The Valley of Desolation is situated close to Graaff-Reinet.
It forms part of the Camdeboo National Park.
The geology of the Valley of Desolation is being explained in-depth on the SAN Parks website and on the information display in the Valley of Desolation.
Just briefly: These amazing rock pillars consisting of dolorite have been caused by erosion along vertical cracks. This process started from around 200 million years ago. Sand, mud and clay had been deposited in the Karoo Basin, forming rocks finally. Later (around 160 million years ago) volcanic activity pushed magma into cracks in the sandstones and shales, the magma is called dolerite on solidification.

A sometimes steep but tarred road and a short walk provide easy access to the viewpoint on top of the Valley of Desolation.
The Camdeboo National Park offers more than only the Valley of Desolation.
You can make use of the Game viewing area, picnic areas and trails and walks.
Information displays at parking areas or viewpoints show more about the reserve.

Area of Valley of Desolation Map