A visual guide to the Namaqua Coastal Route of the Northern Cape

KKamieskroon and surrounds

There is quite a bit to do in the Kamieskroon area, whether heading off to the quiver tree forests or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the homely little restaurants serving up farm-style food — there exists a great variety of experiences for travellers to enjoy.

You may not believe it but the above picture is of a forest. A quiver tree forest to be exact. These trees are named for their historical use by the first peoples of this area that would use the hollowed out branches of the trees as a makeshift quiver to stow their arrows. Today, visitors can take guided tours and explore the unique topography of the area. 

Another worthwhile addition to your Namaqua Coastal Route itinerary is the Namaqua National Park. It should come as no surprise that any guide to Namaqualand would have something that deals with flowers included in it – and for good reason. 

When the winter rains cease and make way for the blossoms of spring, the sandy alluvial valleys and granite outcrops are punctuated by a blanket of colour, transforming the landscape seemingly overnight. Butterflies hover, birds dart about and dance in the wind, with the rich floral splendour that characterises much of the Namaqua National Park in the springtime, serving as a breathtaking backdrop. 

Diamond Coast and surrounds

Check out the towns of Hondeklip Bay and Koiingnaas for an authentic experience of the Northern Cape's coastal areas. Charming, former fishing villages hide intriguing stories and legends. Many of these legends and stories can be found on the 4x4 Shipwreck Trail on the Diamond Coast.  

Through the years, the stormy Atlantic Ocean has often been an obstacle, preventing many ocean-going vessels from completing their voyages and sending them to a watery grave on the coastline between the Koingnaas and Kleinzee. The factual history of these shipwrecks has often been enriched by the whispers and speculations of local folklore. The story of the Piratiny (above) harks back to the June of 1943. Inclement, tempestuous weather caused the Piratiny to run aground on the rocky coast at Schulp Point, 32km north of Hondeklipbaai. Weeks later, a heavy storm raged through the area and left the beach covered in wreckage, silks and a variety of other cargo. The locals, not missing a beat, readily helped themselves to the fabrics, dress materials and whatever else seemed to be of use. At the very next nagmaal (communion service), scores of churchgoers were 'coincidentally' decked out in brand new garments and outfits.

From the beautiful, cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean littered as it once was with the glittering stones that are the lifeblood of Namaqualand, to the local legends and stories told around fires, there is much to see, do and enjoy here.  

Kleinzee

A breezy 105km west of Springbok is the old mining town of Kleinzee. The closure of much of the diamond mining operations in the area has necessitated an emergence of creative, innovative ways to bring money into the tiny coastal town. The Crazy Crayfish embodies this emergent spirit best with its eclectic decor and word-of-mouth popularity that sees people visit from all over the area.  

As South Africa's largest province (slightly larger than Germany), whether you prefer the ocean, the desert, the bush, or off-the-wall towns deeply rich in history and culture, the Northern Cape is a must-visit traveller's destination. This list is by no means a holistic accounting of all the experiences and attractions that are on offer to travellers. Make sure you take to the Namaqua Coastal Route and see the rest for yourself.