Namaqua National Park
Western Cape South Africa
Namaqua National Park
As if by magic a tapestry of brilliant colours unfold enticingly
along the winding roads of the Namaqua National Park. Butterflies,
birds and long-tongued flies dart around among the flowers, seemingly
overwhelmed by the abundance and diversity. Every turn in the road
paints an unforgettable picture: valleys filled with Namaqualand
daisies and other spring flowers that pulse with sheer energy and
joy.
Next to some eye-catching succulents, a porcupine and a tall aloe
pay witness to a baboon overturning a rock and pouncing on a scorpion.
During early August and September, seemingly overnight, the dusty
valleys of Namaqualand are transformed into a wonderland, carpeted
with wildflowers. With its winter rainfall, Namaqualand is home
to the richest bulb flora of any arid region in the world and more
than a 1 000 of its estimated 3 500 plant species are found nowhere
else on earth.
Escape to the land of contrasts, where the rigorous climate has
created a myriad of life forms superbly adapted to their specific
habitat. Fields of flowers, star studded nights, quiver trees, enormous
granite outcrops and the icy Atlantic are but a few wonders that
await the visitor to what is truly the Creators’ playground.
5 Things To Seek
· Carpets of flower (in season)
· Quiver trees
· Klipspringer
· Black Harrier
· Quartz Patches
Did you know that...
· Namaqua National Park is situated in the world's only arid
biodiversity hotspot?
· It is home to the world's smallest tortoise, the Namaqua
Speckled Padloper?
· It conserves the world's richest succulent flora?
· It is world renowned for its spectacular spring flower
displays?
Namaqua National Park accommodation
Skilpad Rest Camp provides 4 chalets, each with 2 single
beds in the bedroom and a ¾-sleeper couch (suitable for 1
adult or 2 children) in the open plan living room / kitchen. A dining
area is available on the enclosed veranda and an indoor fireplace
and an outside braai area is also provided. The units come equipped
with ceiling fans and 220V electricity.
One unit (#3) has been adapted for use by guests with challenged
mobility. The kitchen is fully equipped with crockery and cutlery,
cooking utensils, glassware, a 4-plate stove, microwave, fridge
/ freezer combo, kettle and toaster.
The Namaqua National Park is situated near Kamieskroon (22km from
the Park offices) in the Northern Cape Province.
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