Namaqualand

The Namaqualand region of the Northern Cape is bordered in the North by the Orange River and Namibia border and in the West by the rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is best known for the profusion of wildflowers that burst into colour during the Spring months of August and September. Normally a drab colourless desert during the remainder of the year, the annual Spring rainfall is enough to germinate millions of flowers turning the desert into a mass of brilliant colour. The Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve has recently been incorporated into the Namaqua National Park. Skilpad is situated in a mountainous area about 25 kilometres from Kamieskroon. The reserve sits on shrubland and abandoned wheatlands and is a site that should not be missed by visitors to the area.

The largest and most important town in the Namaqualand region of the Northern Cape is Alexander Bay. Diamonds were discovered along the West coast of South Africa and Namibia in 1925 and Alexander Bay became well known for its mining activities. Situated at the mouth of the Orange River, the town is no longer a high-security area and permits are no longer needed. The town takes its name from Sir James Alexander, who shipped copper ore that was mined in the Richtersveld and transported in barges down the Orange River for export from the town. On the Orange River estuary there is a bird sanctuary renowned for its numerous species, and on a hilltop to the East of the town is the world�s largest lichen-field where 26 species of lichen can be found.

The Namaqualand region town of Springbok (formally Springbokfontein) is set in a narrow valley that bisects the granite hills of the Klein Kopperberge (small copper mountains). The town gets its name from the vast herds of springbok that used to drink at the waterholes in the area. There are plentiful reminders of the early days when copper was mined in this area, including the original shaft sunk by the Cape Governor Simon van der Stel in1685. Just a few kilometers outside the town is the Goegap Nature Reserve, a wildflower reserve of more than 12000 hectares. During the Anglo-Boer War the British built a fort on the hillock in the centre of town. The fort was later destroyed by dynamite planted by a commando led by General Jan Smuts. Across the town square, at the famous Springbok Lodge, photographs adorn the walls and there is a fascinating collection of mineral samples and semiprecious stones. Springbok is an important stopover for any visitor to Namaqualand.

A few kilometers to the South of Alexander Bay lies the small holiday resort of Port Nolloth. Port Nolloth has a small harbour with an entrance too small for ore carriers. The town has developed into a small centre for small-scale diamond recovery and crayfishing industries and is the only holiday resort on the Diamond Coast. There is good line-fishing to be enjoyed here, and fish and crayfish can be bought from the factory in season.

At the southern extreme of Namaqualand lies the town of Nieuwoudtville and its adjacent nature reserve. Nieuwoudtville lies on the bokkeveld Escarpment and is another area famous for its unique vegetation. The small town is full of charisma and has colourful sandstone buildings. Close to the town is the impressive Nieuwoudtville Waterfall. The sight is an interesting example of river capture, the Doring River being one that originally flowed inland and was captured after the breakup of Gondwanaland some 195 million years ago. The main waterfall is over 90 metres high, and Black Eagles have been seen nesting there.

Namaqualand, located in the Northern Cape of South Africa, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, particularly the wildflower displays that occur in spring.

Here are ten things to see or do in the Namaqualand region:

1. Namaqua National Park: Visit this park to experience the breathtaking spring wildflower bloom, which usually occurs between August and September. The park also offers opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and picnicking.

2. Goegap Nature Reserve: Explore this reserve, which boasts a variety of flora and fauna, scenic hiking trails, and the Hester Malan Wild Flower Garden. It’s a great spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

3. Skilpad Wildflower Reserve: Located within the Namaqua National Park, this area is famous for its dense carpets of wildflowers during the blooming season. It’s a must-visit for those looking to capture the iconic Namaqualand flower displays.

4. Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: Experience the rugged beauty of this mountainous desert region, known for its unique flora, including the rare halfmens (half-human) plants, and the traditional lifestyle of the Nama people.

5. Namaqualand Flower Route: Take a scenic drive along this route to witness the colorful wildflower displays across various towns and landscapes. The route typically includes stops in Springbok, Kamieskroon, and Port Nolloth.

6. Hondeklip Bay: Visit this small coastal village to enjoy the tranquility of the Atlantic Ocean, fresh seafood, and picturesque rock formations, including the famous Dog Stone (Hondeklip).

7. Namaqua Wine Route: Explore this lesser-known wine region, which offers unique wines produced in the harsh Namaqualand climate. Enjoy wine tasting and tours at local wineries.

8. Springbok: Spend time in this charming town, which serves as a gateway to the Namaqualand wildflower region. Visit the Springbok Lodge & Restaurant, and check out local historical sites like the Blue Mine and the Springbok Church.

9. Port Nolloth: Discover this coastal town’s history as a diamond mining port. Enjoy the beach, visit the Port Nolloth Museum, and take a walk along the picturesque harbor.

10. Garies: Stop in this small town to explore its cultural heritage, visit local markets, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Garies is also a great starting point for exploring nearby hiking trails and scenic drives.

Visiting Namaqualand offers a unique opportunity to witness one of nature's most spectacular floral displays and to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of the region.