This park, at the foot of the Nuweveld mountains, showcases the flora and fauna of the Great Karoo, an ancient, dry land that was once a vast sea.

Visitors should look out for plains game like hartebeest, wildebeest, eland and both zebra species (Burchell’s and the rare mountain zebra), and a variety of reptiles. Lions were reintroduced here in 2010 to restore the predator/prey balance and are occasionally seen.

For those with a keen interest in geology, the Karoo National Park is of special interest. Among its attractions is a 400m wheelchair-friendly trail featuring a display of real fossils and containing information about the geology of the area.

There is a low-level electrified fence around the rest camp so that visitors can walk around freely. The park also offers free, guided walks with an armed ranger who can explain more about this unique environment.

Accommodation is in comfortable chalets, excellent camping facilities or an overnight cottage for those who have booked a 4x4 trail.