Augrabies Falls National Park

The word Augrabies is derived from the Khoi word meaning place of great noise; these falls are the sixth larges in the world. This is also were the Orange River is at its most powerful.

Few sights are as awesome or a sound as deafening as water thundering down the 56m Augrabies Waterfall when the Orange River is in full flood.

When going to Augrabies do expect hot summers and cold nights during winter. Expect to get wet during January to April as this is the rainy season. But the best time to visit will be during March to October because this is the most pleasant months in the park.

The Augrabies Falls National Park is only an hour from Upington and covers an area of 820 sq km and stretches along the Orange River. The flora is suited to the arid desert climate. The Kokerboom or Quiver Tree grows here. They are silent sentinels in a strangely unique environment where only those that are able to adapt ultimately survive. They are succulents and can store huge amounts of water in their stems and so survive long periods of drought. The park includes a game reserve with rhinos as the main attraction. The 88 000 hectares on both the northern and southern sides of the Orange River provide sanctuary to a diversity of species, from the very smallest succulents, birds and reptiles to springbok, gemsbok and the endangered black Rhino.

What to do in the park

• If hiking is your thing the Klipspringer hiking trail will definitely appeal to you. This is a three day trail which will take you into the arid, rocky landscapes where you will see breathtaking landscapes of the river and its surrounds. Two huts with bunks, toilets and braai (barbecue) facilities are provided.
• Or you could go on the Black Rhino adventure that includes a boat trip down the Orange River.
• Then you can also go on a Night Game Drive where you will see nocturnal species, all under the guidance and supervision of a fully qualified guide and game tracker.
• The Gariep 3-in-1 Route is for the more active visitor. This day trip includes adventures such as mountain biking, canoeing down a section of the Orange River and a short hike through the game reserve.

Accommodation

The rest camp provides fully equipped, air-conditioned chalets with four beds, toilet and kitchenette. Camping facilities are available in a well shaded caravan park

Or you could stay in the Waterwiel Lodge or the Augrabies Falls Hotel