Conjure up a desolate and forbidding landscape, seemingly devoid of life, except for some people dotted along the horizon. Make a startling discovery upon closer inspection when the mirage dissolves into the human-like 'halfmens'(half person) and the harsh environment proves to be a treasure-chest containing the world's richest desert flora. Miniature rock gardens, perfectly designed by nature, cling precariously to cliff faces. Tiny succulents, mere pinpoints against a backdrop of surreal rock formations, revel in the moisture brought by the early morning fog rolling in from the cold Atlantic Ocean.

An international treaty, signed on 1 August 2003, incorporating the /Ai-/Ais Hots Springs Game Park in Namibia and Richtersveld National Park in South Africa, resulted in the establishment of the /Ai-/Ais/ Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. One of the main features of the combined park is the world's second largest canyon- the Fish River Canyon. At Senelingsdrift, on the South African side, a pontoon has been established to ferry people and vehicles across the Orange River. The pontoon has a carrying capacity of a 32-seater bus or two fully loaded double cab 4x4 vehicles.

Facilities and Activities

The park has a guest house in Sendelingsdrift where the reception office is situated. Facilities in the park include a shop and refuelling point in Sendelingsdrift, as well as camping sites at De Koei, Kokerboomkloof, Potjiespram, Richtersberg, and De Hoop. At the latter four, ablution facilities have been added. Two wilderness camps, accommodation in Sendelingsdrift and a trail base camp will be released to the public soon. Driving in a convoy with 4x4 vehicles with high ground clearances is recommended. Sedan vehicle are not premitted i the park. Clothing for extreme temperatures (summer days can reach temperatures as high as 53c ) and insect repellents should be packed.

How to get there

The park can be reached via Springbok, from there follow the N7 to Steinkopf, Port Nolloth, and Alexander Bay and then turn onto a gravel roed leading to Sendelingsdrift/Reuning.