Northern Cape: Waterfalls, Sand and History

In the Northern Cape, waterfalls, remarkable sand phenomena, landscapes and history come together. The Augrabies Falls plunge 56 metres into an 18-kilometre-long gorge; in the Witsand Nature Reserve, an unusual combination of geology and climate makes the sand “roar”. There are also routes through Namaqua habitats and history-related attractions in Kimberley. Deciding which of these aspects to make the focus of your trip is a good starting point for choosing a holiday apartment.

Waterfalls, Landscapes and Starry Skies

The Augrabies Falls National Park lies on the banks of the Orange River. The Augrabies Falls plunge 56 metres into an 18-kilometre-long gorge. The drop and the length of the gorge describe two different dimensions of this landscape: the waterfall itself and the extensive gorge into which it plunges.

In the Witsand Nature Reserve, geological and climatic features cause the desert sand to “roar”. Three vegetation types from arid regions and bushveld also meet there, attracting more than 170 bird species. The meeting of different habitats is as much a part of the reserve’s natural character as the unusual sand phenomenon.

The Tankwa Karoo National Park lies along the southern border of the Northern Cape. The Roggeveld Escarpment is to the east, the Cederberg to the west and the Klein Roggeveld Mountains to the south. In the park, visitors can observe the night sky beneath a dark sky strewn with countless stars. The landscape and stargazing give this destination two distinct points of interest.

Routes and Outdoor Activities

The 4x4 route in the Namaqua National Park runs from the Skilpad Wildflower Reserve through Namaqua-area habitats, from the mountains to the coast, and ends at the mouth of the Groen River. Seasonal conditions can affect individual sections. If this route is part of your plans, check conditions before your trip.

In the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, visitors can explore the area in a 4x4 vehicle or travel along the river by paddle boat. Check vehicle and river conditions before your trip. The hiking-trail base camp is in the Ganakouriep Valley and accommodates 9 people. The trail itself is closed because of a shortage of qualified guides; check visitor access before you arrive.

These options have different points of focus: the Namaqua route is described as a 4x4 route, while the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park offers both driving and travelling along the river by paddle boat. The access restriction on the hiking trail is an important planning consideration and should not be confused with the other two activities.

The Big Hole and Museum Exhibits

Guided tours led by a site guide are offered at the visitor centre of The Big Hole. Individuals and families do not need to book. As operational details may change, check the latest visitor information before your visit. The display of real diamonds at the Big Hole site features thousands of gemstones. From the viewing platform, visitors can see the excavation from above; the platform is 30 Cape feet wide and 30 Cape feet long.

In Kimberley, the Alexander McGregor Memorial Museum, as a history museum, highlights the “Kimberley Firsts”. Exhibitions at the McGregor Museum cover the environment, archaeology and history of the Northern Cape. These topics offer a different way to explore the region than waterfalls, sand and routes: the focus here is on the history and development of the Northern Cape.

Choosing the Right Holiday Apartment for Your Travel Interests

Base your holiday apartment search on the destinations you actually plan to include in your trip. This way, your choice of location reflects your interests, rather than selecting accommodation separately from the experiences you have planned.

Discover Other Subregions

Discover other subregions: Kgalagadi, Pixley Ka Seme, Siyanda, Frances Baard, Namakwa, John Taolo Gaetsewe, Bo-Karoo, Diamandveld, Keimoes, Kalahari District Council, Benede Oranje.

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