Best Places to Visit in Northern Cape | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Northern Cape Travel Guide
Quick overview of Northern Cape with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to the Northern Cape, a province located in the vast and diverse country of South Africa. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife, the Northern Cape offers a truly unforgettable travel experience. As the largest province in South Africa, it is home to a variety of natural wonders, including the iconic Augrabies Falls, the stunning red dunes of the Kalahari Desert, and the awe-inspiring Namaqualand flower fields. With its warm climate, star-filled skies, and friendly locals, the Northern Cape is a destination that promises adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature. Whether you're exploring the ancient rock art sites, embarking on a thrilling safari, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the vast open spaces, the Northern Cape is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
Northern Cape Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Northern Cape videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Northern Cape in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Northern Cape Trip
Prepare for your Northern Cape trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Best Places To Visit in Northern Cape
1. Kimberley : Kimberley is the capital city of the Northern Cape and is known for its rich history and diamond mining heritage. Visitors can explore the Big Hole, a massive open-pit diamond mine, and the Kimberley Mine Museum to learn about the city's diamond industry. The city also has a number of museums, art galleries, and cultural attractions.
2. Upington : Upington is a charming town located on the banks of the Orange River. It is known for its beautiful vineyards, fruit orchards, and the Kalahari Desert. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, river cruises, and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
3. Springbok : Springbok is a small town located in the heart of the Namaqualand region. It is known for its stunning wildflower displays during the spring months. Visitors can also explore the town's historic buildings, museums, and art galleries.
4. Augrabies Falls : Augrabies Falls is a national park located on the Orange River. It is home to the Augrabies Falls, a stunning waterfall that drops 56 meters into a gorge. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and game viewing in the park.
5. Kakamas : Kakamas is a small town located on the banks of the Orange River. It is known for its beautiful vineyards and fruit orchards. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, river cruises, and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
6. Calvinia : Calvinia is a small town located in the Hantam region of the Northern Cape. It is known for its beautiful wildflowers, historic buildings, and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
7. Pofadder : Pofadder is a small town located in the heart of the Northern Cape. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Pofadder Pass and the Orange River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and game viewing in the area.
8. Sutherland : Sutherland is a small town located in the Karoo region of the Northern Cape. It is known for its clear skies and is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory. Visitors can enjoy stargazing, hiking, and exploring the town's historic buildings.
9. De Aar : De Aar is a small town located in the heart of the Northern Cape. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Karoo Desert and the Doornberg Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and game viewing in the area.
10. Carnarvon : Carnarvon is a small town located in the Karoo region of the Northern Cape. It is known for its clear skies and is home to the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope. Visitors can enjoy stargazing, hiking, and exploring the town's historic buildings.
Hotels Map Of Northern Cape
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Northern Cape.
Tours And Activities In Northern Cape
Check out these Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Northern Cape. Read real reviews and highlights.
Food & Drinks To Try In Northern Cape
1. Biltong: A popular South African snack, biltong is dried and cured meat, typically made from beef or game meats. It is seasoned with various spices and can be enjoyed as a snack or added to dishes for extra flavor.
2. Boerewors: A traditional South African sausage, boerewors is made from a mixture of beef, pork, and spices. It is often cooked on a braai (barbecue) and served with a side of chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish) and pap (a maize porridge).
3. Potjiekos: This is a traditional South African stew that is cooked slowly in a cast-iron pot over an open fire. It typically contains a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices, and is a popular dish for social gatherings and outdoor events.
4. Rooibos tea: Originating from the Cederberg region of the Northern Cape, rooibos tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea that is known for its health benefits and unique flavor. It is often enjoyed with a dash of milk or honey.
5. Kalahari truffles: Also known as desert truffles, these edible fungi are found in the Kalahari Desert region of the Northern Cape. They have a nutty and earthy flavor and are often used in soups, stews, or as a topping for salads.
6. Karoo lamb: The Northern Cape is known for its high-quality lamb, particularly from the Karoo region. Karoo lamb is known for its tender and flavorful meat, which is often enjoyed as a roast or in traditional South African dishes like bobotie (a spiced minced meat dish).
7. Kalahari melons: These melons are native to the Kalahari Desert and have a sweet and juicy flesh. They are often used in salads, desserts, or enjoyed on their own as a refreshing snack.
8. Karoo venison: The Northern Cape is also known for its game meats, including venison from animals such as springbok, kudu, or ostrich. Karoo venison is lean and flavorful, and is often enjoyed as steaks, biltong, or in stews.
9. Rooibos-infused gin: In recent years, rooibos-infused gin has gained popularity in South Africa. This unique gin is made by infusing rooibos tea with botanicals, resulting in a distinct flavor profile that is both refreshing and aromatic.
10. Witblits: Witblits is a traditional South African spirit that is similar to moonshine. It is made from distilled fruits, such as grapes or peaches, and has a high alcohol content. It is often enjoyed as a shot or used in cocktails.
Best Time To Visit Northern Cape
The best time to visit the Northern Cape in South Africa is during the spring and autumn months, which are September to November and March to May respectively. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the wildflowers in the region are in full bloom during spring, creating a colorful and picturesque landscape. However, it is important to note that the Northern Cape can experience extreme temperatures during the summer months of December to February, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during this time if you are not comfortable with hot weather. Similarly, the winter months of June to August can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. Overall, the best time to visit the Northern Cape is during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
Flight Calendar For Northern Cape
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Northern Cape.
Transportation To Northern Cape
There are several transportation options to Northern Cape, South Africa.
1. Air Travel: The Northern Cape has several airports, including Kimberley Airport and Upington Airport, which offer domestic flights from major cities in South Africa. You can book a flight to one of these airports and then use local transportation to reach your destination within the Northern Cape.
2. Road Travel: The Northern Cape is well-connected by road networks. You can drive to the region using your own vehicle or rent a car from major cities in South Africa. The N1 and N12 highways are the main routes that connect the Northern Cape to other provinces.
3. Bus Travel: Several bus companies operate routes to the Northern Cape from major cities in South Africa. Companies like Intercape and Greyhound offer comfortable and affordable bus services to various destinations within the province.
4. Train Travel: The Shosholoza Meyl train service operates routes to Kimberley and Upington in the Northern Cape. This is a scenic and leisurely way to travel, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the region.
5. Taxi Services: Local taxi services are available within the Northern Cape, which can be used for shorter distances or to reach specific destinations within the province.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options before planning your trip to the Northern Cape, South Africa.