The Augrabies Falls National Park was established to protect the Augrabies Falls, which rushes through the largest granite gorge in the world. 'Aukoerebies' is a Khoi name for 'the place of the Great Noise', referring to the Orange River. The Orange River is the park’s focal point, flowing first over a series of rapids, then through a narrow gorge before dropping 56m over the main waterfall. This is without doubt one of the most spectacular scenic sights in South Africa and is particularly impressive when the river is high. Picturesque names such as Moon Rock, Ararat and Echo Corner are descriptive of this rocky region.The lesser Bridal Veil Waterfall, located along the northern wall of the gorge, cascades 75m into the river below.
At the main complex near the entrance to the Augrabies National park is a shop, restaurant, and bar. Paths lead from here down to the falls. Visitors can explore the 39km Klipspringer trail in the southern section of the park which affords superb views of the gorge and surrounding desert. Trips downriver in a rubber dinghy as well as tours of the parks northern section where the black rhino can be seen are also on offer.
Animals that inhabit Augrabies National park include, the black rhino being the largest mammal of the park, springbok, klipspringer and steenbok, rock dassies, squirrels, baboons, vervet monkeys, leopards, caracal, black-backed jackal and the bat-eared fox. About 161 bird species have been recorded, including the black and martial eagles. Reptiles flourish in these hot, semi-desert conditions and one in particular that is frequently seen is the brightly coloured Cape flat lizard. |
