Namaqua National Park
Tel: +27 (0)27 672 1948
Fax: +27 (0)27 672 1015
Email: elanza.vanlente@sanparks.org
Website: http://www.sanparks.co.za/parks/namaqua/
The park was proclaimed in 2001 to conserve the rich diversity of plants in the Succulent Karoo Biome – identified as one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots.
Mammal species that have adapted to these harsh conditions include klipspringer, aardvark, baboon, steenbok, duiker, porcupine, black-backed jackal and leopard. Although SANParks have reintroduced springbok, red hartebeest and gemsbok, this 141,000ha park does not have large herds of big game. Instead, its magic is revealed during the winter rainfall months when carpets of endemic flowers transform the seemingly desolate scenery into a blaze of colour and beauty.
- See the flowers – nature puts on a technicolour dreamcoat of flowers in the late winter months, with August a recommended month for optimal viewing.
- Look for the little stuff – search for the world’s smallest tortoise, the Namaqua Speckled Padloper, delicate succulents and an array of endemic amphibians and reptiles.
- Take the Caracal Eco-Trail –this rugged 4 x 4 route takes you through a wide range of Namaqua habitats, from mountains to coast.
- Listen to the desert – visitors to the park out of season can experience solitude and relax in one of the park’s cottages.
- Camp in a flower field - in the height of the flower season, SANParks and SA Experiences sets up a temporary camp at Delwerskamp, a coastal site about 1km from the Groenrivier office. Accommodation consists of domed tents,
