Glamping between the ocean and flowers at this Northern Cape beach camp

TThe Namaqua National Park is also home to a small flamboyance of flamingos that can be observed from a distance.  

Kamieskroon and surrounds

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The view from the front of Die Kliphuis Kombuis (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

There is quite a bit to be done 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’s a variety of experiences for travellers to enjoy.

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A quiver tree forest (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

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 wherein they would stow their arrows.

Today, visitors can take guided tours and explore the unique topography of the area. 

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(Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

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. 

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The hills are alive with colour (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

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 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

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Anchor yourself at Noup Camp (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

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. 

One 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. 

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The Piratiny (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

The story of the Piratiny (above) harks back to June, 1943. Inclement, tempestuous weather caused the Piratiny to run aground on the rocky coast at Schulp Point, 32 kilometres north of Hondeklipbaai. 

Weeks later, a heavy storm raged through the area and left the beach covered with wreckage, silks and a variety of other cargoes. 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.

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The Border (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

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

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The reverse side of the sign reads "topless photos only", which tells you a lot about the quirky character of this small town icon (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

A breezy 105 kilometres 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.

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The entrance to the eclectically decorated Crazy Crayfish Diner in Kleinzee (Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

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.  

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(Photo: Ethan Van Diemen)

If you're not convinced about this spot, read this review and see if it doesn't change your mind. The Namaqua Coastal Route and all its various unique spots make this well worth the trip.

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