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Orange
River Mouth
The wetland at the mouth of the Orange River forms an important
stop over for a great variety of migratory birds and has accordingly
been declared a Ramsar site. The endemic Barlow's Lark, a
must for any birder, is also found along the riverbanks, along
with smooth pebbles and semi-precious stones for rock and
gemstone enthusiasts. Unfortunately this wetland is currently
under major threat from several sources including reduced
flow and desertification, but efforts are underway to restore
this wetland. Also of interest are fields of green and orange
lichen growing on a hill near the turnoff to Alexander Bay.
These lichen fields are soon to be declared a national monument.
Living
Museums of the Richtersveld
In a region like the Richtersveld, it is easy to miss the
really interesting things. Some wonders lie along near forgotten
pathways, others right under your nose, but good as invisible
until pointed out. Three museums in the area, in Port Nolloth,
Alexander Bay and Eksteenfontein, provide an engaging interface
with this world that lies just beneath the seemingly barren
surface. From history and old legends, to information on the
unusual plants and animals that make an existence in these
marginal lands - the local museums bring the Richtersveld
to life.
Die
Groot Slang, "Heiji Aibib" and a fear of
geckos
Be sure not to miss an opportunity to listen to the campfire
tales told by the "Grootmense" (old people) - stories
which carry you away on a journey through ages and wonders,
written in the storytellers' faces. They will tell you about
the Wondergat, a deep and mysterious sinkhole at Cornellskop,
where people disappear or return to the surface suddenly aged,
with wide open terrified eyes and grey hair. "City people"
scoff at the legend of the Big Snake, its breath sufficient
to knock a large man down, yet almost every explorer that
has spent significant time wandering here will tell of some
baffling encounter...
Over
160 000 ha in size, the Heritage Site contains unspoiled stretches
of the Great !Gariep River, otherworldly geomorphology, unforgettable
landscapes and more.