Augrabies Falls National Park

Few sights are as awesome or a sound as deafening as water thundering down the 56-m Augrabies Waterfall when the Orange River is in full flood. The Khoi 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. Picturesque names such as Moon Rock, Ararat and Echo Corner are descriptive of this rocky region. Klipspringer and kokerboom (quiver trees) stand in stark silhouette against the African sky, silent sentinels in a strangely unique environment where only those that are able to adapt ultimately survive. The 55 383 hectares on both the northern and southern sides of the Orange River provide sanctuary to a diversity of species, from the very smallest succulents, birds and reptiles to springbok, gemsbok and giraffe.

Activities
Waterfall viewpoints walking distance from the restaurant complex.
Game viewing at leisure using own vehicle.
Klipspringer Hiking Trail: 3 days, 2 nights and a maximum of 12 persons per group, and minimum of 2 persons per group. Advance booking essential. Closed October to March due to heat. Tariffs.
Dassie Nature Trails: This 5k self-guided hiking trail leads you on a circular route starting at the Rest Camp, following along the gorge to Arrow Point, then heading out into the veld by the Potholes and Moonrock before heading back to the Rest Camp. Information brochures which include a map and information about various points along the trail are available at reception.
Arrow Point (one hour)
Potholes (one hour)
Moon Rock (one hour).
Night drives: minimum 4 persons required to secure, subject to availability.
Gariep 3-in-1 Adventure: This is a three-part adventure comprising canoeing for 3 km down the mighty Orange River, walking for 4 km and returning to camp by mountain bike (11 km). Contact the park with enquiries and for reservations.
Mountainbikes are allowed inside the park provided cyclists remain on the official roads. Bikes can be rented at the park but daily availability may vary and it is advisable to bring your own mountainbikes.
The Wilderness Road is 94km long and will take approximately 6 hours to complete in a 4x4 vehicle. There is a scenic picnic spot halfway along the road with ablution and braai facilities.
Several panoramic viewpoints can be visited inside the park, all of which give stunning vistas of the park, the gorge and the Orange River. These points also provide great opportunities to spot our local birdlife.

Facilities
Picnic area for Day Visitors with ablution and barbecue facilities, and a swimming pool.
Shop, Shibula Restaurant.
Public telephones, fuel.
Three swimming pools for residents.
Information on birds, reptile and mammal species found in the park, is available at reception on request.

Visit www.sanparks.org for more info.

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