With wonderful landscapes, interesting cultural heritage, heart-throbbing adventures and incredible flora & fauna, the Northern Cape in South Africa is a paradise for holidaymakers. It is the largest, yet the least populated of the country’s provinces; so you can expect it to be aloof, untamed and unperturbed. Some of the magnetizing attractions that draw holidaymakers to this part of South Africa are listed below:
The Kalahari Desert
The Northern Cape’s Kalahari Desert is widely acclaimed for its unique geography and wildlife. People come here to enjoy the uninterrupted views of the red sand dunes, and spectacular sunset. Some of its areas are dotted with grass and acacias, and hence support an enchanting wildlife including antelope, hyenas, giraffe, warthogs, and the famous black-maned lions. No wonder, it remains a favourite hunt of wildlife enthusiasts as well.
Big Hole in Kimberley
Once a flat-topped mound is now the largest hand-dug excavation in the world. About 215 meters deep and with a perimeter of 1.6kms, this mammoth hole was dug to extract diamonds, hidden under the earth surface. Near to the site is an excellent museum, which portrays the perilous 19th century mining conditions. Here, tourists can see the old jigging machines as well as grease tables, which were designed to extract the diamonds from ore.
The Vaalhart valley
Dotted with lush green farmlands, lofty mountains and two mighty rivers, the Vaal and the Harts, the beautiful valley of Vaalhart is like a breath of fresh air. Apart from the enchanting beauty of nature, tourists get to savour various local delicacies, made with fresh ingredients. Exciting activities like quad biking, horse-riding and bird-watching will surely add to your surreal experience here.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
An untamed wilderness that stretches up to a staggering 3.6 million hectares, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream destination. Since it is not much crowded, safaris here prove to be more enthralling than in many other parks of South Africa. Big games like pygmy falcons, antelopes, giraffes and lions are usually sighted here. For those looking for serene moments in the lap of the nature, this is a just perfect place.
Namaqualand’s Spring Flowers
Every year between July and September, hordes of tourists flock to the Northern Cape Namaqualand Valley to witnesses an incredible display of wild flowers of fascinatingly varied hues. The entire region looks like an endless carpet of flowers. Adding to the popularity is the fact that approximately 4000 species of prehistoric plants can be found in the region.
Augrabies Falls National Park
The national park offers an enthralling mix of nature and adventure, and hence is the most popular tourist attraction in the Northern Cape. Take hot air balloon ride to explore its breathtaking landscapes, try exciting water adventures in the Orange River, visit the legendary Augrabies Falls, or enjoy interesting local tribe cultures – there is so much to keep visitors happily occupied.
