Augrabies Falls National Park
Augrabies Falls National Park is a protected area located in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, approximately 120 km west of Upington. The park is named after the Augrabies Falls, which is the main attraction and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in South Africa. The waterfall is formed by the Orange River, which flows through a narrow gorge and drops 56 meters into a pool below.
Apart from the falls, the park is also known for its rugged landscapes, desert wildlife, and geological formations. The park covers an area of 820 km² and is home to several plant and animal species, including baboons, klipspringer, and dassies (rock hyrax).
Visitors to Augrabies Falls National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, game drives, and photography. There are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape, including the Dassie and Moon Rock trails. Game drives are also popular, and visitors can spot wildlife such as springbok, gemsbok, and giraffe.
In terms of accommodation, there are several options available within the park, including chalets, camping sites, and a luxury guest house. The Augrabies Falls Rest Camp is the main accommodation facility and offers a range of chalets and camping sites, as well as a swimming pool, restaurant, and convenience store.
Overall, Augrabies Falls National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse oneself in the rugged and scenic landscapes of the Northern Cape.
Accomodation near Augrabies Falls
There are several options for accommodation near Augrabies Falls, including:
- Augrabies Falls Lodge and Camp: This lodge offers both luxury chalets and camping sites. It is located inside the Augrabies Falls National Park and offers stunning views of the falls.
- Augrabies Valle Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located just 2 km from the Augrabies Falls National Park entrance. It offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool.
- Daberas Guest Farm: This guest farm is located about 30 km from Augrabies Falls and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Kalahari. Accommodation options include self-catering chalets and camping sites.
- Augrabies Backpackers: This budget-friendly hostel is located in Kakamas, about 45 km from Augrabies Falls. It offers dormitory-style accommodation and a communal kitchen.
- Augrabies Restcamp: This campsite is located inside the Augrabies Falls National Park and offers basic camping facilities, as well as self-catering chalets.
These are just a few of the accommodation options near Augrabies Falls. It’s best to book well in advance, especially during peak season.