Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
Location: Northern Cape, South Africa
Year of Inscription: 2017
Criteria: (iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is a vast mountainous desert area located in the Northern Cape of South Africa. It is home to the Nama people, who have inhabited the region for over 2000 years and have developed a unique way of life and culture that is closely linked to the environment. The landscape is significant for its exceptional biodiversity, which includes many rare and endemic plant species, as well as for its important cultural heritage.
Prominent Features: The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is characterized by its rugged mountainous terrain, deep gorges, and desert plains. The landscape is also home to a number of unique plant species, including the halfmens tree, the giant quiver tree, and the Richtersveld wild jasmine. The area is also home to important cultural sites, including the Tatasberg rock engravings, which date back over 2000 years.
History: The Nama people have lived in the Richtersveld for over 2000 years and have developed a way of life and culture that is closely linked to the environment. They have traditionally lived as semi-nomadic pastoralists, moving their livestock across the desert to find water and grazing. The Richtersveld has also been the site of a number of significant historical events, including the Nama Wars of the late 19th century, which saw the Nama people resist German colonization.
Fun Fact: The Richtersveld is home to one of the richest succulent floras in the world, with over 2000 plant species recorded in the area. Many of these plants are endemic to the Richtersveld and are found nowhere else on earth.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the unique desert landscape of the Richtersveld, including the deep gorges and rugged mountainous terrain. Visitors can also learn about the Nama people and their traditional way of life, including their herding practices and cultural beliefs. The nearby town of Port Nolloth offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of R75 for South African adults and R40 for South African children to enter the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape.
How to Reach It: The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is located in the Northern Cape of South Africa, near the border with Namibia. The nearest town is Port Nolloth, which is located approximately 110 kilometers from the Richtersveld. Visitors can hire a car or join a guided tour to reach the area.
Where to Stay: There are several different options for accommodation in the Richtersveld, including camping sites, guesthouses, and lodges. Some of the recommended places to stay include the Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, the Richtersberg Campsite, and the Garies Hotel.
Next Stop: Robben Island
Year of Inscription: 2017
Criteria: (iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is a vast mountainous desert area located in the Northern Cape of South Africa. It is home to the Nama people, who have inhabited the region for over 2000 years and have developed a unique way of life and culture that is closely linked to the environment. The landscape is significant for its exceptional biodiversity, which includes many rare and endemic plant species, as well as for its important cultural heritage.
Prominent Features: The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is characterized by its rugged mountainous terrain, deep gorges, and desert plains. The landscape is also home to a number of unique plant species, including the halfmens tree, the giant quiver tree, and the Richtersveld wild jasmine. The area is also home to important cultural sites, including the Tatasberg rock engravings, which date back over 2000 years.
History: The Nama people have lived in the Richtersveld for over 2000 years and have developed a way of life and culture that is closely linked to the environment. They have traditionally lived as semi-nomadic pastoralists, moving their livestock across the desert to find water and grazing. The Richtersveld has also been the site of a number of significant historical events, including the Nama Wars of the late 19th century, which saw the Nama people resist German colonization.
Fun Fact: The Richtersveld is home to one of the richest succulent floras in the world, with over 2000 plant species recorded in the area. Many of these plants are endemic to the Richtersveld and are found nowhere else on earth.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the unique desert landscape of the Richtersveld, including the deep gorges and rugged mountainous terrain. Visitors can also learn about the Nama people and their traditional way of life, including their herding practices and cultural beliefs. The nearby town of Port Nolloth offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of R75 for South African adults and R40 for South African children to enter the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape.
How to Reach It: The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is located in the Northern Cape of South Africa, near the border with Namibia. The nearest town is Port Nolloth, which is located approximately 110 kilometers from the Richtersveld. Visitors can hire a car or join a guided tour to reach the area.
Where to Stay: There are several different options for accommodation in the Richtersveld, including camping sites, guesthouses, and lodges. Some of the recommended places to stay include the Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, the Richtersberg Campsite, and the Garies Hotel.
Next Stop: Robben Island