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The Richtersveld is the driest region of Namaqualand with less than 50 mm of rain a year. Its attraction lies in its wild and arid loneliness, its briefly blooming spring flowers and its mighty river, the Orange which entices adventurers of the water-sport variety. Flower season fluctuates between June and October depending on the rains but whatever the weather, you'll find 30% of South Africa's succulents here. The eerily contorted, silhouetted skeletons of the halfmens tree is emblematic of the region. A well-stocked 4x4 is recommended for excursions into this timeless wilderness and pack a tent as caravans won't cut it. The camping sites within the park have no facilities other than braai areas and fresh water is only available at the park headquarters at Sendelingsdrift. Belying the impression of the uninitiated that the land of the Nama is dry and lifeless, Namaqualand's many moods and faces hold a perennial fascination for the intrepid wayfarer and her annual reminder to stop and smell the daisies is counsel well advised. Copyright © 2002 Laurianne Claase. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the permission of the author is prohibited. By Laurianne Classe | 
