Namaqua National Park
This park is easily the most popular attraction along this route. Boasting some of the most spectacular floral displays each spring, quartz patches, iconic Quiver Trees and unspoilt coastline, travellers will enjoy exploring this park, which is situated in one of two arid biodiversity hotspots.
Namaqua National Park
Angela Isaks
angela.isaks@sanparks.org
T +27 27 672 1948 / +27 83 640 4915
Nama Culture
The people make this route what it is. Be sure to enjoy a traditional meal and even take a guided tour to learn more about the Nama people, their way of life and heritage. Adventurous travellers can enjoy overnight stays in traditional Nama huts.
Geology
The Kamiesberg Mountains are made up of granite inselbergs peppered across the Namaqualand landscape. Not only are they geologically of interest but they also provide excellent adventure activities like hiking and mountain biking. Namaqualand is also renowned for its copper and diamond deposits and stories of early pioneers and prospectors who explored the desolate area in search of riches stir the imagination..
4×4 Shipwreck Trail
This strictly guided trail hugs the rocky and temperamental Atlantic coastline in a one way route between Koingnaas in the south and Kleinzee in the north. Travellers can enjoy swimming, surfing, birding, angling and golf around Kleinzee and Koingnaas.
Fauna and Flora
Each year between August and September, Namaqualand daisies and more than 3 500 floral species emerge in spring to offer one of the world’s greatest flower shows. The mountains are green and the smell of wild flowers lingers in the air, so birders should pack their binoculars and bird books, as many feathered species come out to play round this time of year.
Things to do on the Namaqua Coastal Route
There are kilometers of pristine coastline to explore, nature reserves, slow-living guest farms, retreats, 4×4 routes, specialist photographic and botanical tours, museums, local cuisine to be enjoyed, remote hiking trails, fantastic birding spots, surfing, angling, boat excursions and much, much more to experience.
Eat & Sleep
The Namaqua Coastal Route will offer you a wide variety of culinary delights. For the adventurous diner, order a traditional meal like roast “Skaapkop” (Sheep head – and often referred to as a Smiley) For the less brave, there are other wonderful treats such as straight-off-the-coals “Roosterkoek” (bread baked over an open fire). Along the coast, do try the catch of the day or even some oysters fresh from the sea from the oyster farm in Kleinzee. Crayfish is an enormous treat during season but be sure to familiarize yourself with the legislation regarding the catching and purchasing of crayfish. Venison is also often an option on the menu.Several establishments offer a real fine-dining experience. Because of the distances to fresh markets, be sure to alert your host of any special dietary requirements ahead of time so that they can give you the best possible experience
Culture & Leisure
Stargazers, history boffins and soul searchers will all feel welcome here. Go succulent sleuthing with a botanical guide or hike the Springbok Klipkoppie for a dose of Anglo- Boer War history. Visit the Blue Mine along the Kleinzee Road or look out for the traditional Matjieshuisies (directly translated to Houses of Mats) of the Nama people and book a stay in one of these unique homes.
Adventure & Adrenaline
Mountain bikes, hiking boots, binoculars, trail shoes, GPS, power kites and celestial scopes. You had better bring all your toys, because you will need them in this incredible outdoor arena. Hike the Silver Sands Trail on the edge of the icy Atlantic or pedal among oryx within the Goegap Nature Reserve. Just get out there and clear your mind!
