South Africa Northern Cape

Embark on the 08-day Northern Cape trip, an unforgettable journey through South Africa’s captivating landscapes and rich heritage. Start in Kimberley, where the diamond-studded history and the iconic Big Hole set the stage for your adventure. Travel through the wild beauty of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, spotting majestic wildlife and the red Kalahari Desert, then visit spectacular waterfalls of Augrabies. Wander through the vibrant floral displays of Namaqualand near Springbok. Learn about the heritage of San people while also enjoying the tranquility of these deserted lands. This itinerary is perfect for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those seeking to discover the beauties of South Africa off the beaten path. The program includes accommodation at small lodges, with comfort and charm. We can tailor this itinerary to suit your plans by changing the length of the trip or the order of activities.

09 Days – From £3,400 per person

*equivalent in USD, EUR accepted

Itinerary: Kimberley, Magersfontein, Augrabies Falls, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Namaqualand

Included

Price is per person, based on two people sharing in a double/twin room
Accommodation with breakfast
Full Board at the safari lodge
All the Game Drives with a Professional Guide
All the excursions mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers by car on a private basis
Entrance & guiding fees to all the mentioned National Parks and Sites
All mandatory local taxes

Excluded

Visa, where applicable
International Flights (See Flights to South Africa)
Domestic Flights
Personal Expenses
Additional Drinks
Insurance
Tips & Gratuities
Meals not mentioned in the description.

Flights

International flights are not included in the package price. We give you the freedom to book the flights yourself, use miles and choose your preferred airline, and if you are stuck we can help you find the right connections. Return flights to South Africa start from £800 per person, depending on the connections and time of the year. Fly to to Johannesburg (JNB) and then catch a domestic flight to Kimberley (KIM).

How to Book

Send us an email to check availability, discuss your preferences and get a quote.

This is a sample itinerary and prices are correct at the time of writing. We can tailor it to suit your plans by changing the length of the trip or the order of activities. More days can be added. Other hotels can be chosen, according to your liking. You can also combine this trip with other sights in South Africa. For more travel inspiration check our South Africa Itineraries.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Northern Cape is during South Africa’s winter and early spring, from May to September. This period offers mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. The best time to visit Namaqualand’s vibrant and picturesque landscape of blooming flowers is from August to September. Additionally, it’s an excellent time for wildlife viewing in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

To avoid unpleasant weather surprises, we recommend to check our South Africa Weather Guide to plan your trip in the right season. Click on the month you want to travel in and see the tours which are best for each month of the year.

Day 1 - Arrival in Kimberley

Take a morning flight from Johannesbourg to Kimberley, a small town, well-known for its rich diamond mining history. Start your journey in Kimberley by visiting the Big Hole and its museum. This is the largest hand-dug excavation in the world. At lunch enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries near the Big Hole, where you can savour traditional South African cuisine. Spend your afternoon at the McGregor Museum, which houses extensive collections on the natural and cultural history of the region. Explore exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and natural history to gain insight into Kimberley’s past and present. Overnight at Oleander Guest House.

Day 2 - Magersfontein Battlefield

Today visit the Magersfontein Battlefield, located about 30 km south of Kimberley. Learn about the historic Battle of Magersfontein, a significant conflict during the Anglo-Boer War, through guided tours and informative exhibits. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots near Magersfontein Battlefield or head back into Kimberley to dine at a local restaurant. After lunch take a leisurely stroll through Kimberley’s city centre, exploring historic buildings, monuments, and street art. Visit local shops and craft markets to pick up souvenirs, artworks, or locally made products. Wrap up your tour with a relaxing dinner at one of Kimberley’s restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious cuisine. Overnight at Oleander Guest House.

Day 3 - Augrabies Falls

After breakfast transfer (5 hours 15 min) to Kakamas, the gateway to Augrabies Falls. After refreshing, walk to the powerful Augrabies Falls, one of the largest in the world. ‘Aukoerebis’ means ‘place of great noise’ by the local Khoi-tribe. The Orange River, South Africa’s longest river, forms a spectacular 60-meters high waterfall. The river carries 400 million liters of water per second and the sound is deafening. The falls are located in the largest granite gorge in the world which is 240 m deep and 18 km long. Follow several wooden paths that lead to lookouts with spectacular views, enjoying the sounds of the falls. Make sure to pack some water, sunscreen. Overnight at Augrabies Falls Lodge and Camp.

Day 4 - Augrabies National Park

After an early breakfast enjoy a sunrise 4×4 guided drive in the Augrabies Falls National Park for stunning views and wildlife sightings. Thanks to the extreme ecosystem you can find unique animals and plants here. The park is home to various species including klipspringers, giraffes, zebras, and different antelopes. In the afternoon, visit San people heritage sites, such as the Moon Rock and Echo Corner. Here, you’ll discover ancient rock engravings and paintings that offer a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and daily life of the San people, the region’s original inhabitants. Learn about the hunting techniques, medicinal plant use, and the significance of these sacred sites in San culture. Overnight at Augrabies Falls Lodge and Camp.

Day 5 - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (3,5 hours), situated at the border with Botswana. The park will be accessed through Twee Rivieren gate, the main access to the park on the South African side. Relax and unwind after the long drive, then visit the park for an afternoon game drive. As you traverse the red dunes and acacia-studded plains, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the Kalahari’s famous predators, including the powerful black-maned Kalahari lions, agile cheetahs, and elusive leopards. You’ll also encounter the striking gemsbok (oryx) with their long, straight horns and distinctive markings, as well as herds of springbok and other antelopes. In the evening soak in the vast and arid beauty of the Kalahari Desert, looking at a sky full of stars. Overnight at Kgalagadi Lifestyle Lodge.

Day 6 - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

In the morning, after a quick breakfast make your way to the park for a guided morning drive for another chance to spot more wildlife and a wide range of bird species including raptors, vultures, and colourful desert birds. Visit the Auchterlonie museum to see how the San people lived in the region many years ago. Have an afternoon picnic where you can relax near the museum, under the shade of quiver trees while taking in the vast, open vistas. In the afternoon enjoy another game ride in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Return to your lodge for dinner. Overnight at Kgalagadi Lifestyle Lodge.

Day 7 - Return to Kakamas

After breakfast, return to Kakamas, leaving behind the red dunes and unique wildlife of the Kalahari (3,5 hours). As you travel south, you’ll pass through the rugged, arid landscape of the Northern Cape, with its wide-open spaces and endless horizons. Upon your arrival in Kakamas, envoy the vineyards and orchards – a refreshing contrast to the arid Kgalagadi. Enjoy a late lunch at one of the local eateries, where you can sample fresh produce from the region. Visit the historical waterwheels along the river, which are a testament to the town’s agricultural heritage. Settle in for the night at your accommodation in Kakamas, reflecting on the incredible journey from the wild landscapes of the Kgalagadi to the fertile plains of the Orange River Valley. Overnight at Kakamas Hotel.

Day 7 - Namaqualand

Today you will transfer to Namaqualand (2,5 hours), a breathtaking region of the Northern Cape, famous for its vibrant wildflower displays. Traveling on the edge of the Kalahari Desert and its semi-arid landscape, you will spot unique flora such as camel thorn trees and quiver trees, dotting one of the most unique environments on the continent. Some of the trees are over 200 years old. The resilient flora has adapted to thrive in the harsh desert conditions. You can make a short stop in the small town of Poffader for some refreshments. As you transition from the arid desert to the more lush, flower-filled plains, enjoy the kaleidoscope of colors. Overnight at Naries Namakwa Retreat.

Day 8 - Namaqualand National Park

During the vibrant spring months of August and September, Namaqualand transforms into an extraordinary natural spectacle, becoming one of South Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. After breakfast, visit the Namaqualand National Park to experience the beauty of this unique floral kingdom up close through a guided tour. Explore the flower route of the desert transformed into a lively blooming carpet. In the afternoon learn about the cultural heritage of the Nama people, who have a deep connection to this arid landscape by visiting the local communities to discover their traditions, crafts, and cuisine. Overnight at Naries Namakwa Retreat.

Day 09 - Transfer to Cape Town

Today you will transfer to the Cape Town (5,5 hours) on a scenic drive where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged coastline, and pristine beaches. Stop at viewpoints along the way to soak in the beauty of the coastal landscape. Spend a few days at leisure in the marvelous Cape Town, or explore all this city has to offer, from the magnificent views, to a multicultural cuisine and unique sites such as Robben Island, Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Boulders Beach, the nearby wine towns and the splendid Cape of Good Hope. Alternatively, explore other regions of South Africa, from the Garden Route of the safari parks.

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