/Ai-/Ais Hot Springs (original) (raw)

Natural features: Mountainous terrain in the west all the way to the Orange River, which forms the southern boundary between Namibia and South Africa, and /Ai-/Ais and Richtersveld national parks. The Fish River Canyon dominates the eastern section of the park.

Vegetation: Succulent Karoo and Nama Karoo Biome.

Vegetation Type: Desert/Dwarf Shrub Transition, Succulent Steppe, Dwarf Shrub Savannah, Karas Dwarf Shrubland, Riverine Woodland. Quiver tree (Aloe dichotoma) maiden’s quiver tree (Aloe pillansii) and halfmens (Pachypodium namaquanum).

Wildlife: Hartmann’s Mountain zebra, klipspringer, kudu, leopard, brown hyena, grey rhebok (rare). The 202 bird species recorded in the park include Little Bittern, Black Stork, Black Harrier, Malachite Sunbird and African Pied Wagtail.

Tourism: Hiking. Birding. Spa retreats. Newly renovated accommodation at /Ai-/Ais: Double rooms, premier chalets and camping. Restaurant, bar, spa facilities and swimming pool. Hobas: camping, kiosk, swimming pool. Booking and fitness test essential king Trail through Namibia Wildlife Resorts.

Key management issues: Mining is the largest challenge to biodiversity in the park, with several areas along the river under Exclusive Prospecting Licences (EPLs). The Ministry of Environment and Tourism is working toward strategies to enforce regulations for the rehabilitation and reclamation of mining areas.

Invasive alien species, particularly Prosopis glandulosa and wild tobacco (Nicotiana glauca), are another challenge. The MET is working with partners to develop plans to control the species.

Other problems include illegal livestock grazing, fishing and park entry.

Future plans: A feasibility study for the development of the Apollo 11 Cave as a tourist attraction is being undertaken. The main viewpoint at the Fish River Canyon is receiving a facelift, with more shade, seating, picnic areas and an information display expected to be completed in mid-2010.

New park gates will soon be opened. The park is set to be part of the larger !Gariep Transfrontier Conservation Area between Namibia and South Africa is aimed at conserving biodiversity in protected areas and on private land.