Bumper Crop of Namaqualand Spring Flowers Expected in 2012

by edstorm

The Namaqualand valley, famous for it's annual burst of incredible flowers, is expected to put on an especially big show this year.

Each year between August and October one of the most extraordinary natural spectacles occurs. The semi-desert region of the West Coast, known for its relentless heat, unforgiving wind and low rainfall, explodes into a riot of colour synonymous with the flamboyant inner-city festivals of Rio or New Orleans.

A Chromatic Display

Over 4000 different species of spring flower await the cessation of the winter rains before bursting into bloom. Carpets of dazzling orange, amber, pink, yellow, gold and startling white stretch for as far as the eye can see in an organic display comparable to the Canadian Fall or the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival!

Prolonged Flower Season Driven by Consistent Rains

This year, the consistently heavy rainfall has already played its part, with those in the know claiming a prolonged bumper crop of Namaqualand Daisies. As we shift gears into spring, the coastal route between Cape Town and Alexander Bay is already showing signs of things to come!


Traditionally, the very best botanical sightings occur approximately five hours drive north- west of Cape Town. Visitors are encouraged to wing their way to the ‘fairest Cape in all the world’, hop into their Cape Town airport car hire and head for the N7 highway.

Namaqualand Colours
Namaqualand Colours

Best Spring Flower Destinations

To get deep into the fragrant midst of South Africa’s foremost floristic display, we recommend you make for any one of these fascinating destinations:

  • Kamieskroon
  • Langebaan
  • Clanwilliam
  • Garies
  • Springbok
  • Port Nolloth

A selection of national parks and nature reserves await - Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve, West Coast National Park, Nieuwoudtville Flower Reserve, Goegap Nature Reserve and Richtersveld National Park - where you can hike, cycle or even horse ride amongst the flowers.

Excellent Facilities

There’s plenty of accommodation to choose from en route which ranges from comfortable bed and breakfasts, top end guest houses to affordable star graded hotels. Cost effective Cape Town car hire is your best bet as you’ll want freedom of movement to explore the region and all its gems at your own, leisurely pace.

West Coast Attractions

Although the fields of vibrantly coloured Namaqualand daisies are obviously the main attraction, the quaint West Coast fishing villages with their long, white sandy beaches, prolific bird life and unique sea food restaurants are a delight unto themselves.

Take the time to explore the culture and historical significance of this remote and hauntingly beautiful area; you won’t be disappointed.

Sourcing Car Rental Cape Town

Reeds Car Rental is an established car hire company with a presence at Cape Town International Airport. To find out more about the car hire fleet, current rental rates and to make an enquiry online, visit their website today.

Updated: 08/02/2012, edstorm
 
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AngelaJohnson on 04/16/2013

I love seeing a field of wildflowers as I'm out driving.

wrapitup4me on 08/22/2012

I'd love to see some photos of the flowering fields and the fishing village you write about - are you going to be there?

dustytoes on 08/01/2012

What a spectacular sight this must be! I've never heard of the Namaqualand Daisies.

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