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National Parks
Vaalbos National Park
Province: Northern Cape
Features: Camphor Bush - ( Vaalbos), White Rhino, Black Rhino
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
1. Camphor Bush - ( Vaalbos)
2. White Rhino
3. Black Rhino
4. Tsessebe
5. Cape Buffalo
GENERAL INFO
The Vaalbos National Park is an extraordinary area along the Vaal River where wildlife such as black rhino, white rhino, buffalo, eland, red hartebeest and tsessebe are to be seen in the former heart of the the alluvial diamond diggings near Kimberley. A tourist route, built with material from the diamond diggings using local labour, winds through the park, exposing visitors to all facets of its three different ecosystems as they merge together as one. The name Vaalbos originates from the vaalbos (camphor bush), a prominent plant species in the park.
Climate
Rainfall mainly during summer, could vary between 300 mm and 700 mm per annum. Winters are cold with temperatures as low as -4°C. Summer temperatures may be as high as 44°C.
Day Visitors
Park ideal for day visitation being 20 km from Barkley West and 52 km from Kimberley.
Emergencies
Park: Tel: (053) 561-0088 o Fax: (053) 561-0080
Office Hours
Office is open from sunrise to sunset
Take Note
Pets are not allowed in national parks.
Firearms to be declared at reception where they will be sealed. The seal will be broken upon departure.
Firewood, plants or stones may not be collected.
Visitors may not leave their vehicles (except at the designated picnic areas or accommodation).
Travel / How to get there
20 km west of Barkly West and 52 km from Kimberley.
Sydney-on-Vaal, the historic mining village with its many original Victorian buildings, is adjacent to the park.
Tourist routes are gravelled.
Gate Hours
07:00 - 19:00 throughout the year
Wheelchair Access
There are 3 cottages in the park, one of which is accessible, with ramps, 2 beds, 2 mattresses and accessible ablution facilities (shower).
ACTIVITIES
Block Dam picnic site, 17 km from the gate: 10 barbecue/picnic sites, ablution facilities and a hide erected at a waterhole.
River picnic site on the banks of the Vaal River, some 2 km from the gate: 20 barbecue/picnic sites, ablution facilities and spacious lawns.
ACCOMMODATION
Blokdam Camping Site - Camping berths without power
Six-bed cottages, one bedroom (with two beds), lounge (with two beds), bathroom (shower) and kitchen with basic equipment.
Loft with two mattresses is not suitable for the elderly or small children.
Solar panels provide power for lights and fans only - no electric plugs available.
RESERVATIONS
Telephone Number: +27 (0)12 428 9111
Fax number: +27 (0)12 343 0905
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