Augrabies Falls National Park: Experience the 'Place of Great Noise' in South Africa

Known as 'Aukoerebis' or 'Place of Great Noise' by the Khoi people, the Augrabies Waterfall in the Augrabies Falls National Park is a sight to behold when the Orange River is in full flood. The waterfall thunders down 56m into the Orange River Gorge, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Spanning 55,383 hectares on both sides of the Orange River, the park is a sanctuary for a wide range of species. From tiny succulents, birds, and reptiles to larger animals like springbok, gemsbok, giraffe, and the endangered Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra, the park is a biodiversity hotspot.

The region's temperature fluctuations have led to unique adaptations in its wildlife. For instance, giraffes here are lighter in color than their eastern counterparts to counter the extreme heat. Predators in the park include leopards, black-backed jackals, caracals, bat-eared foxes, and the African wild cat.

The park's most characteristic plant is the quiver tree (kokerboom), named so because the San used its soft branches to make quivers for their arrows. The park is also home to the Nama people, who have adapted to the harsh conditions over centuries.

The park captures the rugged beauty of the Northern Cape, with landmarks like Moon Rock, a massive exfoliation dome offering stunning views, and Swart Rante, black hills forming a natural border between the gorge area and a more fertile region.

Viewpoints from Oranjekom and Ararat offer opportunities to observe the gorge and wildlife. Echo Corner, the furthest from the rest camp, offers some of the park’s most stunning scenery. Activities in the park include game drives, hikes, mountain biking, and a 4x4 trail.

The park is also known for alluvial diamond deposits along the Orange River, with legends stating that the largest cache of diamonds lies at the foot of the waterfall.