Escape to the land of contrasts, where the rigorous climate has created a myriad of life forms superbly adapted to their specific habitat.
Fields of flowers, star studded nights, quiver trees, enormous granite outcrops and the icy Atlantic are but a few wonders that await the visitor to what is truly the Creators playground.
During early August and September, seemingly overnight, the dusty valleys of Namaqualand are transformed into a wonderland, carpeted with wildflowers.
With its winter rainfall, Namaqualand is home to the richest bulb flora of any arid region in the world and more than a 1 000 of its estimated 3 500 plant species are found nowhere else on earth.
It conserves the world's richest succulent flora and is home to the world's smallest tortoise, the Namaqua Speckled Padloper.
Amphibians and reptiles are well represented, with a number of endemic species.
The mammal species that have adapted to these harsh conditions include klipspringer, aardvark, baboon, steenbok, duiker, porcupine, black-backed jackal and leopard.
Birds are typical of the dry arid western regions of the country. Look out for Black Harriers.
Important Notice 1. Accommodation rates do not include
Conservation Fees which are payable at the entrance gates.
2. Please ensure that you are familiar with the
Rules & Regulations of National Parks before making a booking.
Rooms:
Skilpad Rest Camp
* It provides 4 chalets, each with 2 single beds in the bedroom and a ¾-sleeper couch (suitable for 1 adult or 2 children) in the open plan living room / kitchen.
* A dining area is available on the enclosed veranda and an indoor fireplace and an outside braai area is also provided.
* The units come equipped with ceiling fans and 220V electricity. One unit (#3) has been adapted for use by guests with challenged mobility. The kitchen is fully equipped with crockery and cutlery, cooking utensils, glassware, a 4-plate stove, microwave, fridge / freezer combo, kettle and toaster.
Chalet (CH2/4)
- 1 bedroom with 2 single beds
- 220V Electricity
- 3/4 Sleeper Couch suitable for 1adult / 2 Children
- Airconditioned bedroom
- Ceiling Fan
- Enclosed veranda with dining area
- Indoor fireplace, braai area outside
- Limited road network for sedan vehicles
- No shop, restaurant or filling station in Park
- Open plan lounge / kitchen area
- Provide own firewood!
- Wc and shower
Activities:
Adventure and Outdoor:
* Caracal Ecotrail (4x4 only)
* Circular drive with viewpoints during the spring flowering season.
* Several short nature trails.
* Picnic sites.
* A seasonal visitor information centre.
How to get there:
The topography is characterized by granite outcrops with large round or flat exposed rock separated by sandy alluvial valleys.
It is situated some 495 km from Cape Town off the N7 route to Namibia, and 67km from the town of Springbok in the north.
The nearest town is Kamieskroon, which is some 22 km from the reserve and park offices.
Gate Hours: 08:00 to 17:00.
At present the Park has only a limited road network available to sedan vehicles.
No shop, restaurant or fuel is available in Namaqua National Park and guests must take along their own firewood.
Health & Climate:
Namaqualand falls within the winter rainfall region of South Africa.
The highest rainfall period is between June to August.
Average winter temperatures vary between 7 degrees and 19 degrees Celsius, while summer temperatures vary between 20 degrees and 42 degrees Celsius.
Take Note
* Pets are not allowed in a National Park.
* Vehicle fuel is available in the nearby town Springbok (87km away)- not in the park itself.
* It is an offence to pick flowers or to remove plants or any other material from the park.
* There are limited toilet facilities in the park.
* Vehicle repairs, post office and police services are available at Kamieskroon. Medical services only in Springbok, which is 67 km away.
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