Namaqua National Park

Situated in the heart of the succulent Karoo, the Park has grown enormously and stretches from the well-known Skilpad section near Kamieskroon, on the escarpment, westwards to the coast. The recently added ‘Groen-Spoeg’ coastal section is the only significant remaining untouched section of the Namaqualand coast. The gradient from the escarpment to the coast is important from an upland-lowland and rainfall perspective and contributes to the rich variety of species in the Park.

With its winter rainfall, Namaqualand is home to the richest bulb flora of any arid region in the world. More than 1 000 of its estimated 3 500 plant species are found nowhere else on earth! Amphibians and reptiles are also well represented, with a number of endemic species. The mammals that have adapted to these harsh conditions include: gemsbok, springbok, red hartebeest, klipspringer, aardvark, baboon, steenbok, duiker, porcupine, black-backed jackal and leopard. Many bird species are also found in the dry arid western regions of the country.

Attractions & Activities

The Park is still in a development phase but has a lot to offer its visitors. The best known, and at this stage most popular part of the Park, is the 5km Skilpad circular route especially in the springtime flower season.
Besides the famous spring flowers, the Park is home to 134 different vegetation types, many small fauna species, amazing bird life and a fascinating collection of reptiles.
A great way to explore Skilpad is by mountain bike. Visitors should bring their own mountain bikes.
There are two 2-hour walking trails, a picnic area with ablutions and a shop and kiosk at Skilpad.
The rest of the Park is accessible to 4x4 vehicles through 220km of roads that includes roads to an unspoilt coastline and a 25km route, with lovely vistas, to Soebatsfontein.

Accommodation

Skilpad

Rest camp

All four chalets are perched on an escarpment and have uninterrupted views to the far away coastline. They have a separate bedroom, lounge, open plan kitchen and enclosed veranda with dining area, as well as indoor and outside braai facilities. They have electricity and are fully equipped for self-catering - one unit has been adapted for use by guests with challenged mobility. The neighbouring farm has a tea room, which provides light snacks. Activities include 2 hour walking trails, mountain biking and a 4x4 trail.

Luiperdskloof

Cottage

Luiperdskloof lies in a secluded valley in the Kamiesberg section of the Park, beneath a pair of imposing granite domes. The area is dotted with fountains, some with shady glades - perfect for picnics or just some quiet time. It can only be reached by 4x4. The cottage can accommodate 6 people, in two bedrooms. You have gas heating and a stove, with paraffin lighting.

Namaqua Coastal

Camping

The pristine coastline from the Groen River mouth to the Spoeg River mouth is a recent and valuable addition to Namaqua Park and is still being developed. More formal camp sites and ablution facilities will be established, but camping is allowed, in the meantime. There are 5 camping areas available along the coastline, with the only available facilities being braai areas.