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Augrabies Falls National Park

All-in-One

This page displays all information relevant to this park/camp, except the following:

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.

Areas of special interest include:

The Falls: As the Orange River approaches Augrabies Falls it divides itself into numerous channels before cascading down the 56 meter high waterfall. The river then continues its path through an 18 kilometer gorge. The sight and sound of the power of the water will not be easily forgotten.

Moon Rock: A massive exfoliation dome or “whaleback” which is a prominent landmark of Augrabies Falls. Walking to the summit will give one of the best views of the park and its surroundings.

Swart Rante: These foreboding black hills are another distinct landmark in Augrabies. Quartz-poor, these igneous rocks seem to form a natural border between the harsh environment of the gorge area and a more fertile area on the other side. The contrast between the two landscapes can best be seen from the top of Swart Rante.

Oranjekom & Ararat: These viewpoints give visitors the best opportunity to observe the massive gorge area as well as the wildlife that makes it their home. Essential to spot are the nesting Verreaux’s (Black) Eagles, which prey on the abundant rock hyrax populations, as well as the Cape clawless otter which are sometimes seen below in the river in the morning or late afternoon.

Echo Corner: The furthest view point from the Rest Camp, the road to Echo Corner takes you through some of the park’s most stunning scenery. As the name implies a long-lasting echo can be produced. This is also the starting point for the Gariep 3-In-1 Adventure

5 Things To Seek

  • Rock hyrax (dassie)
  • Broadley’s Flat Lizard
  • Klipspringer
  • Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle
  • African Fish Eagle

Contact Information

For reservations and availability, please e-mail Central Reservations or phone them on +27 (0)12 428 9111

For any other enquiries, e-mail Augrabies National Park or phone us on the following numbers: Park Tel: +27 (0)54 452 9200
Fax: +27 (0)54 451 5003

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Accommodation

Accommodation Types

Camp sites

  • Caravan and camping sites in a shaded area.
  • A maximum of six persons, one caravan/tent and one vehicle or one autovilla permitted per site.
  • Communal camp kitchen with two-plated stoves, and sinks, communal ablution facilities, laundry and ironing room.
  • All sites have power points.
  • Please follow the link for more information on the unit, pictures and availability.

Chalets (CH2B)

Chalets (CH2)

Family Cottages (FA4S)

Family Cottages (FA4D)

Chalets (CH2/4)

Please follow the link for more information on the unit, pictures and availability.

Chalets (CH2/4VD)

Please follow the link for more information on the unit, pictures and availability.

Chalets CH2/4V

Please follow the link for more information on the unit, pictures and availability.

General Information

Two three-bedded bungalows have been adapted for persons with mobility impairments.

To view the accommodation prices, refer to Tariffs

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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 Trail: 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
  • Conference Facilities

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Natural and Cultural History

A Brief History of the Park

The name Augrabies was given to the Water Fall by a Swede, Hendrik Jakob Wikar, when he passed there in 1799. The name is derived from the Nama word as the Khoi people would refer to “Aukoerebis” meaning the "Place of Great Noise." This refers to the Orange River water thundering its way down the 56 m spectacular main Water Fall.

In 1954 the Upington Publicity Association requested the National Parks Board to proclaim the water fall a national park. After the Minister of Lands approved the Park in principle in 1955, the Department of Water Affairs objected to the proclamation of a national park. After a series of negotiations, Augrabies Falls National Park was eventually proclaimed on 5 August 1966. The park currently consists of 55 383 hectares. The establishment was based on the following objectives:
-To conserve and restore the biotic diversity of the Orange River Broken Veld with its associated flora and fauna
-To maintain the Augrabies Water Fall and its surroundings in an unspoilt state
-To provide opportunities for Environmental Education and
-To provide opportunities for research of the fascinating flora and fauna."

The early Stone Age

The ancestors of modern history have inhabited the area surrounding the Orange River since the Early Stone Age. During this time, there is evidence that early man had developed weapons for hunting animal like hippopotamus. They knew to establish themselves near good water sources like the Orange River. During the Middle Stone Age man had created more formal work tools and began to utilise fire. The Late Stone Age, which dates back 22 000 years, is characterized by tools that are smaller from the previous periods. The most prolific archaeological features are the stone cairns or graves from the later Stone Age. Excavations have shown that not all the cairns contains human skeletal remains.

Cultural

The area is inhabited by the Nama People who over the centuries have managed to adapt to the harsh conditions of the area.

A traditional expression from this area is that the traditional domed huts known as ‘matjieshuise’ and a direct translation would be ‘mat houses’. These houses are extremely well suited for the hot climate in this area. During the summer, the stems and culms from which the mats are mad up of shrink, allowing gaps to appear. This results in a breeze being able to flow through and cool the hut down. In winter the stems expand keeping out the cold winds and rain.

Traditional Food

Many delicacies unique to this area may be enjoyed here, like homegrown raisins and dried fruit. Traditional dishes like “puff adders” (named after the snake); are intestines with the fatty portion inward, stuffed with minced liver and skilpadje (tortoise) stomach net fat wrapped around a small piece of liver are always popular.

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Park Map

Click on the map to view enlarged.

Camp Map

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Park Map

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tariffs

Conservation Fees for 1 November 2008 to 31 August 2009

 

South African Citizens and Residents (with ID)

R19 per person, per day

SADC Nationals (with passport)

R38 per person, per day
R19 per child, per day

Standard Conservation Fee

R76 per adult, per day
R38 per child, per day

 

Tariffs for 1 November 2008 to 31 August 2009
Unit type
No. of units
Rate
Base
Max. beds
Add. adult
Add. child

40

R130

1-2

6 people per site

R42

R21

24

R525

1-2

2 single beds and 1 double sleeper couch

R124

R62

6

R585

1-2

2 single beds and 1 double sleeper couch

R124

R62

10

R585

1-2

1 double bed and 1 double sleeper couch

R124

R62

Chalet CH2

8

R525

1-2

2 single beds

n/a

n/a

Chalet CH2Z (bathroom with shower)(units accessible to the mobility challenged)

2

R525

1-2

2 single beds

n/a

n/a

Family Cottage FA4D

6

R750

1-2

1 double and 2 single beds + 1 double sleeper couch

R124

R62

Family Cottage FA4S

3

R650

1-2

4 single beds + 1 double sleeper couch

R124

R62

Eco Adventures and Activities

Tariffs for 1 November 2008 to 31 August 2009

Park

Trail

People

Duration

Tariff per person

Augrabies

Klipspringer Hiking Trail (pdf)

2min/12max

2 overnight stops

R140 (adults and children)

 

Gariep 3 in 1 Eco-Adventure

2min/8max

4-5 hours

R180 adults/R90 children

 

Night Drives

4min/20max

1-2 hours

R100 adults/R50 children

 

Self Drive Game Drive

 

5-6 hours

free

 

Dassie Nature Trail (pdf)

 

2-3 hours

free

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General Information

Day Visitors

Day visitors are welcome and there are facilities to cater for them.

Contact Information

For reservations and availability, please e-mail Central Reservations or phone them on +27 (0)12 428 9111

For any other enquiries, e-mail Augrabies Falls National Park or phone us on the following numbers:

Park Tel: +27 (0)54 452 9200
Fax: +27 (0)54 451 5003

Handy Hints

  • Remember to bring a hat, walking shoes, sun block, camera, binoculars and wildlife reference books.
  • Hikers on day and overnight trails must always carry sufficient water.
  • Take cool or light clothing for summer and warm for winter – area prone to sudden weather changes.

Office Hours

07:00 to 19:00

Take Note

  • Pets are not allowed in a National Park
  • Firearms must be declared and sealed on arrival. Seals will be broken at Reception upon departure.
  • Malaria prophylactics and mosquito repellents are a good precaution. Malaria has been historically recorded in the area but is not very prevalent. Please consult your chemist/doctor to alleviate any concerns.
  • Vehicle repairs, medical services, post office and police: Kakamas (40 km).
  • Shoes must be worn on summer evenings to avoid scorpion stings.
  • Motorcycles, bicycles, roller blades and skateboards are not allowed.

Gate Hours

07:00 – 18:30

Please note that although the gate is manned 24 hours a day, you need to make prior arrangements with the park if you plan to arrive after 18.30 or wish to leave before 07:00.

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How to get there

Augrabies Falls is located in a remote area of the expansive Northern Cape Province. Despite this many tourists are welcomed at the park every year due to its central location along the N14 highway which connects the north-eastern provinces with the west coast region. The park is also a favoured stop-over for travelers coming to or from the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

By Air

The closest national airport is located in Upington, 120km from Augrabies Falls NP. There are daily links between Upington, Cape Town and Johannesburg. Several hire care agencies are located at the airport and the city centre. There is a private landing strip only a few kilometers from the park: please contact Augrabies Falls if you require more information.

By Road

From Cape Town take the N7 north to Springbok. When you arrive in Springbok turn onto the N14 to Kakamas and Upington. About 10km before Kakamas turn left into the R359, the park will be signposted. From this point onwards you will reach the park after driving another 39km. The entrance to the park will be signposted.

From Johannesburg take the N14 through the North-West Province to Kuruman and then onwards to Upington. From Upington keep on the N14 towards Kakamas and once you reach the centre of town the park will be signposted. Keep on the N14 when passing through Kakamas and after 10km turn left on the R359. From this point onwards you will reach the park after driving another 39km. The entrance to the park will be signposted.

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Climate

Augrabies is situated in a semi-arid region, which implies low annual rainfall and extreme variations of temperatures.

In the peak summer months (January / February) the average daytime temperature is 41°C, but highs of 46°C have been recorded. During these months the high temperatures are further aggravated by the many rocks where temperatures can reach up to 70°C during the day. Summer nights are usually more pleasant but temperatures will remain high at around 25°C.

During winter months the average daytime temperature often hovers around 20°C but lower temperatures are a possibility. Winter nights average around 0°C although the temperature drops to -5° occasionally.

Autumn and spring are characterized by pleasant, moderate temperatures.

The average annual rainfall in the park is 107mm, with most rains occurring between November and April. Summer rain usually falls in short, heavy bursts, accompanied by spectacular thunderstorms and strong winds. Winter rains are gentle and last 1-3 days resulting in a flower paradise.

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Birding in Augrabies Falls National Park

Both Black Stork and Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle breed in the park. Other species of interest that occur include: Pygmy Falcon, Pale Chanting Goshawk, Rosy-faced Lovebird, Namaqua Warbler, Black-chested Prinia, Cinnamon-breasted Warbler, Mountain Wheatear (Chat), Tractrac and Karoo Chat, Marico, Chat and Fairy Flycatcher and Great Sparrow. There is also an isolated western population of Double-banded Sandgrouse in addition to Namaqua Sandgrouse.

The rest-camp is probably the most rewarding place in the park to see birds, as many species are attracted to the foliage of the camp. Orange River White-eye (recently separated from Cape White-eye ), Red-eyed Bulbul, Red-headed Finch, Pale-winged Starling and Karoo Scrub Robin will all be among the more prominent species. Other birds to look out for here include the lovebirds, Golden-tailed Woodpecker, Acacia Pied Barbet, Ashy Tit, Pririt Batis and Dusky Sunbird.

The area around the gorge is the place to look for the storks and eagles. Keep an eye out too for Peregrine Falcon and Rock Kestrel, while Black and Alpine Swift and Rock and Brown-throated Martin should be seen.

Echo Corner is a good place to look for Cinnamon-breasted Warbler, while the parks many rock koppies could produce Mountain Wheatear (Chat), Short-toed Rock-Thrush and Cape Bunting .

In more open country, away from the river, search for Ludwig’s Bustard, Double-banded Courser and several lark species.

Birding

  1. The camp area is a good place to start birding, with Rosy-faced Lovebird, Golden-tailed Woodpecker, Acacia Pied Barbet, Ashy Tit, African Red-eyed Bulbul, Namaqua Warbler, Black-chested Prinia, Pririt Batis, Pale-winged Starling, Dusky Sunbird and the beautiful Orange River White-eye, all occurring in the acacia bush and riverine vegetation.
  2. The gorge just below the camp, in which the orange river forms the actual Augrabies Falls, supports breeding Black Stork, Verreaux's Eagle and Peregrine Falcon, as well as huge mixed flocks of aerial feeders such as Alpine Swift, African Black Swift, Brown-throated Martin and Rock Martin.
  3. Cinnamon-breasted Warbler, Short-toed Rock-Thrush and Mountain Wheatear occur on the rocky koppies found on the drives. A good spot to try for Cinnamon-breasted Warbler is Echo Corner.
  4. Other typical karoo species occurring in the open arid country away from the river include Ludwig's Bustard, Double-banded Courser, Stark's Lark, Spike-heeled Lark, Karoo Long-billed Lark, Grey-backed Sparrowlark, Black-eared Sparrowlark, Rufous-eared Warbler and Chat Flycatcher.

(Compiled by Chris Patton)

(For more birding information and park bird checklist, go to Information for Birders)

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Mammals

Nocturnal life in Augrabies Falls is abundant, especially during the warm summer months, and many animals take the opportunity to wander and feed during the cooler nights. Typical night-time hunters such as the African wild cat, bat-eared fox, black footed cat, free-tailed bat, aardwolf and the small spotted genet will often be spotted during night drives in the park. Additionally, many antelope species as well as the giraffe are often active during the night, making an encounter even more special. The stealthiest predator in the park, the leopard, is rarely seen but a sighting remains an ever present possibility.

Temperature fluctuations in the region have resulted in unique adaptations in animals. The animals in Augrabies can survive in extreme high and low temperatures. Smaller animals make use of whatever shade is available as well as burrows, rock crevices and fallen trees. The types of animals that have made these adaptations are the slender mongoose, the yellow mongoose, and rock dassies. An interesting mammal found in Augrabies is the cape clawless otter; their presence in the park indicates that the river ecosystem is relatively healthy.

The giraffes found in Augrabies are lighter in colour than those found in the regions of the east, as a counter measure for the extreme heat. One of the most often seen antelope is the klipspringer, which are often seen in pairs. Other antelope found in the park are steenbok, springbok, gemsbok, kudu and eland.

Predators in Augrabies come in the form of leopard, black backed jackals, caracal, the bat eared fox, and the African wild cat, and the elusive leopard.

Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra (Equus Hartmannae) is also present in the park and due to their endangered status are closely monitored by the park rangers.

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Vegetation

Augrabies is the largest conservation area (51 430 ha) within the Orange River Broken Veld vegetation type. The most characteristic plant in the park is the giant aloe called quiver tree (kokerboom), Aloe dichotoma. The quiver tree is perfectly adapted to the dry desert and semi-desert areas on the rocky hills, the extreme temperatures and the infertile soil. It grows three to five metres high. The tree gets its name from the fact that the San used the soft branches to make quivers for their arrows. The eye-catching silhouette of the quiver tree is typical of the Northern Cape landscape. The trees flower a canary-yellow in the winter. Swarms of birds and locusts are attracted to their copious nectar, and baboons tear the flowers apart to get the sweet liquor.

Nearly 70 different species of grass, shrubs, herbs and trees can be found in Augrabies Falls NP. A full list of all these can be found at the reception desk.

The majestic Camel thorn (Acacia erioloba) is a dominant tree species in the region, gorwing to a height of up to 15m with many animals relying on this tree for both food and shade. When eaten, the grey seed pods exude a strange smell and result in a rank taste in the meat of animals that feed on them. The Camel thorn has a wide variety of medicinal uses: its bark is grinded into a powder and used to ease headaches, the gum is taken with warm water and used against flu and even its roots are used against coughing. Traditionally, the Khoi-San people used to burn the wood to use the ashes as facial decoration for the women; in Tswana culture a string is made from the seedpods and rapped around the feet for a traditional dance; and finally the seeds can be used as a substitute for coffee.

The Sweet thorn tree (Acacia karroo) is the most widely distributed of all thorn trees in South Africa, and occurs mainly along rivers and drainage lines. The growth form is highly variable from region to region, so that different geographical growth forms can be distinguished; fortunately the yellow round flowers (inflorescences) and the pods stay the same. Pairs of large white thorns are usually present. Medicinally its gum, being edible, has been used against sores in the mouth and to stop bleeding; its leaves and bark is used to treat diarrhea. As with the Camel thorn, the seeds can be used as a substitute for coffee; the gum of tree is also used as a floor polish.

Another tree that does very well in the arid region is the Shepherd’s tree (Boscia albitrunca), known colloquially as ‘Witgat”, this is an evergreen tree which grows to a height of 7m and has a rounded shape. This tree is widespread, except along rivers and pans, and is an important source of food for browsers. A unique feature of the shepherd’s tree is its ability to lower the ground temperature beneath its lower branches from 70°C to a mere 21°C. This is due to the umbrella-shape as well as the white trunk of its branches which provide welcome shade for animals and humans alike. It also has many uses: its leaves are used to treat infection and the green fruits to treat epilepsy; traditionally it has also been used to make coffee (roots), porridge (roots) and its fruits are edible and can be either cooked, pickled or eaten raw.

Clearly visible along the Orange river gorge is the Namaqua fig (Ficus cordata). The Northern Cape variety of this conspicuous “rock-splitter” is characterized by many striking, large individual trees along the rocky areas of the park. Its shiny, leathery leaves and greyish-white bark are visible from afar. Leaves of this tree contain a milky latex, making them unsuitable as a food source for wildlife. The bark is used for tanning and dyeing of hides, apparently giving leather a favoured red colour.

The Jacket-plum tree (Pappea capensis) with its rounded bright red plum covered in a shiny, furry green capsule is normally associated with the drainage lines in the park. The bright red, jelly-like seeds are edible, with a delicious sweet-sourish taste, and are collected to make jam, jelly or vinegar. The lower branches are browsed extensively by game. Traditionally, the seed and bark of this tree were used for tanning purposes. The mixture of bark and water is then applied on the meat side of the hide. The seed oil of this tree has been used as gun oil and for making soap.

Other plants which can be easily spotted in the vicinity of the restcamp are Kraalaalwyn (Aloe claviflora), Desert broom (Sisyndite spartea), Namaqua porkbush (Ceraria namaquensis), Rae Bushman grass (Stipagrostis hochstetteriana) and Driedoring (Rhigozum trichototum).

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People with disabilities

The park’s rest camp has two accessible bungalows, equipped with ramp entrance and appropriate ablution facilities (sit-down shower). The reception complex shop, cafeteria, tea area and information displays are all accessible, but the restaurant is upstairs. There is an accessible toilet at the public toilet block. There is also a swimming pool in the camp, but no assisting rails to get in and out are present.

The park’s highlight, the falls, can be viewed from one wheelchair accessible walkway and platform, but due to the rough terrian along the trail to the walkway, most wheelchair users will require assistance. The presence of sand flies (muggies) can be a nuisance.

Elsewhere in the park, the viewpoints ar not particularly accessible for a person in a wheelchair.

(Please see additional information on Wheelchair Accessibility)

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