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Hidden miles away from the main roads in the dry semi desert region of South Africa's Northern
Cape province lies an unusual nature reserve. Rising out of the surrounding scrub land are huge
white sand dunes up to 30m high which give this 3500 hector nature reserve its name.
The reserve contains an assortment of chalets, bungalows, caravan and camping sites for
accomodation.
There are many miles of road leading through the reserve for those that enjoy game drives. In
addition Witsand boasts a large number of buck species that include Springbok, Kudu, and
Gemsbok. For the bird lover, there are over 170 bird species listed. Climbing the dunes is a
favorite activity and offer a good view of the surroundings from the top. In addition there is a
3km trail leading through the bush and past some old graves dating back to the 1940's and
belonging to the Scheffers family.
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When we visited Witsand in the month of July, the area was very dry. The gravel roads leading to
the Witsand Nature Reserve were heavily corrugated and it took us quite awhile to get there. The
camping and ablution facilities were good. Throughout the day and night tame Springbok moved
through the campsites looking for salt on the braai grills. Climbing the dunes was a lot of
fun as the sand is very fine. If you enjoy the bush and remote areas, then Witsand is definitely
worth a visit.
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