A short drive from Graaff-Reinet takes you into the heart of Camdeboo National Park, where you can enjoy the park’s unique plants, wildlife, and wide-open spaces.
The Valley of Desolation is the highlight of any visit to Camdeboo National Park. The viewpoint is approximately 9 km from the park entrance, along a tarred road that winds steeply up to a small parking area at the top of a hill. From here, a short footpath leads to the viewpoint; it’s an easy walk, though not wheelchair friendly. At the summit, a platform marks the spot, but most visitors prefer to settle on the surrounding rocks to take in the dramatic dolerite columns and sweeping mountain views. The valley feels remote and peaceful, offering a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Karoo in all its quiet majesty.
Staying at the Drostdy Hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort, history, and proximity to the Valley of Desolation, making it an ideal base for exploring one of South Africa’s most iconic natural wonders.
A Brief Geography Lesson
The Valley of Desolation looks the way it does as a result of volcanic activity that shaped the Karoo’s landscape millions of years ago.
When molten dolerite pushed up through the Earth’s crust into sedimentary rock layers, it cooled and contracted, forming the striking vertical columns we see today – though shrouded from view at the time.
As time stretched on, the sedimentary rock eroded – due to wind, rain and other natural forces – revealing the columns of dolerite. Today, this valley sits within the Camdeboo National Park, perched along the edge of an escarpment that drops sharply into the surrounding plains.
The park itself spans over 180 square kilometres, preserving our region’s unique ecosystems, from open plains to rugged escarpments. Visitors may encounter a variety of wildlife, including springbok, steenbok, and a host of bird species that make the park a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Whether you are hiking, cycling, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the staggering scenes, this park offers a full Karoo experience beyond the valley itself and remains one of our favourite sites to recommend to guests.
Why You Should Visit
There are few places that inspire a genuine sense of awe, but the Valley of Desolation is one of them. Its jagged rock formations catch the light differently throughout the day, creating ever-changing shades and textures that appeal to photographers and casual visitors alike.
The sense of isolation here is profound; the wind whistles through the columns and carries the quiet vastness of the Karoo, making every visit feel like stepping into another world.
Hikers and nature lovers will appreciate the accessible trails that wind along the escarpment in the wider park, where encounters with local flora and fauna, from small antelope to rare bird species, enrich the experience.
Even a short stop at a viewpoint can leave a lasting impression – case in point!
Day Trips from The Drostdy Hotel
Reaching the Valley of Desolation from Drostdy Hotel is an easy 15-minute drive to Camdeboo National Park (via the R63), and a further 15-minute drive once inside. The journey itself provides glimpses of the rolling Karoo landscape, dotted with historic farms, before reaching the park’s gate, where you’ll be required to fill in a short form and pay a nominal entry fee.
To reach the viewpoint, take a look at the park map here, or ask for directions at the gate. Note: Reaching the viewpoint (Valley of Desolation) does require a short, 5-minute walk – suited to all fitness levels.
One of the most memorable ways to experience the valley is with a picnic, which you can request at our front desk. With a blanket, some local treats (and perhaps a bottle of wine), you’re free to find a spot on one of the designated viewing areas and soak up the majesty of this special place. For those wishing to extend their exploration, a hike along the main trail allows for closer encounters with the dolerite columns and the deeper ravines, offering ever-changing perspectives and photo opportunities.
The Best Times of Day to Visit
For those seeking dramatic landscapes and exceptional photographic opportunities, timing your visit to the valley is key. Sunrise casts a soft glow across the dolerite columns, highlighting their rugged textures against the crisp morning light, while late afternoon and early evening, as the sun dips toward the horizon, bathes the valley in warm, golden hues that bring out the depth of the ravines and the subtle reds and purples of the surrounding terrain.
Regardless of when you arrive, the changing angle of the sun transforms the valley into a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle.
Take note of the park’s gate times:
January & February: 6am – 8pm
March: 6am – 7.30pm
April: 6.30am – 7pm
May: 7am – 6.30pm
June: 7am – 6pm
July & August: 7am – 6.30pm
September: 6.30am – 7pm
October: 6am – 7.30pm
November: 6am – 8pm
December: 6am – 8.30pm
Book Your Stay at Drostdy Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Graaff-Reinet, the Drostdy Hotel offers an elegant and luxurious retreat after a day exploring the Valley of Desolation. With our historic charm, central location and sparkling swimming pools – perfect for a refreshing post-outing dip – we’re the perfect base from which to discover the Karoo’s most remarkable landmarks.
Browse our beautiful suites here and get in touch with our reservations team at reservations@drostdy.co.za to book your stay.
Alternatively, make use of our online booking platform to secure your dates.