Augrabies Falls National Park

In northwestern South Africa, near the border with Namibia, lies an immense natural wonder hidden in the arid Kalahari Desert: Augrabies Falls National Park. The park gets its name from the Augrabies Falls, which plunge nearly 60 meters down an 18-km-long, narrow gorge of pink granite rocks here. The Bushmen gave the falls their name: Augrabies means "place of much noise. Especially at the end of summer - in the southern hemisphere this is March/April - the waterfall lives up to its name; the churning river plunges down with such force that the sound is deafening.

While the waterfalls and gorge of Augrabies Falls National Park are already impressive, the park itself is perhaps even more fascinating. The semi-desert along the Orange River is characterized by a truly unique ecosystem with thousands of species of plants and animals that live only in this zone. The vegetation consists mainly of succulents and organisms that can survive with sea fog and minimal rainfall. Take for example the striking tubular tree: it seems to grow straight out of the rocky soil and collects water in the trunk with its superficial root system. As for wildlife, 47 species live in the park, including the endangered black rhino, but it is not often seen. What you are likely to see here include cliff jumpers, cliff badgers, springboks, chacma baboons, green meerkats and - with any luck - aardwolves. Many bird species have also found their home here, including falcons, hens, larks, buzzards, canaries, finches and owls. Very special! In the park you can hike endlessly. At Moonrock you have a magnificent view of the park and if you want to look for Verraux eagles you will make the best chances at Ararat. Or rent a canoe and explore the park from the water.