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About Valley of Desolation

The Valley of Desolation – often called ‘The Cathedral of the Mountains’ – is a national monument and the premier tourist attraction in the Camdeboo National Park.

Experience the breathtaking view of piled dolerite columns against the backdrop of the plains of the Great Karoo. Absorb yourself in the timeless sense of wonder at a landscape said to be the product of volcanic and erosive forces of nature over a period of 100 million years.

Enjoy the unique view of the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, set like a jewel within a horseshoe bend of the Sundays River. Nature lovers will appreciate the Karoo mountain flora and fauna and the opportunity to view black eagles at close range.

The Valley of Desolation rock formations consist of dolerites which have formed jointed pillars. Erosion of the softer sedimentary beds has left dolerite pillars which rise to heights of 90 to 120 metres.

The Valley of Desolation was declared as a National Monument of geological and scenic significance in 1939. The original road to the Valley of Desolation was constructed by labourers using picks, shovels and barrows. The road to the top of the valley was tarred in 1978 and today provides tourists with easy access to the viewpoints with their panoramic views of the landscape.

To the north, the highest peak in the Sneeuberg mountain range – Compassberg (2504m) – is prominent, while on a clear day, the southern horizon stretches as far as the distant Cockscomb Mountains. To the east lies the ‘Driekoppie’ (in the park) and the Nardausberg (beyond the park boundaries), both of which are often covered in snow during winter.

The Plains of Camdeboo lie spread out south of the Sneeuberg from Pearston to Murraysburg. The viewpoints at the valley itself provide a breathtaking view of piled dolerites columns against the backdrop of the plain of the Great Karoo and a timeless sense of wonder.

The Crag Lizard Trail starts at the Valley parking area and extends for about one and a half kilometres via the Valley viewpoints. It is about a 45-minute walk and is well marked with the Crag Lizard logo.

Telephone:
+27 (0)49 892 3453 C&#[email protected]
Website:
www.sanparks.org/par​ks/camdeboo
Reviews:
Things to do in Graaff-Reinet

Reviews for Valley of Desolation

11 reviews Reviews of

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Arthur Chater
29 December 2016

Dramatic - a true wonder of nature.

Barry Kitching
29 September 2016

Absolutely awesome and breathtakingly beautiful. Well sign posted as well and very pleasant gate attendant.

Anne Olivier
28 September 2016

Breathtaking!!

Eneth Dannhauser
25 September 2016

Unbelievable - a must seen for everyone.

Louis Barnardt
15 December 2015

Nature a its best

William de Pinho
30 April 2015

Inspiring and appreciative of the wonder of nature.

veronica cross
06 September 2014

Beautiful.

veronica cross
06 September 2014

Beautiful, so different!

Vuyolwethu Cubeni
27 August 2014

This is a true reflection of God's amazing work :)

Gazelle Schoeman
15 July 2014

Beautiful place

Brenda Strydom
27 December 2013

Breathtaking!

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Accommodation near Valley of Desolation

Graaff-Reinet Inn

3 Reviews
Sleeps 19 in 8 rooms

This is a quirky and comfortable guest house located on the outskirts of Graaff-Reinet, offering family friendly accommodation in a relaxed...
R800
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Mad-Hatters B&B

2 Reviews
Sleeps 11 in 5 rooms

Mad-Hatters B&B offers luxurious bed and breakfast in the Eastern Cape region. It is situated in the main road of the quaint but lively...
R550
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Acacia Home

Sleeps 6 in 3 rooms

Located in Graaff-Reinet, within 14.5 km of Valley of Desolation and a 12-minute walk of Graaff-Reinet Railway Station, Acacia Home has...

Little Aloe Cottage

Sleeps 5 in 2 rooms

Welcome to our one bedroomed cottage nestled in the gem of the Karoo, Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape, South Africa.With sleeping arrangements...
R900
Avg per night for 2 guests

Lilibet Lodge

Sleeps 20 in 5 rooms

Lilibet Lodge offers family-friendly accommodation located in the historical town of Graaff-Reinet, in the Eastern Cape. The lodge is ideal...
R1000
Avg per night for 2 guests

Karoo Dome

Sleeps 2 in 1 room

Karoo Dome offers a unique glamping experience within the secure Camdeboo Conservancy, a place where time seems to stand still amidst...
R1600
Avg per night for 2 guests

Valley of Desolation Map

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Valley of Desolation is 6.6km from the centre of Graaff-Reinet , the nearest airport 228.1km (Port Elizabeth Airport).
*Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling

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