South Africa's Augrabies Falls National Park

Useful Information

History

The Augrabies Waterfall name derives from the Khoi word “Aukoerebis,” meaning “Place of Great Noise,” a reference to the Orange River thundering through the gorge and over the 56 m drop. People have lived here since the Early Stone Age; evidence includes tools, weapons, and primitive graves.

Today, the Nama people’s rounded “matjieshuise” or “mat houses” testify to ingenious adaptation: in summer the open weave allows cooling breezes; in winter the stems swell to insulate against the cold. The falls and surrounding desert landscape connect natural spectacle with living culture.

Wildlife

Augrabies is renowned for birding. Look for Verreaux’s eagle, pygmy falcon, pale chanting goshawk, rosy-faced lovebird, and an isolated population of Double-banded Sandgrouse. Rock hyrax are common on sunny ledges. Klipspringer, giraffe, eland, steenbok, springbok, gemsbok, and kudu occur, and the locally endemic Augrabies flat lizard is a sought-after sighting. Nocturnal highlights include aardwolf, bat-eared fox, African wild cat, spotted genet, and the elusive leopard.

Vegetation & Terrain

The Nama Karoo biome, though arid, is species-rich. Granite boulders and open shrublands frame immense gorges along the Orange River. Nearly 70 grasses, shrubs, herbs, and trees typify the area. The giant aloe provides vital summer nectar; camel thorn, sweet thorn, shepherd’s tree, and Namaqua fig form striking silhouettes at dusk.

Activities

Visit panoramic viewpoints—Augrabies Waterfall, Echo Corner, Moon Rock, Oranjekrom & Ararat, Swart Rante, and Arrow Point. The park is a birding hotspot; from Oranjekrom & Ararat, scan for Verreaux’s eagle hunting hyrax. Game and bird-viewing drives are popular, especially at night. Hikes, walks, and bike trails—including the three-day, 35.8 km Klipspringer Trail—offer expansive canyon and desert vistas.

Cool off in designated swimming pools during the heat of the day, or opt for adventure activities—such as hot-air ballooning and canoeing—by prior arrangement. Pack ample water, sun protection, and a hat; this region often experiences extreme heat.