Donkieskraal Campsite

Donkieskraal is a remote but special farm with a long history.
In 1685 governor Simon van der Stel camped here on his way to discover the source of the copper what from time to time was brought to Kaapstad by the indigenous people. That source was Springbok in Namakwaland.

Nowadays the farm is specialised in potatoes. But a part of the land of the farm is separated for wild life like for instance Springbokkies, Eland or Wildebeast. You must be lucky to see them if it is a very sunny day. So in that case an early morning game driveseems te be the best option.

Donkieskraal has a hidden kraal where in the Anglo Boer war horses were held.

On the farm there are several sites of special rock art with artefacts like sharpe stones. I can recommand a guided tour to those sites.

On our way to the last site we saw a baboon screeming/yelling to a black eagle. They reacted to each other. A minute ou guide showed us the nest of the black eagles on the rocks.

In the neighbourhood of the kraal there are some very special guest rooms

Overall Donkieskraal has potential for tourists.

I wonder if a more professional commercial approach might offer more opportunities for this region, which could certainly use additional tourism.

This place was recommended to me by someone who has been there before.

It's a unique place with the chalets in the cave which has a different experience to it. You can also bring your own tents or they have pre-set up tents, besides the cave.

The caves are pricey but the experience is amazing. You have your own little place for the weekend with peace & quite with some small animals now & again popping around.

I did have bad experience with the communication at the place. There was no communication at all, even when you ask about the activities they do, such as Wild Life Tour, Cave drawings, Flower looking and Hike trails. I didn't get to experience any of that which is a disappointment.

I also never got to experience the Hot Tub that came with the cave for the weekend, which I know is an additional cost, but no communication from this place at all.

I would like to go back to this place despite disappointments, as we really enjoyed the vibe the place gives.
I do hope that you could work on communication before the couples arrive or on arrival at least. And if a private event is taking place, communicate that as well if other activities cannot be taken place.

Stayed in Eagles View room. Definitely recommend for a Great couples getaway or use camping sites with family and friends. Its an off grid site with minimal electricity, however theres clean drinking water available and hot water available for showers/dishes. No oven but you have a gas stove top and plenty of braai areas and a beautiful swimming pool, bar and function venue.
Mountains, hiking trails, nature and beautiful birds.
Preferably drive there in a bakkie, and remember your bug spray
We really enjoyed our stay

The room is fitted with a beautiful bath but to our dissapointment we weren't able to get full use of the jets because there's not enough hot water to fill the tub.

Amazing views, very unique rooms, surrounded by nature. Don't go expecting 5 star service, that's not what you pay for. Very comfortable rooms with everything you need. There might be mice and other wildlife comming in, but that's part of the charm if being so intertwined with nature. Loved our stay!!