With an estimated 60 to 100 000 people who visit this site each year, the Valley of Desolation is a premier tourist attraction and is part of the Camdeboo National Park and a perfect place to take sunset pictures.
Presently, approximately 19km of gravel roadways provide visitors with the opportunity to view the entire range of indigenous species in their preferred habitats. For birding enthusiasts, at least 225 bird species have been recorded in the Park.
Trails and walks
The Crag Lizard Trail (45 minutes) starts at the Valley parking area and extends for about 1.5 km via the Valley viewpoints. It is marked with the Crag Lizard logo.
The Eerstefontein Day Walk starts and ends at the Spandaukop gate. There are three route options of 5km; 11km and 14km with good rest spots at Eerstefontein and Agtersfontein.
The Gideon Scheepers Trail is an hour long walk, starting at the Gideon Scheepers Monument, which commemorates a historic figure, and ending at Barbergat on the R63 to Murraysburg.
There is no charge for Hiking Trails in the park, apart from conservation fees.