Created by the erosive and volcanic forces of nature, Valley of Desolation represents a geological marvel located inside a vast nature reserve. Declared a national monument, the valley attracts many hikers and photographers with its pristine beauty and diverse animal and plant life. A circular trail will take you to a vantage point offering a remarkable view of the seemingly endless African expanse. At the top, you can also observe the peculiar red columns rising some 120 m (393 ft) from the valley floor. Before you head to Graaff-Reinet, plan trip itinerary details with our user-friendly Graaff-Reinet trip planner, to make sure you see all that Graaff-Reinet has to offer, including Valley of Desolation.
Create an itinerary including Valley of Desolation
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Valley of Desolation reviews
-
What an experience.. certainly not to be missed. We saw the sunset but should have gone earlier and spent more time in the Valley. more »
-
It's a special natural environment worth visiting. Take a picnic and experience the silence. There are some buck in the reserve and it is only a 20 minute drive outside the town. more »
-
South Africa's great canyon. Take time to walk up to the top for the best view of great sky country. Sit down, breathe in the stillness and watch the birds fly over the rock formations. Pack your own picnic basket as there are good spots for picnic but no restaurant.
-
There's not a lot there, but that's the point. Beautiful geological phenomenon, take sundowners along. You won't be disappointed, we spotted a jackal on route in, little bonus
-
Build a trip
Tell us where and when you
want to go, we will build
the best sightseeing itinerary -
Refine it
You have complete flexibility on your destinations and itinerary -
Book as a package
Use our travel agents to get
package savings and hassle free booking -
Enjoy your trip!
Enjoy our 24x7
on-trip assistance
Popular things to do in Graaff-Reinet
Side trips from Graaff-Reinet
Hidden gems in Graaff-Reinet
Nearby attractions in Graaff-Reinet
Museums in Graaff-Reinet
Historic Sites in Graaff-Reinet
Trips to Valley of Desolation by other users
7 days in Eastern Cape
BY A USER FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Port Elizabeth
Addo Elephant National Park
Graaff-Reinet
20 days in Eastern Cape & Western Cape
BY A USER FROM BELGIUM
Port Elizabeth
Graaff-Reinet
Plettenberg Bay
19 days in Eastern Cape
BY A USER FROM BELGIUM
Port Elizabeth
Addo Elephant National Park
Port Alfred
3 days in Eastern Cape
BY A USER FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Port Elizabeth
Graaff-Reinet
Addo Elephant National Park
3 days in Eastern Cape
BY A USER FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Port Elizabeth
Tsitsikamma National Park
Graaff-Reinet
2 days in Graaff-Reinet
BY A USER FROM SOUTH AFRICA
The Reinet House
Valley of Desolation
Camdeboo National Park