Expert Reviews of Bontebok National Park (1 Reviews)

Bontebok National Park, nestled just outside the historic town of Swellendam in the Western Cape, is a small but enchanting protected area with a remarkable conservation story. Established in 1931 to save the bontebok from the brink of extinction, the park safeguards this striking antelope, known for its rich brown coat and distinctive white blaze on the face. The bontebok is a South African endemic, found naturally only in the low-lying grasslands of the Western Cape, making its preservation here especially significant.

The park is ideal for a relaxed day visit or a quiet overnight stay. A short, circular driving route winds through gently rolling fynbos-covered hills and open grasslands, providing excellent opportunities to spot bontebok grazing or resting in the shade. Other wildlife is also abundant, including eland, red hartebeest, springbok and grey rhebok.

For those who enjoy exploring on foot, Bontebok offers a selection of short hiking trails that meander

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through the park’s varied habitats and along the Breede River, which forms part of the park’s boundary.