Kimberley - South Africa’s largest province, and least populated, is larger than Germany.
To compare the two, the European country has a population density of 226 people per square kilometre while the Northern Cape boasts only three. With endless arid landscape between towns, it can be a challenge to take in all the sights and sounds of the province. What travellers to the area need to consider is booking into strategic locations to ensure they’re able to see all
Here are five places to stay to see the entire province:
Take in the sea breeze and flower show
Port Nolloth is the gateway town to the Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, which spans into Namibia. The Beach Cottage, a fantastically cosy accommodation option, is situated right on the beachfront. The West Coast is not only a great place to stay, but also a great location from which to explore the Northern Cape. Visitors can easily access the park, can view the spectacular Namaqualand flower show from June to September, and experience the beauty of the area’s pristine beaches.
See all the stars of the Northern Cape
The coldest place in South Africa (with annual snow fall), and one of the best places in the world to stargaze, Sutherland is truly a unique destination.
Making the best of the remote location the, Middelfontein Farm is a kilometre outside of town that offers its own stargazing sessions for guests. Also just outside of town is SALT (Southern African Large Telescope), which houses the largest single optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere.If you time your visit right the town transforms into a true winter wonderland, as it is one of a few places South Africans can experience a white winter.
Wine tours along the Orange River
The Western Cape winelands often take the spotlight when it comes to South African-produced wines. But there are wine farms all along the Orange River.
At the epicentre of this is The Moon River Guest House in the town of Upington. The lodge offers many activities and is positioned right on the riverbank. With quick access to the Augrabies National Park, setting up base in the town will allow any visitor to take in all the area has to offer.
Visit the city that sparkles
Steeped in history, the capital of the province is a must see. With working tramlines, museums and tours of working mines there is plenty to see and do in Kimberley.
If you’re looking for a central location to explore the city there’s no better place to rest your head at than the Hadida Guest House. Within walking distance of the Big Hole, you can easily stroll from spot to spot.
The oasis of the Kalahari
Bordering on the fringes of the north-eastern part of the Northern Cape, Kuruman and its surrounding areas has a lot to offer visitors. Said to be “the fountain of Christianity” in Africa, the Moffat Mission Station is where the Bible was first translated into Setswana. Down the road from this landmark is the Dream Lodge. Recently opened by motivational speaker Godfrey Madanhire, the lodge offers motivational workshops for individuals and teams. When not busy with personal development, situated in the town is The Eye of Kuruman - the largest natural spring in the Southern Hemisphere, and the main reason for the town’s nickname “The Oasis of the Kalahari”.
Adapted from a press release for IOL