namaqualand daisies tours

For unadulterated luxury and adventure, opt for an  exquisite  tour of Namaqualand and its surrounding flower regions including the unspoilt southern parts of the West Coast, the Cederberg and Clanwilliam and the breathtaking Swartland. Our guides are plant enthusiasts and have been living here their entire lives. They will spoil you and treat you to the best that Namaqualand has to offer, anytime during the season.

All our tour depart and return to Cape Town and will be conducted in groups from 8 to 39. Various packages ranging from 4, 5 and 6-day tours are available as per the dates below.

Our special 4-day flower tours are conducted exclusively at the beginning and end of our season. Due to the diverse and dynamic nature of our season flowers, an abundance is not a given on these tour. But in a good year, you might just get lucky. However, the scenery and routes that we can travel on our busses allow access to places less travelled to, that ensure an amazing experience.

All flower tours depart and return to Cape Town.

Special 4 Day Tours

R10 100  Per Person Sharing or R12 300   Single Occupancy

28 - 31 July 2025 (Monday - Thursday)

16 - 19 September 2025 (Tuesday - Friday)

R11 600  Per Person Sharing or R13 900  Single Occupancy

1 - 4 August (Friday - Monday) 

5 - 8 August (Tuesday - Friday)

12 - 15 September (Friday - Monday)

R14 500  Per Person Sharing or R17 400  Single Occupancy

9 - 13 August (Saturday - Wednesday)

14 - 18 August (Thursday - Monday) 

26 - 30 August (Tuesday - Saturday)

6 - 10 September (Saturday - Wednesday

R17 400  Per Person Sharing or R20 000  Single Occupancy

20 - 25 August (Wednesday - Monday) 

31 August - 5 September (Sunday - Friday)

Price will be confirmed

(depending on your choice of driving along or accompanying us in our bus)

This year we have a new venture along with our flower tours. We now offer day tours together with our groups to various destinations through-out Namaqualand and the surrounding flower regions. These trips depend on the weather and the availability of flowers to ensure the best possible experience.

You now have the opportunity to join us either in your own vehicle or in ours to accompany us for the day to see the flowers, listen to the local history, sit back, relax and enjoy the flowers to the fullest.  Spend a spectacular day with our well trained and passionate guides and share in the beauty of Namaqualand.

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INCLUDES/EXCLUDES

Including in the Trip price

Excluding in the Trip price

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• GOEGAAP NATURE RESERVE

DETAILED ITINERARY

  8 day namaqualand flower tour / namakwaland blomme toer..

Day 1 - Johannesburg - Northern Province - Upington - Kakamas - Namaqualand

  8 Day Namaqualand Flower Tour Namakwaland Blomme Toer

Y our driver/guide will collect you from Johannesburg/ Pretoria and departure time is 05h00.

You travel through the Northern Cape towards the Orange River (Gariep River) region, via the towns of Vryburg, Upington, and Kakamas where you overnight.

Accommodation in Kakamas

Bed / Breakfast / Dinner

Distance traveled : 800 km

Day 2 - Kakamas - Springbok - Namaqualand - Namakwaland

C ontinue to Springbok and visit the Augrabies Falls National Park. Few sights are as awesome or a sound as deafening as water thundering down the 150 deep & 56 meter wide Augrabies Waterfall when the Orange River is in a full flood. The Khoi (Bushman) people called it “Aukoerebis”, or place of Great Noise, as this powerful flow of water is unleashed from rocky surroundings characterized by the 18 km abyss of the Orange River Gorge.

Depart for Springbok , Namaqualand’s Wild Flower Capital. Springbok lies in a deep low plain between rugged mountains, about 600 km north of Cape Town.

It is the commercial and cultural center of Namaqualand

Copper was discovered on the farm Melkboschkuil in 1850 and a mine was established. The mine became the first commercial mine in South Africa, but was worked out by 1888.

In 1863 the town was mapped out and built around the copper mining industry.

Namaqualand is probably the world’s most awe inspiring floral kingdom . It is believed that “You have not seen any flowers until you have experienced the splendour of Namaqualand in full flower”. Each year in spring (July – September), Namaqualand hosts the most spectacular show on earth.

Situated in what is probably the most arid part of South Africa, the stark contrast between winter and spring can nowhere be more dramatic than in this part of the world.

A multi-coloured wildflower carpet grows almost overnight, enticing thousands of people to visit the area and share in the bounty of Mother Nature. One of the special sites to visit is the Goegap Nature Reserve.

We will spend part of the day at the Namaqualand National Park near Kammieskroon. A circular drive and a few short walking trails let you experience the incredible floral diversity of the area

Accommodation in Springbok area (Depends on availability) /Guesthouse

Bed / Breakfast / Dinner basis

Distance travelled 350 km

Day 3 - Namakwaland - Namaqualand - Lambertsbay

Springbok to lambertsbay via garies, kamieskroon, and skilpad nature reserve.

After breakfast in Springbok , depart and continue our  journey towards Clanwilliam.

We will travel through the town of Garies, known for its beautiful wildflowers (during the blooming season).

Enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way to Kamieskroon, another area famous for its spring flower displays.

We will visit Skilpad Nature Reserve, located near Kamieskroon and take a detour and explore the reserve. Skilpad Nature Reserve is known for its stunning wildflowers and offers walking trails where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

After visiting Skilpad Nature Reserve, continue your journey to Lambertsbay.

Arrive in Lambertsbay and check into your accommodation.

Overnight stay in Lamberstbay.

We will incorporate Skilpad Nature Reserve into our itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to explore its unique flora and experience the beauty of the Namaqualand region.

Day 4 - Cederberg - Veldrif - Lambertsbay - West Coast

Lambertsbay to west coast and return to lambertsbay.

After breakfast, depart from Lambertsbay and head towards the West Coast. Visit Paternoster, known for its birdlife and beautiful beaches.

Explore Bokkom Laan, a quaint street famous for its dried fish (bokkoms) and local delicacies.

Continue to Veldrif, a charming coastal town situated on the banks of the Berg River.

Visit Elands Bay, a popular surfing spot known for its scenic beauty.

Explore Paternoster, a picturesque fishing village with whitewashed cottages.

Return to Lambertsbay in the late afternoon.

Overnight stay in Lambertsbay.

Please note that the distances and travel times may vary depending on the specific routes taken and any additional stops you choose to make along the way. It's always a good idea to plan our day accordingly and allow for flexibility in your schedule to fully enjoy the attractions and scenery along the West Coast.

Day 5 - Namakwaland - Namaqualand - Lambertsbay

Lambertsbay Clanwilliam to Biedouw Valley and Wuppertal, return to Lambertsbay

After breakfast, we depart from Lambertsbay and head towards Biedouw Valley.

Explore the scenic Biedouw Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and wildflower displays (during the blooming season).

Take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and enjoy the serenity of the valley. Continue to Wuppertal, a historic mission village nestled in the Cederberg Mountains. Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Wuppertal.

Please note that the availability and blooming seasons of flowers in Biedouw Valley may vary each year, so it's advisable to check for updates and plan our  visit accordingly. Additionally, the specific attractions and activities in Wuppertal may vary, but you can explore the village and learn about its unique history and culture.

Day 6 - Lambertsbay - Nieuwoudtsville - Calvinia

Lambertsbay to calvinia via vredendal, vanrhynsdorp, nieuwoudtville, and loeriesfontein.

Depart from Lambertsbay after breakfast. Travel through Vredendal and Vanrhynsdorp, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way

Visit Nieuwoudtville, known for its stunning wildflower displays (during the blooming season) and the Nieuwoudtville Waterfall. Explore Loeriesfontein, a small town with a rich history and interesting attractions.

Continue our  journey through the Hantam Mountains towards Calvinia.

Overnight stay in Calvinia.

Bed / Breakfast / Dinner   basis

Please note that the specific attractions and activities in each town may vary, but we can explore the natural beauty and historical sites in the region as you travel from Clanwilliam to Calvinia. Enjoy the scenic landscapes and the unique charm of each place you visit along the way.

Day 7 - Nieuwoudtville - Britstown - Kimberley

Calvinia to kimberley.

After breakfast, depart from Calvinia and make our way to Kimberley. En route, you will have the opportunity to visit Orania, a small town known for its Afrikaner cultural preservation. Explore the town and learn about its unique history and community.

Continue our  journey to Kimberley, the capital city of the Northern Cape Province.

Overnight stay in Kimberley.

In Kimberley , we can explore the city's rich diamond mining history, visit museums, and learn about its cultural heritage

Day 8 - Kimberley - Johannesburg

Kimberley to johannesburg and boksburg.

After breakfast, depart from Kimberley and begin our  journey back to Johannesburg. Enjoy the scenic drive as we make our way to Johannesburg.

Upon reaching Johannesburg, your driver/guide will drop you off at your desired location. The last drop-off will be in Boksburg, marking the end of your Namaqualand tour.

Congratulations on completing your wonderful Namaqualand tour! I hope you had a memorable experience exploring the beautiful landscapes, wildflowers, and cultural highlights of the region. If you have any further questions or need assistance with anything else, feel free to ask. Safe travels!

Return home from a wonderful Namaqualand Flower Tour and arrive late afternoon In Johannesburg

Distance travelled 500 km

8 Day Namaqualand Flower Tour - 8 dag Namakwaland Blomme Toer

PLACES OF INTEREST

Nieuwoudtville.

Nieuwoudtville: Known as the place of hidden treasures, Nieuwoudtville boasts the biggest variety of indigenous bulbous plants (500,000) in the world. Other sights include the Glacial Rock Striations which date back 280 million years; the 100m high Nieuwoudtville Falls on the Doring River; and the quiver tree forest, which is the largest and southernmost colony of Aloe dichotoma.

Skilpad Wild Flower reserve

Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve: Situated in a mountainous area about 25km from Kamieskroon, Skilpad incorporates a shrubland and abandoned wheatlands.

It has recently been incorporated into the Namaqua National Park and should not be missed.

Knersvlakte

Knersvlakte: This wasteland is home to the richest succulent populations on earth.

S pringbok: Enjoy the amazing display of flowers and rock formations, and discover the interesting copper mine history of Springbok.

Ramskop Wild Flower Garden

Ramskop Wild Flower Garden: Situated near Clanwilliam in the Western Cape, Ramskop is one of the best displays of wild flowers in South Africa.

Postberg Nature Reserve

P ostberg Nature Reserve: Set within the West Coast National Park, the reserve boasts the greatest variety of birds, game, and Sandveld flowers in the Western Cape

Goegap nature Reserve

Go egap Nature Reserve is a 12,000 ha wildflower reserve outside of Springbok where you can pack a picnic, visit the Hester Malan Wild Flower Garden, and drive a scenic 17km route.

Guests on the 7-day tour: Proceed to Cape Town Airport, where you board your two hours flight to Johannesburg, arriving in Johannesburg the same day. We thank you for a wonderful tour with us!

Dining Car on Premier Classe train

Bokkeveld daisies

This tour is a bus-only tour. The size of the group will determine the bus we take. We keep our transport in the luxury category. The advantage of a smaller group is that with a smaller bus we can go into more unique areas.

The alternative to this tour is the NLW6G: WEST COAST & NAMAQUALAND   tour   (GP-GP 6 days) -- that is the tour which starts and ends in Johannesburg, or the NLW6C: WEST COAST & NAMAQUALAND   tour   (CT-CT 6 days) -- that is the tour which starts and ends in Cape Town

This tour of 8 (eight) days covers the Matsikamma, the real Namaqualand , the 'boland' of the Namaqualand, Kalahari, and through the Northern Cape, and also the HANTAM !.

Here is a typical itinerary of the tour:

Day 1 : Northern Cape Kalahari and wine region

We depart from Gauteng at 05:00. We travel through the Northern Cape towards the Orange River (Gariep River) region, via the towns of Vryburg, Kuruman, Upington , Keimoes, and Kakamas , where we spend our first night.

This tour is based on a bed and breakfast basis. Lunches, Dinners and drinks are for your own account.

Augrabies Waterfall

Day 2 : Augrabies, Springbok

We depart after breakfast, to the Augrabies National Park , to view close-up the granite-confined waters of the Gariep (Orange) River, where it cascades over the several falls, and continues down to the Atlantic Ocean. Augrabies means 'The place of great noise' and it lies at the heart of the remote and fascinating Augrabies National Park.

We continue our travels and at Pofadder we have a brief comfort stop. We overnight with bed and breakfast in the Springbok / Nababeep area.

Day 3 : Namakwaland, Kamiesberg region, Vredendal

Today we visit the attractive area of Springbok, Okiep, and Nababeep, walking amongst and getting close-up to the flowers, to get those special near photos.

We continue to the areas where the flowers are most beautiful on the day, choosing amongst, for instance Goegap Nature Reserve / Namaqua National Park / Kamiesberg, etc, where fields of flowers await us.

We overnight in the area of Vanrhynsdorp / Vredendal , on Bed and breakfast basis.

Namaqualand flowers: Daisy Ursinia calenduliflora Namaqua parachute daisy / Berg-magrietjie , with Daisy Felicia australis Sambreeltjie

Desert Primrose Grielum humifusum Pietsnotjies , and others, growing wild in Namaqualand

Nieuwoudtville Waterfall

Day 4 : Cedarberg, Clanwilliam, Lambert's Bay area

After a well deserved breakfast, we visit the Clanwilliam area. It is in this region where the much loved Rooibos tea is cultivated. A visit to the Ramskop Nature Garden, is certainly a must.

We continue to the Rooibos tea factory, and also the Veldshoe Factory (vellies), attractions not to be missed. We go say hello to the Atlantic Ocean, travelling to Lambert's Bay area, where we have a late lunch / early dinner, and overnight on bed and breakfast basis in Vredendal area.

Day 5 : Maskam, Nieuwoudville

Today we travel to the Flower Bulb Capital of the world, Nieuwoudtville , where the bulb species grow on the 'Boland of the Namaqualand'. An amazing array of species are found here - some particularly endemic to the region. We visit the 100m deep Nieuwoudtville Waterfall and the Succulent Nursery in Vanrhynsdorp - another day of hunting for the most beautiful areas of wildflowers.

We overnight on one of the farms in the area of Nieuwoudtville, amongst the flowers!

Day 6 : Nieuwoudville, Calvinia

After an interesting night and a morning on the highveld of Namaqualand, we continue to Calvinia , into the Hantam - yet another day of taking in the beauty of this region. Here we hunt for another treasure of unique vistas and wild flowers. We overnight on Bed and breakfast basis.

The Cedarberg Mountains, named after the Cedar Tree which is now threatened in this region.

Day 7 : Hantam, Boesmanland, Gariep

After breakfast, our journey continues through the southern region of the Boesmanland , through Brandvlei, to the Great Gariep, and Olifantshoek. We see the last of the amazing flowers, and take a few photos of rows and rows of community birds' nests , telephone lines, and many quiver trees .

We overnight on Bed and breakfast basis.

Day 8 : We return home with lots of memories and good friends, again travelling through the Upper Northern Cape, back home to Gauteng, the province of Johannesburg and Pretoria, to arrive late afternoon / early evening.

An amazing follow-up tour to consider is the:

The area around the Cape on the south-western tip of Africa is not often explored on regular tours of the country, yet holds many magnificent secrets, ready to be explored on our Around-the-Cape tour.

We venture into the countryside and bring you the exhilaration of unexplored areas -- 'Around the Cape'. Come and enjoy with us the Open and Green, the endless Karoo and the blue seas, really wild open skies, and really deep valleys...

We arrive in Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, by plane at the International Airport, and make our way to the town of Tulbach , where we explore this old town which was partly destroyed by an earthquake , which is a rare natural disaster in South Africa, years ago.

Many interesting small shops in town are eager to welcome you, especially in the street which was reconstructed after the earthquake.

A selection of restaurants stands ready to serve a meal of your choice in the tranquil setting of the Boland .

This tour is based on a bed and breakfast basis. Lunch, Dinner and drinks are for your own account.

We overnight at our Lodge on Bed and Breakfast basis.

Day 2 - Around the Cape tour

We depart Tulbach, heading out to Sutherland.

This is the far-off Karoo dorp with the exceptional privilege of housing SALT, the largest telescope in South Africa , and soon will be hosting the largest on the planet, shared with Australia -- the SKA, square kilometre array telescope.

Here we visit the telescope installation outside of town, later to return for our stargazing into the evening sky, with stories and exploration on our minds, told by one of the astrologically knowledgeable local residents.

Overnight at our Lodge. B B included.

We depart Sutherland for Matjiesfontein , where we explore the wonderful old buildings of yesteryear, with lunch in the Lord Nelson Hotel, or similar.

Matjiesfontein is that beautifully preserved, old-charm train station town on the way between Cape Town and Johannesburg, nestled in the Karoo along the main N1 motorway.

We continue our journey to Prince Albert , which is spread out at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountain range, another of those towns you want to spend a few days in, neat Karoo town with old world charm, now also famous for the TV cook series, Kokkedoor.

Today you have the opportunity to go to Hell and back -- no not literally to the Hell of your conviction, but literally to the far-off settlement of The Hell , in the Gamkaskloof .

It is a 4x4 route, and you will enjoy the scenery and comfortable ride. Down in The Hell is another tale of confined space, but with fertile soil and many stories of the people who settled there and made a living under very difficult circumstances.

Another option is to explore the town of Prince Albert and its surroundings of fruit farming, dairy farming, and many shops, art collections, art to buy, exquisite cuisine, vistas and stories.

We travel either over the Swartberg Pass , or through Meiringspoort , visiting the ostrich industry and the Cango Caves of Oudtshoorn.

There is a magnificent restaurant under the Swartberg mountains (on the other side) waiting to entertain your taste buds with delicious food from the area.

We overnight in the vicinity of Oudtshoorn or the R62 route. B B included.

We continue through the Little Karoo to the southern tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas . We spend the day in the vicinity of Cape Agulhas, exploring the surrounding farms and enjoying the ocean - you might see some whales! You have the rare opportunity to be at the point where the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean meet.

Visit also the Cape Agulhas lighthouse.

We depart Cape Agulhas for Cape Town, travelling through the Overberg , enjoying the many mountains and towns on our way to the Mother City.

We overnight in the vicinity of Stellenbosch. B B included.

We depart Cape Town on the Premier Classe train to Johannesburg, a luxury experience, where you relax and enjoy the scenery, and have three meals, luxuriously set in the Dining car on board the train.

Overnight on the Premier Classe train. All three meals included. Only two guests per compartment, or for single guests: only one per coupe.

We arrive at Johannesburg Park station at approximately 11:00, relaxed and excited for our next tour with Touring South Africa !

Peter and Riana Maas

TOER SUID AFRIKA Reisklub // TOURING SOUTH AFRICA Travel Club.

CELL +27(0)71 330 3174

www.toersuidafrika.com //

email: [email protected]

www.touringsouthafrica.co.za //

email: [email protected]

Another Gem in Namaqualand, is the:

This hiking tour is an easy, catered-for, hiking tour , with a base camp. The hiking is along the West Coast of South Africa, through the Namaqua National Park's coastal region on the Atlantic Ocean.

Bring along your camera and make sure you can take lots of photos - extra batteries are recommended. Cell phone reception might not be possible.

You take your tent and necessary personal gear for the camp, and your day back pack hiking gear, which you will need during your daily excursion along the coast, and return each day late afternoon to base camp.

If you get too tired, you may get onto the donkey cart to take a rest. The donkey cart takes your day gear, so you are not carrying a heavy pack on your back while hiking!

What a way to hike! Isn't it just convenient fun!?

At night time, we spend the evening under the stars, around the camp fire ...Wow!

We depart early by flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town . We meet our bus, as well as our guests joining us in Cape Town, at the airport, and proceed to Darling , where we visit the Wild flower show for the rest of the day.

We overnight in Velddrif, on bed and breakfast basis. Drinks for your own account.

After a good night's rest and a hearty breakfast, we depart in our persuit of the beautiful places with wild flowers , on the West coast area.

In the afternoon, we proceed to Lambert's Bay where we overnight. Dinner, bed and breakfast. Drinks for your own account.

Day 1 Hike (Day 3 Tour)

Arrival at Garies at 12:00 - 13:00

Depart Garies at 14:00 with safari vehicles (included), travelling on dirt roads for about 80km to our camp , where we will return to every night, for the duration of the hiking tour.

We set up our tent(s) and enjoy the wonderful open night skies, around the camp fire.

Day 2 Hike (Day 4 Tour)

After breakfast, we transfer by vehicle(s) to Strandfonteinpunt, where donkey carts join us. We hike to Spoegrivier Caves , where 2000 years old sheep remains were found, on the coast. Hiking 17km.

We return to camp by (safari) vehicle for our second night under the star

Day 3 Hike (Day 5 Tour)

After breakfast, we depart again to Strandfonteinpunt by safari vehicle. We hike from there to Koringkorrel , with the donkey carts joining us. We spend tea time at Bitterriviermond (Bitter river mouth) and keep a lookout for any seal colonies. Day 4 Hike (Day 6 Tour) After breakfast, we transfer by vehicle to Groenriviermond . From there we hike to Kwass se Baai. Donkey carts wait at Kwass to take hikers further to Koringkorrelbaai.

Our last hiking day: After breakfast, we pack up our tents, leave it there, and then we have a choice of hiking: either

1) From Koringkorrel to Kwass se Baai - 6km, or

2) From Koringkorrel to Kwass and return to Koringkorrel

When we return to camp, the remaining part of the camp will be round up.

We then depart back to Garies , by vehicle.

For the tour version of 8 days:

We continue to Vredendal , where we overnight at Tharrakamma, on dinner, bed, and breakfast basis. Drinks for your own account.

We depart to Cape Town, where we visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens . There we enjoy the many different flowers in this Cape Floral Kingdom, the most varied of all the different floral kingdoms of the world.

We bid our guests from Cape Town Goodbye.

We proceed to Cape Town International Airport for our flight back to Gauteng.

Recommended gear / restrictions :

General information :

• Affiliation
• Cape Town City Tour
• Cape Point Tour
• Jewish History
• Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
• Robben Island
• Wine Routes
• Whale Watching
• Anglo Boer War around Gauteng
• Battlefield trip – Magaliesburg
• Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris
• Constitutional Hill
• Cullinan Diamond Mine
• De Wildt Cheetah Centre
• Elephant Sanctuary
• Lesedi Cultural Village
• Malapa Fossil Site and Gladysvale
• Pilanesberg
• Johannesburg Jewish history
• Pretoria city tour
• Soweto Tour
• 3 day Kruger Classic Safari
• 4 day Kruger Walking Safaris
• 4 day Kruger Park & Panorama Route

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

• Game Parks of Northern KwaZulu Natal
• Best of Cape Town
• Garden Route Tour – 4 days

6 National Parks of the Cape

• S.A. War 1898-1902. The Anglo Boer War

Namaqualand Wildflowers

• The Overberg and Whales
• East Africa
• Vic Falls and Chobe

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Battlefield trip - magaliesburg, zanzibar - pearl beach resort.

During August and September, depending on winter rain, the Namaqualand and the West Coast of the fairest Cape transforms into a kaleidoscope of color which is brought on by the wildflowers of the area after the winter rains. This tour is a special interest and seasonal trip and designed for you to visit as many of these wonderful sights as possible in parts of the Northern Cape as well as the Western Cape. So you will be staying in small towns along the N7 on the west coast and enjoy South African hospitality at its best.

Namaqualand daisy

Day 1: Saturday 15 August

We depart early morning from Johannesburg. On route to Kuruman, we travel via Ventersdorp, Coligny, Sannieshof towards Vryburg. Then we continue towards Kuruman, where we visit the Eye of Kuruman. Overnight stay in Kathu.

Day 2: Sunday 16 August

After breakfast, we depart towards Kakamas. On route we have rest stops at Olifantshoek and Upington.  After lunch in Upington, we travel via Keimoes, exploring the Green Kalahari before arriving in Kakamas. This afternoon we will visit the spectacular Augrabies Waterfall on the outskirts of the town.  The overnight stay and dinner is in Kakamas.

Day 3: Monday 17 August  

We depart for Springbok, with a rest stop at Pofadder, and on route we start seeing the first of the wildflowers. We visit the Goegap nature reserve in the afternoon, together with the Hester Malan Wildflower Garden. Overnight stay (for 1 night) in Springbok

Kakamas Road Stall

Day 4: Tuesday 18 August

After breakfast, we travel slowly southwards towards Kamieskroon. This is where we visit the famous Skilpad Wildflower Reserve with its spectacular display of Namaqualand daisies. We spend quality time in this spectacular reserve before we travel south, through the well-known “Knersvlakte”. The overnight stay for the next two nights is in VanRhynsdorp.

Day 5: Wednesday 19 August

Today is set out to view the flowers of the Nieuwoudville area, visiting the Nieuwoudville Waterfall, the Hantam national botanical gardens and the Quiver Tree Forest. Enjoy the variety of bulb and plant species found in the area. Enjoy lunch in town. Return late afternoon the VanRhynsdorp

Day 6:  Thursday 20 August

After a leisurely breakfast, we travel to Clanwilliam to visit the town and the beautiful Ramskop Wildflower Garden. After spending quality time in these magnificent gardens, it is time for lunch in town and some shopping before travelling on wards to Lambertsbay. Overnight stay for the next 1 night is in Lambertsbay

Namaqualand Daisies

Day 7: Friday 21 August

Today we continue to explore the wonders of the West Coast, travelling along the coastline towards Saldanha Bay and Langebaan. We stay over for the last 2 nights in Langebaan.

Day 8: Saturday 22 August

The West Coast area offers a large and different variety of fauna and flora. Enjoy the day exploring the area, including a visit to Darling with its various wildflower reserves in and around town, the Tienie Versveld Wildflower Reserve. We end the day by visiting the West Coast National Park

Day 9: Sunday 23 August

Depart after breakfast so that you are in time for your flight departure from Cape Town to Johannesburg. On arrival in Johannesburg, you will be met by a colleague and transferred back home.

• Departure As arranged
• Departure Time As arranged
• Return Time As arranged
• Included Accommodation Entrance fees Breakfast Dinner
• Not Included Drinks Lunch Gratuities Personal items Curios, Laundry Telephone calls

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8-day 

Namaqualand flower tour    .

Namaqualand is a place where one can experience nature in a special and extraordinary way and is steeped in the story of the Namaqualand daisies; an abundance of fertile flowers that transform the almost lifeless Namaqualand into a beautiful floral display of beauty in spring.

It was once the hunting ground of the Bushman, with wonderful stories of survival in an unfriendly and unforgiving world, until the rains come and everything unfolds in an unprecedented floral splendour.

      Itinerary:

If you arrive a day or two earlier, we recommend booking an excursion to Soweto or the Apartheid Museum.

You will be picked up at any of the following spots for the start of the tour between 6 am and 7 am:

1. O.R.Tambo Airport, 2. Gautrain Centurion Station,

3. Your centrally located hotel, 4. Home pick up

Please request a quote (info@ amatungulu.com ) for home pick up, or if your hotel is not on our route. (Between the O.R.Tambo Airport and our destination.) Pick up point must be indicated on the booking form. 

Day 1: Johannesburg - Kimberley -500km

Depart early from Johannesburg / Pretoria in a westerly direction. The road takes us through the plains of the old Western Transvaal, across the Vaal River. We stop several times along the way and view the great hole of Kimberley during which the glory of the social life that followed the discovery of diamonds is experienced. We spend the night in Kimberley with your normal or luxury accommodation options.

Day 2: Kimberley - Upington -410km

History lies dotted on the R64 that runs west from Kimberley over places with names such as Schmidtsdrift, Campbell, Griquatown, Boegoeberg to Upington. Already here we can see some of the Kalahari sand dunes along the way and if we are lucky gemsbok and springbok. Dried fruit is bought along the road. A stop at Augrabies is part of the travel program. We spend the night in Upington.

Day 3: Upington – Kamieskroon- 550km

We hope that this year's flower season will be long and the East wind will stay away. We drive to Springbok and enjoy lunch at a restaurant. Then to the Namaqua National Park. Here it's just splendour of colour where you look. We spend the night in the vicinity of Kamieskroon.

Day 4: Kamieskroon - Lamberts Bay -425km

After breakfast we travel through the Knersvlakte in the direction of the Bokkeveld mountain range where we will drive up the Van Rhyns Pass which offers some incredible views over Namaqualand. Then to the quiver tree nursery in Vanrhynsdorp, a refuge of species from the region. We visit the flower bulb capital of the world, Nieuwoudtville, where the bulb species grow in the 'Boland of the Namaqualand'. We hunt the most beautiful areas for wildflowers, for common flower species, and also visit the Hantam Botanical Garden. After this we drive to Lamberts Bay, with a stop at Clanwilliam to visit the Rooibos tea factory shop and the Ramskop Nature Park.

Day 5: Lambertsbaai – Langebaan - 170km

Lambertsbaai owes its origins to simple beginnings as a fishing village. From here we travel to the West Coast National Park, against the background of the blue lagoon, white dunes, rare fynbos, green wetlands and boundless waves, there is much to experience, we see the wildlife in the park, and especially enjoy the Postberg part. We spend the night in Langebaan.

Day 6: Langebaan – Matjiesfontein – 300km

Start the drive back inland after we say goodbye to the West Coast and experience the open spaces of the Karoo after we cross the Cape fold mountains. The Cape Fold Belt is a late Paleozoic fold and thrust belt, which affected the sequence of sedimentary rock layers of the Cape Supergroup in the southwestern corner of South Africa. Overnight in the Matjiesfontein area.

(Optional lunch at "die Strandloper" if group agrees)

Day 7: Matjiesfontein - Gariep dam- 600km

After breakfast we leave for Gariep dam. It's a long road but we often stop to stretch our legs. Overnight at A’damsview which is considered a place with one of the best views over the interior of South Africa, and enjoys the breathtaking views over the largest dam. (or similar accommodation)

Day 8: Gariep Dam - Home -650km

From Gariep we drive to Bloemfontein. There we pay a short visit to the Women's Monument. After another long day we come home with beautiful memories.

Download Afrikaans PDF version here

Highlights:.

1. Big hole of Kimberley

2. Augrabies falls

3. Namaqa Nature Park

4. Kokerboom nursery in                              Vanrhynsdorp

5. Hantam Botanical Garden

6. Rooibos tea shop in Clanwilliam

7. Ramskop Nature Park

8. West Coast National Park

9. Gariep dam

10. Women's Monument

A deposit of 40% is required when a booking is made. Last payment must be made no later than 15 days before the tour starts. Prices are calculated as follows:

Normal: (4-5  people)

R 11450 pp sharing,

Single person supplement: R 3900

(6+  people)

R 10780 pp sharing

Luxury:  (4-5  people)

R 18900 pp sharing,

Single person supplement: R 5850

R 1 485 0 pp sharing

child age 4-12 half price child age 0-3 free

Accommodation 

Entrance fees

National Park fees

Breakfast and Dinner

Driver/guide

Transport by private                         air- conditioned vehicle

 Excluded:

Excess luggage charges 

Alcoholic drinks​

Gratuities (recommended)

Travel insurance; Flights; Airport transfers; Porterage; Visa fees

The groups can range from a min. of 4 people to a max. of 19

                      2025-08-23

You will be redirected to our booking site: Rezgo

It is important to remember that the flowering season is determined by the rainy season in the Western Cape, and therefore we reserve the right to change our daily travel plans to suit the weather. We also have the right to change the program according to the place where the flowers are best during the tour and for the group. Where accommodation is not available, we reserve the right to book similar places.

Accommodation is determined according to normal (3 star), or luxury, (3.5-5 star) options. You stay in different nearby places depending on your package. In some places the accommodation is at the same place, but with more luxurious rooms. If there is no restaurant at our accommodation, the food is cooked by our team, or you will receive meal vouchers for the following amounts: breakfast: R 120, dinner: R 250.

Namaqualand Flower Tour

Booking needs min. 2 travelers

• Fully Guided
• Personalized

• Explore Kimberley's diamond mining history
• Visit Augrabies Falls and buy local dried fruit
• See Namaqua's wildflowers and botanical garden
• Tour Rooibos tea factory and Ramskop Nature Park
• Experience wildlife in West Coast National Park
• Introduction
• Day 1 Johannesburg - Kimberley - 500km
• Day 2 Kimberley - Upington -410km
• Day 3 Upington – Kamieskroon- 550km
• Day 4 Kamieskroon - Lamberts Bay -425km
• Day 5 Lambertsbaai – Langebaan - 170km
• Day 6 Langebaan – Matjiesfontein – 300km
• Day 7 Matjiesfontein - Gariep dam - 600km
• Day 8 Gariep Dam - Home -650km

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Kimberley Kosmos Guest House

Augrabies Valle Guesthouse

Kamieskroon Kroon Lodge

Lambertsbaai Bay Plaza

Au Plais De Langebaan Palm Tree Villa B&B

Riverside Lodge or Melkstal Cottage Ceres

A’damsview Gariep dam

Adventure Type

• Group of 12 travelers max.
• Fast booking confirmation
• Carefully planned itineraries
• Travel with like-minded people
• Travel with your own group of min. 2 travelers
• Choose your preferred dates and duration
• Upgrade your accommodation
• Customize the itineraries

Operated by

Amatungulu Tour

Number of tours

1 to 90 years old

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Amatungulu Tours provide packaged tours to explore the breath-taking beauty and fascinating history of South Africa. We are a tour operator with a difference as attention to detail and care is given from booking until you arrive back home. We can be fully trusted, and only provides the best in...

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Customer Reviews

• Tour Operator Amatungulu Tour 5.0
• Sabir · 21st August 2024 Jake's was a brilliant host and made the tour an experience of a lifetime. He knows how to strike the right balance... Show more
• Cathie · 22nd June 2024 Great tour , lots of animals close by the road. Accommodation, really good hot showers, then there were some... Show more
• Ann · 19th April 2024 Such an amazing tour with a big mix of variety. The panorama route and then kruger park where most animals are see,... Show more

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• August 2025
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• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
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• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 12th December 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 12th December 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Amatungulu Tour. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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The Complete Guide to seeing the Flowers in Namaqualand, South Africa

Each year the West Coast region of South Africa bursts into bloom with the annual spring flowers. Visitors from around the world flock to see this incredible natural phenomenon as the landscape turns orange for a few short weeks in August. Read my Namaqualand Flower Guide for a complete guide to seeing the flowers in Namaqualand, South Africa.

When to go?

Planning a trip to see the wild flowers can be a little tricky as it all depends on the rain received each year and the exact timing of the flower bloom isn’t really known until it is happening. However, I think you can be fairly certain that the last week of August is a safe bet to book your trip. It is also always best to start with the more Northern flower regions (like Namaqua National Park and Niewoudtville) as these tend to get warmer sooner and bloom sooner, ending with the more Southern flower regions (Biedouw Valley and West Coast National Park). This year we did have a lot of rain earlier in the season so it is quite possible that the flowers will bloom earlier. More rain also means more prolific flower scenes!

How long to go for?

Seeing the wild flowers can easily fit into a week long trip. For our trip we spent 2 nights in Dwarskerbos along the West Coast, 3 nights just outside Namaqua National Park, and then 2 nights in the Biedouw Valley.

Getting there

Where to go to see the flowers in namaqualand, dwarskersbos, west coast.

We began our flower road trip with a stop in Dwarskersbos along the West Coast. This was the perfect stop over spot to begin the trip so we could gain a bit of distance up towards the real flower region. While this wasn’t primarily a flower stop there were plenty of white daisies lining the roads here and we started to get into the flower spirit. We were close to the Vedldrif salt pan and were able to see some flamingoes and enjoy the vibrant pink salt flats. We also had a lovely walk along the Port Owen Marina which was beautiful.

Dwarskersbos Accommodation

We stayed at DK Villas which is the most stunning beach side holiday home. It’s within walking distance to the beach and beautifully decorated. Johan and Petra were such wonderful hosts!

Book your accommodation with Booking.com, my favourite accommodation booking platform:

Vanrhynsdorp – Maskam Guest Farm

Next up we drove up towards our accommodation near Namaqua National Park. On the way we stopped at Maskam Guest Farm near Vanrhynsdorp. This lovely private farm has walking trails open to the public. We paid a R10 entrance fee and were allowed to either drive along the farm roads to the flowers or take a walk. It was 34 degrees celcius the day we were here so we opted for the self-drive option. Unfortunately, because we had such late rains the year we went, the flowers here were not as prolific as we had hoped for. But the mounatin backdrop was gorgeous and it was lovely to see so many different flower species. Here are all the details for viewing the flowers at Maskam. *This is a private farmland and so walking in the fields was permitted. Just be sure not to step directly on the flowers! In National Parks it is strictly forbidden to walk in the flowers.

If you are willing to drive a little further out of town on your first day and jump straight into the flowers then I would definitely recommend staying at Maskam Guest Farm for your first night. It is only a 3,5hr drive from Cape Town and is the most beautiful setting. The winter rains have been good so far and so the flowers should be excellent here this year.

Namaqua National Park

No flower guide would be complete without a stop at the heart of Namaqualand: Namaqua National Park. As you drive up into the Northern Cape the wild flowers on the side of the road get more and more prolific with colourful vygies and daisies everywhere. Next you’ll arrive at the main event: Namaqua National Park! Namaqua National Park is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. I had high hopes and every single one of my expectations was exceeded. We spent 3 nights staying just outside the park and this allowed us to spend a full day exploring Namaqua National Park and a full day exploring the Kamiesberg mountains. Both were absolutely breathtaking! To be honest you could even spend 4 nights here and have a second full day in the park.

Namaqua National Park Accommodation

We stayed in a farm house accommodation called Dwarspoort Farmhouse which was located a few minutes drive from the park entrance. It was rustic but absolutely lovely! Our hosts were so lovely and sweet. Here are the details to book the cottage:

Serene van Wyk: [email protected] 0828734299

For your first full day in the Namaqua region you’re going to want to go into Namaqua National Park . You’re going to be entering at the Skilpad section of the park which is the main park entrance. For more information on how to get there follow the SANParks maps . You’ll be able to explore the park both on foot with a beautiful flower trail near the entrance gate, as well as by car with a drive around the flower section of the park. For those with a 4×4 and a taste for adventure there are additional routes that take you deeper into the park. You’ll easily spend the whole day here so make sure you pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic spots.

Daily Conservation Fees

Gate hours :.

• 08:00 to 17:00

The park opens at 8am but the flowers will need a bit of time to warm up and open up. However, you’re also going to want to try get here before the tour buses start arriving. So perhaps around 9:30am is a good time to aim to get here.

Once you’ve arrived and paid your park fees at the gate you can park your car at reception. Here you can go in and get a map for the flower walking trails. There are two options of walking trails available to you. Both provide a wonderful opportunity to walk among the fields of wildflowers along demarcated paths. I would recommend packing comfortable walking shoes, some water and hat as it gets pretty hot here in August! The walking trail was one of my absolute highlights of this flower roadtrip and is definitely what sets Namaqua apart from West Coast National Park.

Here are your trail options: Skilpad Walking Trail. This 5km circular route is a very popular walking trail, especially in the flower season. Korhaan Walking Trail. The 3km Korhaan Walking trail also starts at the Skilpad office but meanders through bushy areas, enabling you to see a greater variety of flowers.

Once you have completed the walking trail through the flowers you can hop back in your car and drive the Skilpad Flower Loop . This is a circular loop suitable for all cars (not 4×4 exclusive) and takes you through the most gorgeous carpeted fields of orange flowers. There are a few picnics spots along this route so stop at one and enjoy the view while munching on your lunch.

Both the walking trails and this self-drive Skilpad flower route will allow you to see all the incredible flowers of the park. However, if you have a 4×4 and are up for a bit more of an adventure there are multiple other routes you can follow to explore the park a bit further. The scenery as you go deeper into the park resembles that of Namibia and is absolutely gorgeous!

Kamieskroon & Kamiesberg

Before coming to Namaqua National Park I hadn’t heard of the Kamiesberg mountains or that it is one of the top flower locations in the region. We discovered this fact in a 1984 copy of Namqualand: Garden of the Gods book written by Freeman Pattersonn. Patterson spoke of rolling hills covered in pastel colours and flowers as far as the eye could see. We asked our hosts about it (as there was no cell signal to Google anything) and they sent us off armed with some handwritten directions to a local guesthouse, Pedroskloof, in the Kamiesberg mountains. We were told the guesthouse owners would be able to give us the next set of instructions to find the promised land of flowers. They told us where to go from there. Here are the detailed directions for you to follow:

Drive towards Kamieskroon (a small town just off the N7) and turn left up the Kamiesberg Pass. Once you have gone over the pass you will continue driving until you reach  Thys se Kombuis. Here you can turn left and continue on towards Pedroskloof Farm Accommodation. Here it may be worth checking in with the guesthouse for confirmation on where the flowers are blooming at that particular time.

From Pedroskloof you will continue driving for another 30 minutes. You will pass through 2 rural villages, Rooifontein and Kalkoond before you see a gate on your left. You are free to enter this gate and drive down the dirt road to fields and fields of flowers. On the right of the main road there is a quiver tree forest which is well worth visiting!

I absolutely adored both our time spent in the Namaqua Region exploring both the Namaqua National Park and the Kamiesberg mountains. This was our Nothern-most stop and so we then began our journey down south again towards the Biedouw Valley, stopping at Niewoudtville and Papkuilsfontein along the way.

Niewoudtville & Papkuilsfontein

Both located on the drive between Kamieskroon and the Biedouw Valley, Nievoudtville and Papkuilsfontein make for worthy pit stops along the way. Nievoudtville is a small Nothern Cape town with a number of plots of glorious flowers dotted around the town. There are also a few restaurants here for a lunch stop.

We didn’t go into Papkuilsfontein but drove past and saw a pair of bat-earred foxes in the yellow blooms which was a treat sighting! Previously, day visitors could pay the Papkuilsfontain Guestfarm a visit to admire the gorgeous flower fields but since August 2022, the farm is only accessible by booked guests staying at the farm. If you are looking to take a slower trip through the Namaqua region this looks like a lovely spot to add to your itinerary.

Biedouw Valley

The Biedouw Valley is pure magic! I had visited the Biedouw Valley previously just for a weekend getaway from Cape Town but decided to include it in the Namaqualand Flower Itinerary because it was just so special. The Biedouw Valley is an area of farmland in the Cederberg region that is usually farmed for rooibos tea. In the spring months the farmers don’t turn the soil and let the fields grow wild, resulting in the most beautiful display of wild flowers in the fields.

Bideouw Valley Accommodation

Lucky for us flower-seekers the Biedouw Valley is right next door to climbing-mecca, Rocklands. This means that there is plenty of affordable accommodation in the area.

Budget: On my first visit we were a group of 8 students and stayed in self-catering cottages at Traveller’s Rest . It was incredibly affordable, well-equipped, and close to the flowers. We were also able to get a booking at quite short notice! This spot is popular among climbers who come to boulder in the region. De Pakhuys is another affordable spot popular among climbers which is a short drive to the Valley.

Mid-range: On another trip I stayed in the heart of the valley at the original Biedeau Plaas which was a lovely old farm house (contact Rika at [email protected] 0835120281). Nothing could compare to the magic of witnessing the mountains turn the same colour colour as the flower fields at golden hour. So I would absolutely recommend trying to find accomodation in the valley itself. Friends of our stayed at Biedouw Valley Wegbreek which has rustic cottages nestled in the rocky mountains. I have heard wonderful things about Enjo Nature Farm . Situated right in the heart of the Biedouw Valley, they offer camping and self-catering options and have a flower field of their own. Unfortunately, they are very popular and are booked up quite far in advance. Another gem close by (but not in the actual valley) is the AfriCamps at de Pakhuys which is perfect for families and also has hot tub options!

Luxury: If you’re looking for some luxury then check out the Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Welness Retreat .

For all the juicy details on how to get to the Biedouw Valley and where to find the best flower fields you can go ahead and read my Spring Flowers in the Biedouw Valley blog post.

The flower diversity in the Biedouw Valley was definitely the best with some many gorgeous difference species.

And so concludes the Complete Guide to seeing the Flowers in Namaqualand, South Africa. These spots are perfect when incorporated into a 7-10 day road trip. However if you are just looking for a weekend getaway from Cape Town then the Biedouw Valley is only 3,5 hours away. If you are just looking for a day trip there are plenty of places to see the wild flowers close to Cape Town: see daisies in the West Coast National Park, canola fields in the Overberg region and blossoms in Babylonstoren. Read my  Spring Flowers in Cape Town blog post  for all these details.

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4 thoughts on “ The Complete Guide to seeing the Flowers in Namaqualand, South Africa ”

Great guide for the flowers. Planning to go this year – so this guide is perfect. Must take my pupper ( meduim dog) with – any advise on accommodation and park admissions?

That’s wonderful news! You’ll need to check directly with the accommodation owners and SANParks for their policies on dogs. Hopefully your pupper can join!

Thank you for the detailed guide. I am really hoping to do the self drive this year. Your guide will be very useful to me. Take care

That is a pleasure! It is such a beautiful part of the country and so worth visiting!

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Namaqualand Flower Tours

Experience the wild flowers of namaqualand, namaqua national park.

Every turn in the road paints an unforgettable picture: valleys filled with Namaqualand daisies and other spring flowers that pulse with sheer energy and joy. Next to some eye-catching succulents, a porcupine and a tall aloe pay witness to a baboon overturning a rock and pouncing on a scorpion.

During early August and September, seemingly overnight, the dusty valleys of Namaqualand are transformed into a wonderland, carpeted with wildflowers. With its winter rainfall, Namaqualand is home to the richest bulb flora of any arid region in the world and more than a 1 000 of its estimated 3 500 plant species are found nowhere else on earth.

Escape to the land of contrasts, where the rigorous climate has created a myriad of life forms superbly adapted to their specific habitat. Fields of flowers, star studded nights, quiver trees, enormous granite outcrops and the icy Atlantic are but a few wonders that await the visitor to what is truly the Creators’ playground.

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Breathtaking scenery

The wild flower route through northern cape: feast your eyes and soul on the pride of namaqualand.

T T he Wild Flower Route in South Africa’s Northern Cape province is a springtime vision that will colour your imagination for the rest of your days. Here, Namaqualand daisies and more than 3   500 other floral species emerge in spring – from early August to the end of September – to offer one of the world’s greatest flower shows.  

A 3 -hour journey up the N7 from Cape Town, branching at Vanrhynsdorp , takes you to your first stop: the 6 200-hectare Hantam National Botanical Garden, just outside the village of Nieuwoudtville . Known as ‘ the bulb capital of the world ’ , its soils contain startling numbers of geophytes (plants that have underground storage organs) . A single spadeful of earth can yield nearly 100.   

‘An incredible 1 350 plant species have been recorded on the Bokkeveld Plateau so far, and about a third of these are threatened with extinction,’ says the garden’s curator, Eugene Marinus.  

Among the most spectacular geophytes are the brilliant blue pride of Nieuwoudtville , Geissorhiza splendidissima ,   and the 2 finest  Sparaxis  species –  Sparaxis elegans  and  Sparaxis pillansii .  

While most visitors come to see the spring flowers, autumn (March and April ) in Nieuwoudtville offers another spectacular flower display, when the Amaryllidaceae species – the beautiful, lily-like amaryllis family – come out to play.  

The Hantam National Botanical Garden also offers a choice of hiking trails and mountain - bike routes, as do several farms in the area.  

From Nieuwoudtville , head back up the N7 to the 150 000-hectare Namaqua National Park, where flowers bloom as far as the eye can see. There are several floral hotspots along the way, including the Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve at Kamieskroon . This route leads all the way through the Namaqualand town of Springbok to the Goegap Nature Reserve , which covers nearby 7   000 hectare s .  

Hiking, eco-trails, day drives, mountain-bike and 4 -wheel drive routes are all on offer in and around both reserves. You can also learn about pollinators, including butterflies, bees and birds, as well as wildlife, including the bat-eared fox, steenbok and Cape porcupine.  

The information offices at the Namaqua National Park and in Nieuwoudtville offer maps and everything else you’ll need to know – s o come for at least a week , and take the long road to the land of colour and imagination.  

T T ravel tips & Planning  info  

Who to contact

Hantam National Botanical Garden   Tel: +27 (0)27 218 1200   Email:  [email protected]  

Nieuwoudtville information office   Tel: +27 (0)27 218 1336  

Namaqua National Park   Tel: +27 (0)27 672 1948   Email: [email protected]      

How to get here

Drive yourself or book a tour. The Hantam National Botanical Garden outside of Nieuwoudtville is 350km from Cape Town, or a relaxed 4-hour drive. The Namaqua National Park is 495km from Cape Town – about a 6 - hour drive.  

Best time to visit

The best time is spring (late August to the end of September), when you can see the mass flower display. Autumn (March/April) is the best time to see the flowering of the March lilies and other bulb species in Nieuwoudtville .  

Drive yourself or join a tour.  

Length of stay

At least a week to see the flowers and attractions in this vast area. Also bear in mind that the flowers do not open in heavily overcast and rainy weather, so you need to factor in a day or 2 extra for this.  

What to pack

Walking shoes, binoculars, cameras, water, snacks, hats, sunblock.  

Where to stay

Throughout the W ild F lower R oute there are places to stay, but it is best to book in advance. Contact the parks or the tourist offices to find out what is on offer.  

What's happening

The information offices will provide you with details of where the flowers are blooming best each day and about other activities in the area.  

Related l inks  

• Na m aqua National Park  
• Namaqualand Tourism  
• Nieuwoudtvi l le Tourism  
• South African N a tional Parks ( SANParks )  
• Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme  

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The Most Spectacular Places To View The Namaqualand Flowers

Are you finally looking to explore the Namaqualand Flowers? Yay! That’s great news!

The Namaqualand Wildflowers are a huge must-do for all South Africans. People travel from all over to see these magnificent fields of flowers come to life as they cover the dry, arid landscape like a thick carpet of colour.

We don’t know about you, but it took us forever to actually see these flowers for ourselves and even though they are a huge bucket list activity, it’s kind of difficult to define what the “Namaqualand Flowers” really are and where to even see them.

So we are here to clear things up as simply as we can! Let’s discover what the Namaqualand Flowers are all about!

• South Africa
• Namaqualand

Table of Contents

A LITTLE HISTORY

WHERE TO STAY

THINGS TO DO

BEST TIME TO VISIT

HOW DO I GET THERE?

YOUTUBE TRAVEL GUIDE

What are the namaqualand flowers (and why should you visit them).

Firstly, let’s begin with what the Namaqualand is. Geographically, Namaqualand is a dry desert region in South Africa and Namibia which stretches along the west coast for over 1,000 km. It is separated into two sections: Little Namaqua and Great Namaqua.

Little Namaqua is what we explored and what this guide covers as it forms part of the Northern Cape in South Africa, while Great Namaqua is part of Namibia. The two (Little and Great Namaqua) are separated by the lower course of the Orange River.

Although the flower route is often referred to as “The Namaqualand Flowers”, Namaqualand is only one section of the flower route (the section up North), however, the flowers continue on into Clanwilliam, the Cederberg and the West Coast, which includes Cape Town. 

Why do you want to visit the Namaqualand Flowers? Well, once a year, in spring, these Namaqualand daisies begin to bloom in the dry, arid desert and we get to watch as the landscape starts to transform into an ocean of colour. Bursting with Yellow, Orange, White and Purple flowers, and many other flora species that can be found nowhere else in the world. It is a worldwide phenomonon!

When To Visit The Namaqualand Flowers

Let it be known and don’t be fooled, these desert daisies only come around once a year, every springtime.

Typically, the best time to view them is between  mid-August  to  late September. This means that it is very important to plan ahead and know where you will be travelling. You also need to be flexible because these little flowers have a mind of their own.

Apparently, and we based our trip on this information, the flowers begin to bloom in the Northern Cape first, and shortly afterwards can be found in Nieuwoudtville and the Cederberg – until they eventually reach the West Coast. So it is better to go up north first around late August, and then if you are near the West Coast, like in Cape Town, you might still see some wildflowers in late September.

Remember, however, that the flowers are on nature’s schedule and not ours, so they can change and fluctuate from year to year, making the timing very difficult to follow to the tee. Honestly, it’s a huge gamble; you may see them, you may not. It’s also all weather-dependent, the flowers can vary depending on how much rain the area received during the months leading up to flower season. Personally, I think that adds more appeal to the whole experience because everyone will encounter the flowers differently.

We had instances where families going the opposite way to us were raving about the flowers in one area and by the time we got there, they weren’t as cool and vice versa.

Actually, for the last decade, the region has seen extreme drought. So this is the first time in a while that they celebrated winter rains and more of the flowers coming back. This is why it is a great idea to plan your trip ahead of time.

(P.S. There are Facebook groups that you can join so that you can stay up to date with the Namaqualand Flowers. People update this information as they follow the wild flower routes. Maybe try this one or that one. )

The Best Time To See Flowers

It is also important to know that the flowers don’t bloom the whole day. They come out with the sunlight and face the sun during the day. So, as soon as the sun starts to go down (or if it’s a rainy/cloudy day), they will close up and not be as visible, again adding to nature’s gamble.

The best time to view them would probably be from 10:00 – 16:00, while the sun is in full force.

Where Can I See The Namaqualand Flowers?

- here is our flower route itinerary -, the northern route.

We started our journey up north, first visiting the town of Springbok.

It is the largest town in the Namaqualand region and survives predominantly from tourism, mining and farming. It is also known as the Namaqualand Flower Capital.

However, we are not going to lie, we felt Springbok to be a little underwhelming this year around. It was our first stop on our hunt for the wildflowers and honestly, when we arrived, I turned to Byron and asked him where all of the flowers were. Apparently, there were only really flowers in the Skilpad section of the Namaqua National Park , which we accidentally missed!

Also, we arrived at Goegap Nature Reserve and it was closed! It wasn’t supposed to be; we tried calling, Googling and even waved our hands to staff passing by in the hopes to get their attention and ask why, but they just ignored us. It was on our list of things to do, and apparently it is lovely, it just didn’t work out for us this time.

• FLOWER HOTSPOTS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN SPRINGBOK:
• Goegap Nature Reserve
• The Namaqua National Park
• Skilpad Nature Reserve

Hondeklipbaai

Hondeklipbaai is a small coastal village just 117 km south-west of Springbok and we absolutely loved it! It was the first harbour to start exporting the copper ore that had been discovered at O’Kiep mine, nine minutes from Springbok.

It is a lovely little coastal village to add to your list if you don’t mind a little bit of a detour and have a 4×4! We did it without a 4×4, but wouldn’t really recommend it.

• FLOWER HOTSPOTS TO LOOK OUT FOR NEAR HONDEKLIPBAAI:
• The Garies Road (Travel on this road on your way out of Hondeklipbaai)
• The Namaqua National Park - Coastal Section

The Little Fishing Village That Stole Our Hearts Hondeklipbaai

Nieuwoudtville.

Without a doubt, this was our favourite place to see the Namaqualand Flowers in 2020. It is a small, quiet village lined with bright yellow, white, purple and orange flowers. Nieuwoudtville has been known to draw attention from across the globe for its rich diversity and impressive flower displays every springtime. It is also known as the bulb capital of the world and is renowned for having the cleanest air in South Africa.

• FLOWER HOTSPOTS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN NIEUWOUDTVILLE:
• The Matjiesfontein Padstal
• The Nieuwoudtville Wild Flower Reserve
• The Hantam National Botanical Gardens

THE CEDERBERG ROUTE

Clanwilliam & the cederberg.

Although we didn’t come here specifically for the flowers, Clanwilliam has been known to host some amazing flower routes, including the Bieudouw Valley and the Ramskop Wild Flower Garden.

The Cederberg itself doesn’t really have spring flowers, but you can definitely come and see the Protea (our national flower) and fynbos in full bloom.

• FLOWER HOTSPOTS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE CEDERBERG:
• Bieudouw valley
• Ramskop Wild Flower Garden

THE WEST COAST ROUTE

Darling is a really awesome little town in a farming area on the West Coast that deserves a visit in itself. However, they also host some beautiful wildflower displays. We only visited the Tienie Versveld Reserve this time, but there are many more to add to the list for next time.

• FLOWER HOTSPOTS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN DARLING:
• Tienie Versveld Reserve

THE WEST COAST

The West Coast seems to be filled with many amazing treasures, from farmlands to mountain ranges to unspoilt beaches, also hosting some amazing wildflowers.

• FLOWER HOTSPOTS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE WEST COAST:
• West Coast National Park (Postberg Nature Reserve)
• Cape Columbine Nature Reserve

Where To Stay

This all depends on how you want to plan your trip. We chose to travel slowly from one town to another, staying over and really enjoying an area. You could, however, stay in a central area and travel out every day to nearby towns.

We first travelled from Johannesburg to Upington. Then we went to Springbok where we rented an Airbnb for the night. We travelled to Hondeklipbaai, then to Nieuwoudtville, to the Cederberg, the Koue Bokkeveld, finally arriving in Yzerfontein.

This is where we stayed:

- River Place Manor -

Hondeklipbaai.

- Honnehokke -

Niewouldtville.

- Linda Se Dop -

- Cederberg Ridge -

Yzerfontein.

- Not Forgotten -

How to get to namaqualand.

Well, If you don’t already have a car, rent one, and if you can, rent a 4×4 .

There are a lot of hidden gems, and coastal routes to be taken that require a 4×4. I mean, we did some of them in a normal little sedan, but if I had the choice of a 4×4, I would have taken it… especially when doing the coastal routes!

This is really a get in the car, explore and get lost kind of road trip!

• Distance From South Africa's Major Cities' Airports to The Namaqua National Park:
• Johannesburg - 1,234km - 13hr 4 min (Taking the N14)
• Durban - 1,643km - 16hr 29 min (Taking the N8)
• Cape Town - 536km - 5hr 36 min (Taking the N7)

As you can see, the drive is long and it is much better if you are already coming from Cape Town, but it’s not necessary. You won’t be able to travel it in a day, so bear in mind that stops are required.

If you aren’t really interested in embarking on a long South African Road Trip , then fly into Cape Town and discover the West Coast flowers. You could also look for a company that does Namaqualand Flower tours. They do exist and they plan everything for you.

Our Takeaway After Seeing The Namaqualand Flowers

Finally, we are very glad that we can say we have seen the Namaqualand Flowers!

We had great moments, saw amazing flowers, laughed, held our breath over potholes and dirt roads. We experienced some really disappointing flower displays and then came across others that were magnificent!

The point being, this trip will be unique to you and only you can determine how you view it. Maybe you wouldn’t necessarily travel to see some random flowers, that’s okay. Then make it about the towns. There is something for everyone to experience.

One of my favourite moments was when we arrived in the Namaqua National Park. There was no office, just road. We parked the car, got out and looked around. There was not a car in sight. It was just the two of us, a dusty lonely road, blossoming wildflowers and a tortoise on a mission.

Check It Out

Other blog posts you might be interested in:.

• What You Need To Know Before Embarking On A South African Road Trip
• Top Attractions Along The Midlands Meander
• Giant’s Castle Slackpacking Trail: Hiking Without The Fuss
• 13 Reasons Why You Need A Drakensberg Road Trip

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• DearTravallure
• December 7, 2020

Great blog Tammy! I’m inspired…want to travel!

Thank you so much! We hope that one day you get to see them!😃

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The Magic of Namaqualand: South Africa’s Superbloom

By Louise Peterson · Last updated on June 7, 2024

Every year, a miraculous transformation takes place in Namaqualand, a semi-desert region in South Africa. What was once an arid landscape bursts into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, attracting nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers from all over the world. This natural wonder is a must-see, but the experience offers so much more than just flowers.

There’s something incredibly soothing about returning to Namaqualand each year. Maybe it’s the way the landscape transforms from barren to blooming, reminding me of nature’s resilience and beauty. Or perhaps it’s the combination of stunning visuals, friendly people, and diverse activities that make each trip unique. Let me take you through the best times to visit, the prime spots for flower viewing, and some delightful activities to enhance your trip.

When to See the Namaqualand Flowers

Timing is everything when it comes to witnessing the floral splendor of Namaqualand. The blooming season typically runs from late July to early October, with the peak usually occurring in August and September. However, the exact timing can vary each year depending on the rainfall.

A good winter rain sets the stage for a spectacular spring display. But if the rain lasts too long it could be detrimental to flower peepers. Similarly, if it gets too hot too fast, the flowers fade quickly.

I remember my first visit to Namaqualand; I was skeptical about whether the flowers would be as breathtaking as the photos suggested. But stepping out of the car and seeing the fields of color stretching as far as the eye could see was nothing short of magical. Keep an eye on the weather patterns and flower reports, which are often updated by local tourism boards, to plan your visit for the best possible show.

Where to See the Best Blooms

Namaqualand’s flower region stretches over a vast area, from the tiny town of Pofadder in the north down the west coast, spilling into Cape Town . Each area offers its own unique floral variety and scenery, but my absolute favorite spot is the West Coast National Park. This park is just a short drive from Cape Town and boasts some of the most stunning flower displays I’ve ever seen.

The Postberg section of the West Coast National Park is particularly famous for its blooms, and it’s only open to the public during the flower season. Here, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of colors carpeting the hillsides and plains. The juxtaposition of the flowers against the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean is something you have to see to believe.

If you have more time, exploring further north to places like Nieuwoudtville, known as the “bulb capital of the world,” and the remote stretches around Pofadder and Springbok can be incredibly rewarding. The Namaqualand National Park is probably the most famous of the northern reaches. Located in the heart of Namaqualand, the park covers diverse terrains, from coastal areas to mountainous regions, each bursting into a riot of colors during the blooming season.

I particularly love the Skilpad section of the park, where rolling hills are blanketed with fields of daisies, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. The park also offers a network of trails for those who enjoy hiking, providing both easy walks and more challenging hikes that lead to breathtaking viewpoints.

Goegap Nature Reserve

Another must-visit spot is the Goegap Nature Reserve near Springbok. This reserve offers a slightly different but equally spectacular floral experience. The variety of flowers here is astonishing, with over 600 species of plants, including a myriad of succulents and endemic species that you won’t find anywhere else.

The rugged landscape of the reserve, with its rocky outcrops and sweeping vistas, provides a dramatic backdrop to the delicate blooms. Driving or hiking through Goegap is like stepping into a living, breathing painting.

Kammieskroon

How to See the Flowers

Seeing the Namaqualand flowers is a flexible adventure, with multiple ways to tailor your experience to your preferences. One of the easiest ways to see the flowers is by joining a guided tour. These tours are perfect if you prefer not to worry about logistics. Experienced guides know the best spots to visit and the right times to go, ensuring you get the most out of your trip.

If you enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace, renting a car is an excellent choice. The main flower hotspots are all accessible by car and you don’t need a high-clearance vehicle to drive there. Driving through the winding roads of Namaqualand with the windows down and the vibrant fields in sight is a liberating experience and nothing beats coming around a mountain bend and seeing the painted landscape sprawled out in front of you.

For those who love being in the heart of nature, hiking through the flower fields is an unforgettable experience. Slackpacking tours are a popular option, allowing you to trek through the blooming landscapes without carrying heavy gear.

These guided hikes offer a balance of adventure and comfort, as your luggage is transported for you, and you stay in charming guesthouses each night. The trails through Namaqua National Park and around Kammieskroon offer some of the best hiking routes, letting you immerse yourself fully in the beauty of the flowers.

What To Do Beyond The Flowers

While the flowers are the main attraction, there’s so much more to experience in this region. One of my favorite post-flower activities is visiting Darling Brewery. Located in the quaint town of Darling, this brewery offers a fantastic range of craft beers that are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. If the flower gods are working in your favor, you could even catch the spectacular canola bloom at the same time as the wildflower spectacle.

Another gem in the West Coast National Park is the Langebaan Lagoon. After soaking in the colors of the flowers, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip in this stunning body of water. The lagoon’s calm, crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, and even windsurfing.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

Santa Clara is a city of nearly 125,000 residents that’s located in Santa Clara County, about 75 kilometers south of San Francisco .

The city was founded more than 200 years ago as a Spanish Mission. Now, it’s most well-known for its booming tech industry that’s commonly referred to around the world as Silicon Valley.

Though it’s common knowledge to most football fans, it’s a surprise to many to discover that the relatively small city is also the home of the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers.

Visitors to Santa Clara have abundant activity options at their fingertips without venturing outside city limits, so staying engaged and entertained shouldn’t be an issue.

1. Levi’s Stadium

With a capacity of nearly 70,000, Levi’s Stadium on Marie P. DeBartolo Way in Santa Clara is one of the country’s premier professional football stadiums.

The 49ers play their home games here, and during the off-season, the stadium hosts a variety of annual events, including concerts featuring big names in the music industry.

Taking a family to a football game isn’t the least expensive activity option in the area, but for those who’ve never taken in a pro game, it’s an exhilarating experience that may be worth the cost.

Guided tours are also regularly available, and the bars and restaurants around the stadium are fun to visit year-round.

2. Ulistac Natural Area

Despite its large population and the overall hustle and bustle, the Bay Area features plenty of urban parks and natural areas that are convenient options for those interested in enjoying the great outdoors.

The Ulistac Natural Area is located on Lick Mill Road in Santa Clara. It is comprised of more than 40 acres that include a variety of distinct environments.

The natural area straddles the Guadalupe River and is home to an array of plants and animals that are well-suited to its riparian habitat.

A particularly popular attraction for bird watchers, it features a number of well-marked nature trails dotted with interpretive signs.

3. Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival

Californians take their art and wine seriously, and there’s no better way to combine the two than by visiting the Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival.

The event is held in the city’s Central Park and features nearly 200 vendors from across the country selling fine art and crafts, gourmet food, and a vast selection of California’s best wines.

Proceeds are donated to worthwhile causes that benefit residents in need. It all takes place in the early fall when the central California weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Other highlights include live entertainment and lots of art-related activities for kids.

4. The de Saisset Museum

Though he’s not exactly a household name for those who don’t typically travel in West Coast art circles, Ernest de Saisset was one of the Bay Area’s most prominent artists in the 19th century.

Saisset was a French immigrant who enrolled in Santa Clara University and studied painting as a young man.

The museum that now bears his name is located on the university’s campus. It includes a collection of more than 100 of his most impressive works.

It’s as much a historical attraction as it is an art one, and it also has other works from European and American artists dating back hundreds of years.

5. Intel Museum

Intel is one of the titans of the tech world. Over the years, it has been responsible for some of the most significant technological leaps forward in computer hardware.

The Intel Museum is located on the campus of the company’s world headquarters in Santa Clara, and it’s regularly open to the public.

Even for those who don’t fall into the tech-savvy category, it’s a fascinating place that’s definitely worth an hour or two of time.

Though it may sound dry to technophobes, it’s packed with interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages, so it’s great for kids with short attention spans too.

6. Santa Clara Farmers’ Market

There’s really no better way to rub elbows with locals, enjoy pleasant weather, and have access to tons of great products you won’t find elsewhere than by visiting a farmers’ market.

The Santa Clara Farmers’ Market is open year-round and features a little bit of everything – from seasonal produce and fresh baked goods to health and body products and prepared food items.

Held on Jackson Street near the downtown area, it’s common to find different items each time you go.

Spending a few bucks is a great way to support local farmers and entrepreneurs, and don’t be shy about asking them for suggestions for things to see and do while in town.

7. California’s Great America

There’s no shortage of theme parks in the Golden State, but there’s one clear choice for those visiting Santa Clara.

California’s Great America is located on Great America Parkway just outside of town. It features tons of rides, dining options, kid’s activities, and a water park that’s a huge draw during the hot summer months.

Though Great America can really draw a crowd during peak times when kids are enjoying their summer vacations, previous guests have noted that wait times for rides weren’t overly long.

Many families choose to spend an entire day on-site to avoid wasting valuable recreational time in the car.

8. Mission Santa Clara

Mission Santa Clara is one of the city’s premier historic sites, and it’s now conveniently located on the campus of Santa Clara University.

The mission was established by Franciscans in the 1770s to spread Christianity to the area’s Native American population.

Sadly, things didn’t go according to plan; due to several natural disasters, the mission was forced to move from its original site to where it is now.

Over the years, it was also run by the Jesuits. Though it’s no longer functioning in its original role, it now doubles as a museum and chapel that are open to visitors.

9. The Triton Museum of Art

Though guests tend to visit the Triton Museum of Art for the works in its collection, its stunning contemporary architecture usually makes a big impression as well.

The museum’s collection includes works from all over the country, but its emphasis is on pieces created by Bay Area artists using local people and scenery as inspiration.

The grounds also include a sprawling outdoor sculpture garden spread over nearly seven acres, and a home from the mid-1860s that’s among the most well-preserved examples of historic American architecture in the area.

The museum is located on Warburton Avenue, and most visitors spend a few hours on-site.

10. Santa Clara Players

The Santa Clara Players traces its roots all the way back to the early ‘60s, when a group of local performers began putting on small shows for the community.

Now nearly seven decades later, they’re still going strong. Their annual performances run the gamut from dramatic theater and mystery to satire and humor.

The players are part of a community theater group staffed by talented volunteers dedicated to providing high-quality, family-friendly entertainment at a reasonable cost.

They’re located on Don Avenue in Santa Clara and offer lots of volunteer opportunities for budding actors and stagehands.

11. Central Park

Featuring lots of wide-open spaces and massive swimming and community rec centers, Santa Clara’s Central Park is a go-to destination for activity minded visitors looking to make the most of their limited vacation time without traveling to more distant attractions.

The park is centrally located on Keily Boulevard, has ample parking, and features lots of outdoor amenities and recreational activity options.

From tennis and basketball to softball, lawn bowling, and a big playground, there’s really no excuse for getting bored while on-site. For those looking to spend a relaxing afternoon, there are a lake, built-in BBQs, and public restrooms.

12. The 49ers Museum

Even for those who won’t be in Santa Clara during the regular season, the 49ers stadium and museum are fun attractions worth visiting for sports-minded visitors.

The museum is located inside Levi’s Stadium and features nearly a dozen distinct galleries that are open to the public year-round.

It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to football, its exhibits touch on science, technology, and art in a way that engages and entertains young and old minds alike.

Most guests check out the introductory video in the visitor’s center before showing themselves through the impressive collection of trophies, balls, and Super Bowl memorabilia on display.

13. The Santa Clara Fire Museum

The Santa Clara Fire Department’s roots run all the way back to the 1850s when it was founded.

The museum is now located on Walsh Avenue in an unused training center behind the city’s new fire station.

It sports an impressive collection of equipment and historical memorabilia that give visitors unique insights into the lives of fire and rescue personnel in years past.

The museum’s highlights include a fully restored Model-T fire truck that served for two decades, beginning in the 1920s.

The knowledgeable local volunteer staff also offer regular programs geared at educating the public about fire safety and prevention issues.

14. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History

The Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History is run by a local historical society. It is housed in the depot of a now-defunct railroad on Railroad Avenue in Santa Clara.

Like many local historical attractions, the museum is staffed by local volunteers who love answering questions and showing first-time visitors around.

The museum’s exhibits include a variety of railroad equipment and memorabilia, including signals, safety equipment, and historical photographs dating back over 100 years.

The museum is regularly open to the public. It maintains an extensive library of books relating to railroad development and local history as well.

15. Voyager Coffee

Though it has only been around since 2016, Voyager Coffee’s owner and staff are dedicated to the noble pursuit of making their customers happy.

They do this largely by providing world-class coffee, but also by offering a comfortable space in which guests have opportunities to build relationships with like-minded customers.

Many of their coffees sport internationally influenced flavors, and they’re often infused with things like orange essence and cherry blossom water.

Don’t worry if you prefer your coffee straight-up, because they’ve got more traditional brews as well.

They offer fresh pastry and baked goods, tea, and other non-coffee drinks too.

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA):

• Levi's Stadium
• Ulistac Natural Area
• Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival
• The de Saisset Museum
• Intel Museum
• Santa Clara Farmers’ Market
• California's Great America
• Mission Santa Clara
• The Triton Museum of Art
• Santa Clara Players
• Central Park
• The 49ers Museum
• The Santa Clara Fire Museum
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12 Must-Visit Historic Sites In Santa Clara, California

Published: January 16, 2024

by Charissa Gudino

Santa Clara, California, is a city steeped in rich history, boasting a myriad of captivating historic sites that offer a glimpse into its storied past. From the iconic Mission Santa Clara de Asís, which dates back to the 18th century, to the fascinating Harris-Lass House Museum, a Victorian-era gem, the city is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Whether you’re drawn to the architectural splendor of historic buildings or eager to delve into the cultural heritage of the area, Santa Clara’s historic sites offer a captivating journey through time. Join us as we explore 12 must-visit historic sites in Santa Clara, each with its own unique story to tell.

The Winchester Mystery House is a Historic Architectural Wonder

The Winchester Mystery House is a fascinating mansion with a haunting history. Once the personal residence of Sarah Winchester, the widow of firearm magnate William Wirt Winchester, this sprawling estate is renowned for its perplexing design. With staircases that lead to ceilings, doors that open to walls, and windows overlooking other rooms, this architectural enigma has captivated visitors for decades. The mansion’s mystique and the rumors of it being haunted make it one of the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Explore the Santa Clara University Campus

Established in 1851, Santa Clara University is the oldest institution of higher learning in California. The university’s campus boasts a rich history and striking architecture, making it a must-visit site for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. The Mission Santa Clara de Asís, the university’s landmark mission-style building, stands as a testament to the region’s cultural heritage and is a key attraction among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California .

Discover the History of Mission Santa Clara de Asís

Mission Santa Clara de Asís, a historically significant site established in 1777, is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into California’s past. The mission’s iconic adobe architecture and serene gardens provide a tranquil setting for visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s history. With its deep roots in the founding and development of the area, Mission Santa Clara de Asís is an essential stop on the list of the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Step Back in Time at the Harris-Lass Historic Museum

The Harris-Lass Historic Museum, housed in a Victorian-era Italianate mansion, offers a compelling journey into the history of Santa Clara. Visitors can explore the well-preserved rooms and exhibits that showcase the lifestyle and artifacts of the late 19th century. The museum’s captivating displays and educational programs make it a valuable addition to the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Immerse Yourself in History at the Agnews Historic Cemetery

The Agnews Historic Cemetery, established in 1888, serves as the final resting place for many individuals with connections to the Agnews Developmental Center, a historic institution in Santa Clara. This serene and reflective site provides a poignant link to the region’s past and is a significant inclusion among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Experience the Innovation at Intel Museum

The Intel Museum offers a captivating exploration of the technological advancements and innovations that have shaped the world. Located at the Intel Corporation’s headquarters, this museum showcases the evolution of technology and the company’s groundbreaking achievements. As a site that celebrates the intersection of history and innovation, the Intel Museum is a standout attraction among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Delve into the Past at the Triton Museum of Art

The Triton Museum of Art, founded in 1965, houses a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artworks. With a focus on showcasing the cultural heritage and artistic expressions of the region, the museum provides a compelling avenue for visitors to connect with the area’s rich artistic legacy. Its role in preserving and presenting the cultural history of Santa Clara makes it an essential stop on the list of the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Visit the De Saisset Museum at Santa Clara University

The De Saisset Museum, located on the campus of Santa Clara University, offers an enriching exploration of art, history, and culture. With its extensive collection of artworks and artifacts, the museum provides a window into the diverse narratives and creative endeavors that have shaped the region. Its role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage solidifies its place among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Discover the Heritage Park Museum of Los Gatos

The Heritage Park Museum of Los Gatos, situated in the nearby town of Los Gatos, presents an immersive experience of the region’s history. The museum’s exhibits and preserved structures offer a compelling narrative of the area’s past, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical dynamics at play. Its significance in preserving the heritage of the region earns it a place among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Explore the Pacific Hotel and Fallon House Historic Site

The Pacific Hotel and Fallon House Historic Site, located in the neighboring city of San Jose, offers a captivating glimpse into the Victorian-era lifestyle and architecture. The well-preserved buildings and period furnishings transport visitors back in time, allowing them to appreciate the historical charm and elegance of the bygone era. As a site that contributes to the collective historical tapestry of the region, it rightfully claims its spot among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Uncover the History of the Ainsley House

The Ainsley House, an elegant 1925 Tudor Revival-style home located in Campbell, provides a window into the opulent lifestyle of the early 20th century. The meticulously preserved house and its lavish furnishings offer a glimpse into the affluent past of the region, allowing visitors to step into a world of refined elegance and historical grandeur. Its role in preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of the area cements its place among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

Experience the Heritage of the Winchester Historic District

The Winchester Historic District, encompassing the Winchester Ranch and other historically significant sites, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s heritage. With its diverse array of preserved structures and immersive historical experiences, the district provides a multifaceted journey through the past, offering visitors a deeper appreciation for the cultural and architectural evolution of the area. Its status as a hub of historical significance solidifies its inclusion among the 12 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Santa Clara, California.

With its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, Santa Clara, California, offers a plethora of captivating historic sites for visitors to explore. From the iconic Mission Santa Clara de Asís to the immersive experiences at the Triton Museum of Art, the city’s historical landmarks provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. Whether you’re interested in the early Spanish colonial era or the technological advancements of the 20th century, Santa Clara’s historic sites offer something for everyone. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through time in this vibrant and historically significant city.

Q: What is the best way to explore Santa Clara’s historic sites? A: The best way to explore Santa Clara’s historic sites is by planning a walking or driving tour. Many of the city’s historic landmarks are conveniently located near each other, allowing visitors to create their own itinerary and explore at their own pace.

Q: Are there guided tours available for these historic sites? A: Yes, several historic sites in Santa Clara offer guided tours led by knowledgeable docents who provide in-depth information about the significance and history of each location.

Q: Are these historic sites family-friendly? A: Absolutely! Many of the historic sites in Santa Clara offer engaging activities and exhibits suitable for visitors of all ages, making them perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.

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