuejo Resorts within Etosha National Park, is the Etosha Trading Post, located approximately 6.5km south of the Andersson entrance gate. This modern facility offers both 50 ppm diesel and unleaded 95 petrol and accepts credit card payments.

The nearest petrol station to the Sesriem Campsite in Namib-Naukluft Park is the Sossus Oasis Service Station, conveniently located directly across from the park's entrance at Sesriem. This service station offers a stable supply of 50 ppm diesel and unleaded 95 petrol, accepts most credit and petrol cards.

The nearest petrol station to the /Ai-/Ais Hotsprings & Spa in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is the Canyon Roadhouse, located approximately 70 kilometers north of /Ai-/Ais. This establishment offers both 95 unleaded petrol and 50 ppm diesel. The station accepts both cash and card payments. Given the remote location, it's advisable to confirm fuel availability before your visit.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), the state-owned operator of tourism facilities within Namibia’s protected areas, has announced that fuel is currently unavailable at several of its popular resorts. Affected locations include Halali Resort and Okaukuejo Resort in Etosha National Park, Sesriem Campsite in Namib-Naukluft Park, and /Ai-/Ais Hotsprings & Spa in the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Travellers are advised to plan accordingly and ensure they have sufficient fuel before visiting these destinations. Stay tuned for updates!