Namaqua National Park, Nature reserve in Northern Cape, South Africa.
Namaqua National Park is a protected area in the semi-arid landscape of the Northern Cape province along the Atlantic coast. The terrain is marked by granite outcrops and supports dense stands of succulents alongside thousands of wildflower species.
The protected area began in 1993 as the Skilpad Nature Reserve and grew through gradual land acquisitions to reach its present size. It received national park status in 1999.
The region takes its name from the Khoikhoi herders who lived here for centuries. Visitors today can experience a landscape shaped by seasonal wildflower displays and the enduring connection between local communities and this arid terrain.
The park is reached from Cape Town by several hours of driving northward on the N7 road. On-site accommodation is limited to a small camp with a few cabins, so booking ahead is wise.
The area holds the world's highest concentration of succulent plants with over one thousand flower species found nowhere else on Earth. This botanical rarity makes it a significant location for global science and conservation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
