Namaqualand is truly a land of wonder situated in a dry semi desert along the Western and Northern Cape of South Africa. After sitting dormant for nine months Namaqualand is quickly transformed into a spectacular flower carpet with a magnificent explosion of color that lights up the lands after the winter rains and hosts a whopping 4000 + plant species with approx 40% epidemic to the area.
This amazing hot spot is made up of two main sections separated by the (Gariep) Orange River. In the north into Namibia is Greater Namaqualand, in the south is South Africa’s Little Namaqualand. From the Atlantic Ocean in the west it stretches eastwards to the quaint little town of Pofadder. This region is characterized by its sheer natural beauty which is enhanced when the annual flower spectacle of the Namaqualand daisies dominating the flora.
Namaqualand daisies are not the only plants thriving in the area with stunning lilies, aloes, perennial herbs and many other wildflower species dotting in clusters between. The extreme conditions under which these plants survive and flourish is even more amazing to see and not to be missed.
There are several things to consider when traveling in Namaqualand. The best time of the year to go is August to September, best viewing times to see the flowers is between 11:00 and 15:00 with the flowers only opening in sunny weather. When driving take the time to make several stops where you can view many different flower species. Locals are very friendly and will be glad to help you with directions as well as assisting you in finding the best flower spots.
Touring Namaqualand during spring is a unique South African experience, one that visitors never forget!
Written by Michelle Lewis – Acacia Sales/Marketing