Namakwa combines the unspoilt expanses of Namaqualand and the Karoo to form a region of exquisite natural beauty and contrast. The seemingly arid, semidesert soil hides huge reservoirs of mineral and floral wealth. This area falls in the Northern Cape region of South Africa and extends into Namibia.

Between July and September, the Namakwa region comes alive with an amazing spread of flowers, known in South Africa as the Namaqualand flower season. The splendour of the flowers, depends heavily on a good pre-season rainfall.

Many unique and endangered plant species are found in this biodiversity hotspot of the Karoo. It contains more than 6 000 plant species, 250 species of birds, 78 species of mammals, 132 species of reptiles and amphibians and an unknown number of insects, making it the world's most diverse, arid environment. More than 40% of these species are found nowhere else on Earth. The Namaqualand flowers are a must see if you are travelling to South Africa in the spring time.

This magnificent floral display can continue until November but nature has no guarantees. There are many other reasons to visit the area so you may miss the flowers but you will gain so much by experiencing adventure on the river rapids, treks through the unique mountain desert or exploring a working diamond mine or deserted copper plant. The mountains, rivers, valleys and coastline are criss-crossed by hiking, biking, canoe and 4x4 trails.

The Namaqua National Park is home to the world's largest forests of quiver trees which get their name from the San people who used the trees to make their quivers. These aloe grow to approximately 4 metres and live for up to 400 years.