Severe flooding along the Orange River has prompted the closure of several camps within the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Park management is working to minimise disruption but has confirmed that many affected camps will remain closed until further notice.
Water levels are being closely monitored near key camps and facilities, particularly at the Sendelingsdrift border post pontoon as well as the Potjiespram, De Hoop and Richtersberg camp sites and the Tatasberg Wilderness Camp.
Three camps – Sendelingsdrif Rest Camp, Gannakouriep Wilderness Camp and Kokerboomkloof Camp Site – remain fully operational.
The current estimated closure periods are as follows:
- Tatasberg: April-July 2025
- Richtersberg: April-July 2025
- De Hoop
Block A: May 2025
Block B and C: April-June 2025 - Potjiespram Blocks A-C: May 2025
Park authorities noted that final decisions on reopening will depend on water levels receding. Based on previous flooding events, it typically takes a significant time for the water to evaporate and for conditions to be dry enough to rebuild damaged roads.
