Explore the National Parks of the Northern Cape
Explore the National Parks of the Northern Cape
Explore the National Parks of the Northern Cape : The Northern Cape is the largest province in South Africa and a must visit region, whether you prefer ocean, the desert, the bush or quirky towns rich in history. Spanning vast arid landscapes, the Northern Cape is a realm of stark beauty and rich heritage. From the beautiful and thunderous Augrabies Falls to the serene expanses of the Kalahari Desert. This province offers a unique blend of natural marvels and cultural treasures.
The Northern Cape captivates you with its diverse attractions. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, renowned for its red dunes and black-maned lions, or witness the seasonal bloom in Namaqua National Park, where arid lands transform into vibrant wildflower carpets.
The Augrablies Falls National Park showcases the majestic “place of great noise,” where the Orange River plunges dramatically. For adventure seekers, the Richtersveld Transfrontier Park offers rugged terrains ideal for 4z4 trails and hiking. Cultural experiences abound in towns like Kimberly, home to the historic Big Hole, and Upington, a gateway to the Green Kalahari.
The province’s rich Khoi-San heritage is evident in ancient rock art sites scattered across the region. Whether you are drawn to its natural wonders, historical landmarks or the warm hospitality of its people, the Northern Cape promises an unforgettable experience through South Africa’s frontier of wonders.
Here are the national parks to explore in the Northern Cape.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Situated on the banks of the Dry Nossob River bed, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is the most rewarding safari destination for those seeking an adventure along the trails. The park covering both Botswana and South Africa is the first park in Africa to extend over two separate countries and its wildlife and remoteness leads to a deep appreciation of the Kgalagadi Wilderness.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is known for delivering great wildlife sightings, though you will not be able to spot the Big Five, you will have incredible sightings of predators. The park boasts leopards, cheetahs, brown and spotted hyenas and bat-eared fox amongst. others.
Other residents of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park include antelopes such as the oryx, springbok, eland and kudu which are easily seen on game drives.
Augrabies Falls National Park
Named after the majestic Augrabies Falls, Augrabies Falls National Park is an unbelievably beautiful park covering 55,383 hectares on both the southern and northern sides of the Orange River. Khoi People, the natives of the area called the park “Aukoerebis” or the place of great noise, asthis powerful flow of water is unleashed from rocky surroundings characterized by the 18km abyss of the Orange River Gorge.
The park provides sanctuary to a diversity of species, from the very smallest succulents, birds and reptiles to Hartmann’s mountain zebras, springbok, gemsbok and giraffes. The areas of special interests in Augrabies Falls National Park are the Augrabies Falls, Moon Rock, Swart Rante, Oranjekoma & Ararat, Echo Corner.
There are lots of things to see and do in Augrabies Falls National Park including the Dassie Nature Trail, a circular 5km self-guided trail that leads you up a gorge up until Arrow Point, takes you over Moon Rock and then back to your starting point. After a long day of hiking and taking in the faint sounds of nature, you can relax at the park’s resting camp with accommodation options ranging from camp accommodation and caravan sites to two-sleeper chalets and family cottages.
Mokala National Park
Situated 70 km south – southwest of Kimberley, and west of the N12 freeway to Cape Town, the Mokala National Park is one of the Northern Cape’s many hidden gem. The park’s name is derived from Setswana and named after Camel Thorn trees.
Mokala National Park covers an area of 26,485 hectares of land, the park was initially established as a reserve on 19th June 2007, in the Plooysburg area South-west of Kimberley in the Northern Cape. It is the newest park in South Africa.
The park’s landscape blends koppieveld (hills) with open plains creating a secluded yet expansive setting. Drainage lines from the hills feed into the Riet River on the northern border.
Mokala National Park plays a vital role in species conservation and is home to black and white rhinos, buffaloes, Tsessebe, Roan and Sable Antelope, Giraffe, Eland, Zebra, and more. Its diverse habitats also attract numerous bird species, including the black-chested prinia, pygmy falcon, and northern black Korhaan.
As you are planning a holiday to South Africa, make it a point to include the Northern Cape and its national parks in your South Africa Safari Itinerary. Check out of our packages to find a perfect adventure for you.
Best Time to visit and explore the national parks of the Northern Cape
The best time to explore the Northern Cape is from late July to November when the impressive Kaleidoscope of blooming wild flowers in the Namakwa and Green Kalahari regions of the Northern Cape
