Situated just outside of the town of Cradock, some 280km from Port Elizabeth or 800km from Cape Town and the same distance from Johannesburg, is the Mountain Zebra National Park. This stunningly beautiful wildlife retreat is characterised by the lusciously green mountain landscapes typical of the Eastern Cape Midlands, making this a scenic home to the Cape mountain zebra and a welcoming environment for those wishing to escape the city life in favour of a wildlife experience in this enchanting National Park.
Of particular interest is the fact that there are only around 300 Cape mountain zebra left in the wild today. There can be little doubt this is a dangerously low number for any species, but that there are even this many is largely thanks to the proclaiming of the Mountain Zebra National Park in 1937. Since then this park has gone a long way in saving this endangered zebra from extinction. Witnessing these gracious striped creatures on the Eastern Cape mountain slopes makes for a memorable visit indeed.
Of course there are a wide variety of other animals on which visitors can feast their eyes upon, in this park you can expect to see wild animals in their natural setting, including the Cape buffalo, black rhinoceros, eland, gemsbok, black wildebeest and red hartebeest, while the caracal (a wild cat) is the main predator in the park.
Walks through the reserve offer the best opportunities to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Mountain Zebra National Park, with a large variety of bird life to enjoy. The paths are well kept, making walking a pleasure. The Rooiplaat Plateau is an especially good place to view the park's game. As this region has sunny weather throughout the year it is advisable to bring along a hat and sun block to protect yourself from the African sun. That being said, the winter months can still be rather chilly, so remember to pack sufficient warm clothing. Also make sure that you carry enough water to keep you hydrated on bush walks, and of course remember your camera and binoculars!
Although the park does not provide accommodation facilities, this is not to be considered a problem, as accommodation and other services are available in the nearby small town of Cradock, where you will find the locals to be both friendly and welcoming. For the international visitor looking to fly to the nearest city, the park is most easily reached from Port Elizabeth, known in South Africa as the friendly city.
