Tankwa Karoo National Park

Details

Details of Tankwa Karoo National Park

  • Size: Approximately 1,436 square kilometres.
  • Location: Northern Cape Province.
  • Best Time: Year round.
  • Known For: Stargazing.
  • To Do: Game drives, hiking, and stargazing.

One of South Africa's most arid parks, Tankwa Karoo is not a game drive destination as much as it is a place to soak in the utter silence of the sun and wind blasted desert while observing the dazzling display of stars overhead.

Panoramic view of the milkyway over tents of campers camping under the stars in the middle of the karoo in south africa

While small reptiles and a variety of birds do call the park home, it is primarily popular due to its barren landscape and the clarity with which stars can be observed on a clear night.

Resident animals include the aardvark, porcupine, caracal, honey badger, mongoose, and a variety of antelopes.

tankwa karoo national park western cape south africa

Short Overview

A stargazer’s paradise, Tankwa Karoo National Park is a scientific national park located roughly four hours drive from Cape Town.


A desert park without large game, it is nonetheless a charming option for stargazers or those wanting to photograph its desert moonscape.


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