Plizio Visual Lab
Mountain Zebra National Park
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
Weather…
Water temperature…
Mountain Zebra National Park, located near Cradock in the Eastern Cape, was established in 1937 to save the Cape Mountain Zebra from the brink of extinction. At the time of its proclamation, only a handful of these unique zebras remained in the area, but through dedicated conservation efforts, the population has grown to several hundred, allowing for relocation to other reserves. The park's landscape is characterized by its dramatic mountain ranges, such as the Bankberg, and expansive plains that offer a rugged and ancient beauty typical of the Karoo region. Beyond the zebras, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Cape buffalo, black wildebeest, and the reintroduced cheetah, which visitors can track on foot with professional rangers. The park also provides a sanctuary for rare bird species and small predators like the caracal. Ancient San rock paintings can be found within the park boundaries, offering a glimpse into the thousands of years of human inhabitancy in these highlands. Mountain Zebra provides a serene and intimate wildlife experience, focusing on specialized species conservation within a stunningly topographical setting.
- Location: South Africa
- Top sights: Dam lookout · Big Rock · Mountain Zebra Rest Camp Pool
- Nearby: Cradock (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 22 | 20 | 16 | 12 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 79 | 77 | 68 | 44 | 22 | 15 | 17 | 21 | 22 | 37 | 48 | 59 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best season is the South African winter from May to September, when vegetation is lower and wildlife viewing is better. In the summer months (November to March), however, zebras are often found near waterholes.
Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are when zebras are most active, especially when moving to watering spots. During midday heat they retreat to shade and become harder to observe.
Etiquette
Keep a safety distance of at least 30 meters from the zebras, as they may become aggressive. Do not feed or lure animals - it is strictly prohibited and dangerous for both sides.
What to bring
Good binoculars and a camera with telephoto lens are good for the open landscapes. Light hiking shoes suffice for game drive roads, but for hill hikes, sturdy boots are better.
Getting there
The park is located near the town of Cradock and is reachable via the N10 road. The paved access road is well signposted, and a regular car is sufficient for the main routes.
What to expect
Though mountain zebras are seen more often than in the past, finding them requires patience and a good eye. Drive slowly along waterholes and watch the slopes with patience.
Geography
Facts
- The park was proclaimed on July 3, 1937, to protect the last Mountain Zebras.
- The current size of the park is approximately 28,412 hectares (284 sq km).
- By 1950, there were only 2 zebra mares left, but the population recovered.
- Cheetahs were successfully reintroduced to the park in 2007 to restore balance.
- The highest peak in the park is the Bankberg at 1,964 meters above sea level.
- Cape Mountain Zebras have a distinct white belly and no 'shadow stripes'.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mountain Zebra National Park (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the park named that?
It was established to save the endangered mountain zebra from extinction.
Is it suitable for hikers?
Yes, there are excellent hiking trails through the mountainous terrain.
What is the weather like?
The weather is highly changeable; even in summer, nights can be very cool.
Are there predators?
Yes, cheetahs and leopards are present, but are very shy.
Can you camp there?
Yes, there are well-equipped campsites inside the park.
Mountain Zebra National Park: where is it located?
Mountain Zebra National Park is located in South Africa.
Mountain Zebra National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Dam lookout, Big Rock, Mountain Zebra Rest Camp Pool.
Mountain Zebra National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Mountain Zebra National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Mountain Zebra National Park, located near Cradock in the Eastern Cape, was established in 1937 to save the Cape Mountain Zebra from the brink of extinction.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in South Africa →
Nearby cities
Gqeberha
Formerly known as Port Elizabeth, this coastal city is a major hub for the South African automotive industry.
East London
South Africa's only river port city is situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River on the Indian Ocean.
Kariega
Formerly called Uitenhage, this industrial town is heavily involved in the production of cars and tires.
Mthatha
Formerly known as Umtata, it was the capital of the Transkei and is deeply connected to the history of Nelson Mandela.
Bhisho
This small town serves as the administrative capital of the Eastern Cape province and houses government buildings.
Komani
A town surrounded by mountains, historically designed as a strategic outpost.
Makhanda
Previously known as Grahamstown, the city is famous for its educational institutions and annual arts festival.
Graaff-Reinet
The fourth-oldest town in the country, enclosed by a bend of the Sundays River, full of Cape Dutch architecture.
Aliwal North
The town on the Orange River is mostly known for its hot mineral springs, drawing many visitors.
Cradock
A historic gem in the heart of the Karoo, renowned for its Victorian architecture and as a gateway to the Mountain Zebra National Park.
Jeffreys Bay
World-renowned as a surfer's paradise, this town offers endless beaches, famous waves, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Port Alfred
Port Alfred is a vibrant coastal town situated on the Kowie River, offering magnificent beaches and a bustling marina.
Gonubie
A scenic coastal town near East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape, known for its river mouth and sandy beaches.
Bushman's River Mouth
Bushman's River Mouth is a picturesque coastal town on the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its spectacular river estuary.
Port Edward
Port Edward is a popular resort town on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, near the border with the Eastern Cape.
History & landmarks
Port Elizabeth City Hall
A historic government building featuring a prominent clock tower in the center of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).
Addo
World-famous for its Elephant National Park, Addo offers unparalleled wildlife safaris in the malaria-free Eastern Cape.
Owl House
A fascinating house and sculpture garden created by outsider artist Helen Martins in Nieu-Bethesda.
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
A multi-purpose stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) featuring a distinctive roof design.
More places
Mountain Zebra National Park
A park for the protection of mountain zebras.
Sneeuberge
Mountain range near Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape.
Winterberg
A mountain region in the Eastern Cape with cooler temperatures.
Suurberg Mountains
A mountain range in the Addo Elephant National Park area.
Addo Elephant National Park
A well-known park for its elephant herds.
Addo Elephant National Park
Reserve famous for its massive elephant herds.
Karoo Semi-desert
A vast arid plateau in the country's interior.
Amathole Mountains
A forested mountain range in the Eastern Cape.