We had imagined the journey to this national park, which was around three hundred kilometers away, to be easier. The R365, which was marked as a good gravel road on the map, soon turned out to be a river bed. There were moments when we thought about turning back; but now the distance forward was less than the distance back. So, we continued…

We were happy when we reached the tar road two hours later. Things went quickly on the N10. In Cradock, which has since changed names, we turned off to the national park, which is known for its large population of mountain zebras. At 3.30 pm., we were standing in front of the entrance gate. We were lucky because there was room to camp. Previously the camp site was occupied by South Africans who were spending their holidays here, which are now coming to an end.

We used the evening light to take a first tour of the park. (There were also 4×4 trails; but we had seen enough of them today!) The area is hilly and the landscape is impressive. We drove at altitudes between 1,200 and 1,600 meters. There would also be another cold night; But we’ve gotten used to it now.

We soon met the first mountain zebras, who gave the park their name. What elegant and beautiful animals. But we also got to see elands, kudu, blesbok, springbok, wildebeest and a jackal. Happy and satisfied, we then drove to camp and prepared for a cold night. (This means that we have long underwear ready and Brigitta installs the electric heater that we have with us.) It is more pleasant to get up in the morning at 20° C than at a temperature just above freezing!

PS: If you want to know more about this national park, click here.