A vast area of the Northern Cape’s huge semi-desert is a Cinderella environment. Most of the year it is harsh and dry, but after the winter rainfall (mid-August to mid-September is best) it is transformed by millions of brightly coloured daisies, mesembryanthemums, aloes and lilies. Namaqua National Park boasts with a kaleidescope of indigenous flora species every spring time and it is for this reason alone that people are drawn to the area. The landscape is dotted not only with fields of brightly coloured daisies in spring, but there are also quiver trees, massive granite outcrops, quartz patches, and a sky so vast, it has to be seen to be believed - small wonder that it has been coined 'big sky country'.
The Namaqua National Park lies 495 kilometres from Cape Town, and close to the little town of Kamieskroon, just off the N7 route to Namibia. There is a circular drive perfect for the spring flower season with viewpoints along the route, a number of short nature trails, picnic sites, and the chance to see the world’s smallest tortoise - the Namaqua Speckled Padloper. The fauna in the Namaqua National Park has adapted to survive in the harsh Namaqualand environment: small, hardy antelopes, aardvarks, baboons, jackals and leopards eke out their existence here. Needless to say,the Namaqua National Park is not a typical safari destination, but it's hugely rewarding for people who are interested in unique ecosystems and natural phenomena. |
