Graaff-Reinet
The 'gem of the Karoo' — a Cape Dutch town entirely surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park and the Valley of Desolation.
Trip Role
Ideal stay
Best for
Our take
The Karoo's most beautiful town, and the one with a national park inside it.
The Karoo's most beautiful town, and the one with a national park inside it.
- Trip Role
- Overnight
- Ideal Stay
- 1-2 nights
- Best For
- Karoo heritage and the Valley of Desolation
- Go If
- You're crossing the Karoo and want one proper Karoo town.
Why go
Graaff-Reinet is the Karoo's showpiece — over 200 heritage buildings, a river, and the Valley of Desolation in the national park that wraps around it. The best Karoo town to stop in.
What we love
The Valley of Desolation at sunset — sheer dolerite columns over the plains.
What to know
5h from Gqeberha; a car is essential. The Camdeboo National Park surrounds the town.
Best things nearby
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