Namaqualand, carpeted with spring flowers as far as the eye can see.
Located in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, the Namaqualand National Park is a true gem that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty, significantly during spring when the arid landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colours. This article will take you on a journey through Namaqualand National Park and its enchanting surroundings in Kamieskroon and Springbok, highlighting the park’s unique features, biodiversity, and the cultural richness of this remarkable region.
Namaqualand National Park: A Floral Wonderland
Situated west of the N7 national road, the Namaqua National Park can be found by travelling northwards through Kamieskroon, past the hotel, underneath the N7 bridge and then 18 km along the Wolwepoort gravel road. The Park, spanning an area of about 103,000 ha, is home to the richest bulb flora of any arid region in the world, and more than a thousand of its estimated 3,500 plant species are found nowhere else on Earth. During early August and September, the park captures the full grandeur of the flower season as the dusty valleys of Namaqualand are transformed – seemingly overnight – into a wonderland carpeted with wildflowers. On the first ridge of hills separating the interior from the coast, the park catches much of what little rain blows in from the sea. In years when surrounding areas have less than splendid displays, the Skilpad section of the park is usually still magnificent. Namaqua National Park has new self-catering units, a 56 km four-by-four route, and a resource centre that can accommodate groups participating in environmental education and activities. Tel no.: 027 6721948; fax: 027 6721015.
Namaqualand National Park’s main attraction is undoubtedly its world-famous wildflower displays. Each year, during the spring (August to October), the semi-arid desert of Namaqualand erupts in a riot of colours as countless wildflowers bloom. This phenomenon is considered one of the most extraordinary floral displays on Earth. Visitors can witness fields of orange, yellow, purple, and white flowers covering the landscape, creating a breathtaking and otherworldly sight.
Flora and Fauna
Beyond the wildflowers, the park boasts a rich biodiversity. The arid environment supports a range of unique plant species adapted to survive in harsh conditions. The park is also home to various animal species, including gemsbok, springbok, zebra, and birdlife. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting rare species like the Black Harrier and the Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk.
Hiking and Photography
Nature enthusiasts and photographers will find endless opportunities to explore the park’s hiking trails and capture the beauty of its landscape. Popular trails include the Skilpad Wildflower Reserve and the Coastal Hiking Trail, which offers stunning views of the rugged coastline.
Chasing Spring Flowers has become a tradition in the Aitkenhead household, tripping through the daisies, searching for rare and unique flowers. Photographing the colourful explosion of wildflowers, dramatic landscapes, and a wide variety of our natural Faunan is a highlight during our spring season. With the abundance of rain this year, we decided to explore the holy grail of spring flowers, the true Namaqualand and its surrounds.
Our family embarked on a journey of approximately 600 kilometres, setting out early to make the most of our midweek holiday. All this took place during the splendid flower season in Southern Africa. The country had received its usual winter rainfall, resulting in a spectacular bloom of every seed that had found its way to the fertile ground.
Our halfway point brought us to the charming town of Vanrhynsdorp, nestled in the Matzikama Region of the Western Cape. It’s a picturesque place alongside the Troe-Troe River, with the imposing Maskam Mountain and the Gifberg Mountains as its backdrop. The Gifberg, aptly named the Poison Mountain, is only about 20 kilometres north of Vanrhynsdorp, and it marks the origin of the Troe-Troe River, which gracefully flows northward through the town.
Our brief stop in Vanrhynsdorp allowed us to capture some captivating photographs of this serene landscape before we continued our journey towards the enchanting Namaqualand.
One curious observation in this quaint town was the presence of emergency numbers that included contact details for a tire specialist. Little did we know that fate would lead us to require the services of Mr Tyre, who promptly came to our aid with just a phone call. At this moment, I also realized I had forgotten to pack my shoes for the trip. Fortunately, the local Chinese store rescued me, saving my feet from the perils of barefoot adventures.
With renewed spirits and well-equipped for our adventure, we pressed northwards towards Kamieskroon, passing through the captivating landscapes of Knersvlakte and Garies. The flowers, an endless sea of colours, adorned our path, beckoning us to stop and admire their beauty at every turn.
As far as the eye could see, the landscape was painted with nature’s vibrant palette. It was a breathtaking sight that left us awestruck. We couldn’t resist the urge to stop frequently, capturing the beauty through our lenses.
Our destination for the next three nights was Groot Valleij, a choice that proved to be the pinnacle of our trip. Nestled in the heart of Namaqualand, this farm was a warm and welcoming haven. The farm family extended their hospitality with open arms, and even their friendly dogs became our constant companions during our stay.
Kamieskroon: Gateway to Namaqualand
Kamieskroon, located just outside the Namaqualand National Park, is a gateway to this natural wonderland. This charming small town is known for its hospitality and serves as a base for visitors exploring the park. With its picturesque streets and warm atmosphere, Kamieskroon provides an authentic South African experience.
The Kamiesberg Mountains
The Kamieskroon area is renowned for its stunning landscapes, particularly the Kamiesberg Mountains. These ancient mountains offer fantastic hiking opportunities and a chance to explore unique flora and fauna, including many endemic plant species.
Local Cuisine
Don’t miss the opportunity to savour traditional South African cuisine in Kamieskroon. Local dishes such as bobotie, boerewors, and potjiekos can be enjoyed in the town’s eateries, providing a taste of the local culture.
Springbok: A Town of History and Culture and Historical Significance
Springbok, the largest town in Namaqualand, is just a short drive from the national park. Springbok is steeped in history, with its roots dating back to the 1850s, when it served as a vital copper mining hub. The town’s rich heritage is reflected in its architecture and museums.
Goegap Nature Reserve
Under the control of the Department of Environment and Nature Conservation, Goegap Nature Reserve is situated just 15 km southeast of Springbok. Goegap features most of the Namakwa’s natural riches in 15,000 ha and is a must-see for nature lovers. The reserve supports close to 600 Indigenous flower species: visitors can experience the park’s abundant fauna and flora with its serene tranquillity and isolation throughout the year. Attractions include the spectacular Hester Malan Wild Flower Garden, which contains an enormous collection of succulents endemic to the area: 581 different indigenous plants are found here, and some succulents are so rare they are found nowhere else on earth. The reserve is also home to 45 mammal species (including springbok, gemsbok and Hartmann’s mountain zebra), several species of reptile and amphibian, and 94 bird species, which include ostriches, black eagles, spotted dikkops and ground woodpeckers.
Goegap Nature Reserve features various routes for sedan vehicles and 2-4 rated four-by-four routes; there are also three hiking and mountain biking trails. Visitors may take advantage of three-hour guided tours in an open truck, conducted seasonally. Bookings for guided tours are essential and can be made with the reserve management. The reserve is open from 08:00 – 16:30 all year round. An entrance fee is payable at the gate. tel no.: 027 7189906; fax: 027 7189907. Limited accommodation is available.
Nature lovers will appreciate visiting the nearby Goegap Nature Reserve, which showcases the region’s unique flora and geological formations. The reserve offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.
Namaqualand Museum
The Namaqualand Museum in Springbok is a must-visit for a deeper understanding of the area’s history and culture. It houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of Namaqualand, from its geological formation to its mining history and cultural heritage.
Namaqualand National Park and its surrounding areas of Kamieskroon and Springbok offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re drawn by the enchanting wildflower displays, the rugged landscapes, or the rich history of the region, a visit to this corner of South Africa promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the wonder of Namaqualand, and let its unique charm leave an indelible mark on your soul.
ABOUT THE NAMAKWA AREA
Namakwa is a tourist destination where tourists can watch wildflowers in spring. The banks of the Orange River and the Namakwa coastline offer great hiking and four-by-four excursions for the outdoor enthusiast. At the same time, the nomadic Nama culture of the region is a unique drawcard. Stargazing in Sutherland, tasting Karoo Lamb chops in the Hantam area, and picturesque scenic drives in the Kamiesberg are popular among our existing tourist market.
The Namakwa region consists of the former Namaqualand and Hantam Karoo regions and is bordered by the Orange River to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Geographically, it is a semidesert area with hot summers, little rainfall, and cold winters.
|
SEASONS |
MONTHS |
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE |
AVERAGE RAINFALL |
|
Summer |
November to February |
Min. 17 °C, max. 33 °C |
4 ml |
|
Autumn |
March to April |
Min. 14 °C, max. 29 °C |
10 ml |
|
Winter |
May to August |
Min. 2 °C, max. 19 °C |
50 ml |
|
Spring |
September to October |
Min. 7 °C, max. 25 °C |
15 ml |
Namakwa is a tourist-friendly destination welcoming tourists from South Africa and abroad. Tourists who plan to travel to the Namakwa region may send their enquiries to email: tourismsbk@namakwa-dm.gov.za or tourismcalv@namakwa-dm.gov.za
FLOWER CHECKLIST
Flower-watching in Namakwa
Although the start of the flower season varies each year, it usually occurs from August to October. We monitor the natural landscape and report on the progress of the flower season as soon as the first Namakwa daisies—the first sign of spring—appear. Spring finally draws to a close when purple vygies bloom, during which the seeds of Namakwa daisies are naturally sown for the next flower season.
Namakwa Tourism issues a flower update every six days during springtime. Tourists can phone the Namakwa Flower Line at tel.: (072 7606019) for advice on flower-watching and other related activities. Operating hours are from 08h00 am until 20h00 pm, seven days per week from 01 August to 01 October. The flower line is active on public holidays.
Hotspots
– Nababeep
– Nouriver
-10 km on the way to Baievlei (Garies turn-off to Hondeklip Bay)
– Namaqua National Park
– Along the N14 outside Springbok
– Springbok town centre
– The Droëdap road en route to the Kokerboom nursery near Springbok – The road between Komaggas and Matjieskloof near the Naries Retreat – Okiep town centre
– On the road to Port Nolloth
– Handjieskraal near Kharkams
– Along the N7 between Garies and Kamieskroon
– Groot Hoog, along the road between Okiep and Concordia
– The road between Springbok and Bergsig
– Nouheep farm near Kamieskroon
– Farms near Nieuwoudtville
– Papkuilsfontein
– Along the N7 between Springbok and Steinkopf
– Loeriesfontein
– Matjiesfontein
– Bakleikraal
– Steinkopf in the Klipfontein area
– Goegap Nature Reserve
– Concordia
– Hantam Botanical Garden
– Calvinia
Tips
– Flowers are open from 11:00 – 15:00 during the daytime
– Flowers open only in sunshine
– A minimum temperature of 18 °C is necessary for flowers to open – Flowers do not open on rainy or overcast days
What to Wear
– Trousers when walking in the field – Comfortable shoes
Advice for Tourists
– Book accommodation in advance
– The Flower Line will be activated on public holidays during the flower season (such as Women’s Day in August and Heritage Day in September)
– Most towns along the designated flower routes have petrol stations, ATMs en mobile phone reception
Flower Maps
– Maps of the Namakwa and West Coast regions are available at all tourism offices, hotels and guest houses, restaurants, petrol stations and tourist stalls
– Maps are also available at the following parks and reserves: the Namaqua National Park, the Richtersveld and Tankwa Karoo National Park, the Goegap Nature Reserve, Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve and the Hantam National Botanical Garden
Namaqua Towns we visited
GARIES
Garies is situated approximately 112 km in a southern direction out of Springbok. In 1845, the owner of the farm, Goedeverwagting, donated land to the Dutch Reformed Church, and the town of Garies was established on this land. The town was named after the farm Goedeverwagting but later changed to Garies, a Khoisan word meaning “couch grass”. Garies has a grocery store, two petrol stations, a hospital, boarding schools, ATMs, restaurants, cafés, a tourist stall and accommodation establishments.
Access
Road: N7
KAMIESKROON
Kamieskroon is situated 67 km south of Springbok. Kamieskroon is set among the granite rock formations of the Kamiesberg Mountain ranges. The town was established in the 1860s, 7 km north of its present location. Formerly known as Bowesville (named after the district surgeon at the time, Dr. Henry Bowe), the name was later changed to Bowesdorp. In 1924, the church in Bowesdorp was demolished and rebuilt in Kamieskroon, as limited space hampered the expansion of the church building. Kamieskroon developed into a small town next to the N7 with a school, a hostel, a post office, a police station, guest houses, a hotel, a coffee shop, and a petrol station.
Tourist Information
Kamiesberg Municipality: tel no.: 027 6721627 Namaqua National Park: tel no.: 027 6721948
Attractions
– Lt. D Darter’s Grave: Visit the grave of a British officer killed during the Anglo-Boer War. The grave is located 15 km out of town and is the smallest piece of foreign land registered in South Africa.
Namaqua National Park is 21 km west of Kamieskroon and is one of SANPARK’s flower parks.
– Anatolian Dog Project: tel no.: 027 6721942
SPRINGBOK
Springbok is the central business district of the Namakhoi Municipal area and is a well-known stop-over destination between Cape Town (the capital of the Western Cape Province) and Windhoek (the capital of Namibia). The town is linked with the Western Cape and Namibia via the N7, and with the Siyanda district in the Northern Cape via the N14. Springbok is nestled in a valley surrounded by copper mountains, with a klipkoppie (hill/rock formation) in the town centre.
Springbok is located on the former farm of Melkboschkuil, which belonged to Jakobus Cloete. In 1852, the farm was bought for £750 # from the Cloete family by a mining company called Phillips & King, who established a copper mine on Melkboschkuil – the first commercial copper mining operation in South Africa. The monument of the Blue Mine and the smokestack are remainders of the copper-mining era in Springbok; an obelisk, erected at the Anglican Church between the Namakhoi Municipality and the Post Office in Springbok, commemorates Jacobus and his wife, Anna Cloete. In 1862, the name Melkboschkuil was changed to Springbokfontein, named after the springboks that roamed the area and the natural fountain between the Masonic and Springbok Hotel. This natural fountain was the water source for the area’s inhabitants and is still active today. Springbok has recently received her main water supply from the Orange River.
Monument Koppie is rich in history and dates back to the Anglo-Boer War (1899 to 1902). Boer forces wrested This little hillock from the British, and a monument was erected on Jowell’s Plain nearby to commemorate it. Anglo-Boer War graves can also be visited at the old cemetery on the western part of Springbok en route to Matjieskloof. During the Apartheid government’s Group Areas Act, Matjieskloof and Bergsig were classified as so-called “coloured” areas. Residents of colour were driven out of Springbok – an event which led to the alienation of the Anglican Church from its congregation as members were no longer permitted to attend services on the premises. The church was recently returned to the All Saints congregation in Bergsig. Matjieskloof is a Roman Catholic missionary town with a convent school for high school girls.
Springbok host 5 commercial banks, the Springbok Plaza, 6 petrol stations, well-known retail stores, sports facilities, a regional hospital, hair and beauty salons, real estate agents, restaurants and several accommodation establishments.. The town is the main tourist hub during the flower season, which starts in mid-August and lasts up to mid-September. Tourists are advised to book accommodation in advance. Weekly flower reports in high season are available on the following websites: www.namakwa-dm.gov.za or www.experiencenortherncape.com
Access
Roads: The N7 from the Cape to Namibia or the N14 (the Springbok/Upington route). Air: Charter flights
Bus: Intercape Bus Service: tel no.: 021 3804400;
Titus Taxis: tel no.: 027 7121381
Car Rental: Titus Car Rental: tel no.: 027 7121381
Tourist Information
Namakwa Tourism: tel no.: 027 7128034/8035/8036/8054; fax: 027 7121421; email: tourismsbk@ namakwa-dm.gov.za; web: www.namakwa-dm.gov.za; physical address: 40 Voortrekker Road, Springbok, 8240
Namaqualand Museum: tel no.: 027 7188100; physical address: Synagogue Street, Springbok, 8240
Attractions
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Anglo-Boer War Graves: En route to Matjieskloof
Blue Mine: Located on the western part of Springbok near the Namakhoi Municipality. A monument has been erected here in honour of the first commercial copper mine in South Africa.
DutchReformedChurch: This national monument was built in 1902 and is also known as “dieKlipkerk” (literally, “church of stone”) as it was built out of granite and other stones from the area. To visit the church, contact the church office at tel no. 027 7121429.
Goegap Nature Reserve is on the airport road 15 km from Springbok. Their office can be contacted at 027 7189906.
Monument Koppie/Klipkoppie: Situated in the centre of town. Indigenous plants are growing here in Springbok’s central business district (CBD).
Smelting Furnace: The smelting furnace is north of Springbok and is the oldest in Southern Africa. It has been out of use since 1871.
Namaqualand Museum The old Springbok synagogue now hosts the Namaqualand Museum. Hours: 08:00 – 17:00, Mondays to Fridays. Tel no.: 027 7188100.
Springbok Golf Course: Situated on the airport road. tel no.: 082 5954972
Springbok Fountain is Situated between the Masonic and Springbok Hotel in the CBD of Springbok.
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