Namakwa Travel Directory

General Information

The Namakwa is a seemingly arid, semi desert region hiding huge reservoirs of mineral and floral wealth, situated in the Northern Cape region of South Africa.   This is a land where ancient history, modern technology and the universe come together in harmonious glory!   Namakwa encompasses the unspoiled expanses of Namaqualand and Hantam Karoo and it is a land of mystery and enchantment moulded by the unforgiving climate.

Lava mountains display impossible rock formations, nature reserves abound with game and birdlife, unusual vegetation blanket the vast tracts of land and with the magic of spring the desert bursts into a canvas of brilliant floral colours that have become world renowned.   Every year from July to September, the Namaqualand desert explodes with no fewer than 4000 species of flowers, 1000 unique to the region, paint the desert in colours that astound and amaze visitors without fail!

Activities in the Namakwa region

 The 1 000-ha Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve west of Kamieskroon is a prime location - close to the coast, it's less dry than neighbouring areas. The Kamiesberg mountains offer superb mountain biking.

Bird lovers relish Goegap Nature Reserve, with 92 bird species, including majestic black eagles.  A guided tour in an open truck lets you share their view.

The Richtersveld National Park is a stark lunar wilderness of gold, yellow, pink, white and purple. This World Heritage Site also hosts numerous animal, bird and plant species, including the uncanny halfmens succulent, named after its resemblance to a human silhouette.  Warning:  a 4x4 is mandatory in this terrain.

If you enjoy challenges and adventure why not try rafting down the Orange River?  You do not have to be fit or experienced - qualified river guides make sure you can just enjoy the scenery, swim, and fish.

Come and experience the land of the Nama, a kingdom of contrasts and great natural beauty!

Please view our activities directory for information on things to do here.

Accommodation in the Namakwa region

There is a wide variety of visitor accommodation options that are available from guest houses to self-catering cottages, bed and breakfasts and much more.  Please view our accommodation directory for more information on the accommodation in the area.

Business Directory

For information on the businesses you can find in the Namakwa region of the Northern Cape, please view our business directory.

The Namakwa region offers a variety of restaurants to suit every taste.