Overview
Take a trip to Northern Cape on your South Africa Vacation
Situated in the northwest corner of South Africa, the Northern Cape Province was once part of the vast Cape Province. After the elections of 1994 boundaries were redrawn and the Cape Province was split into three: the Western, Eastern and Northern Capes. Today the province is the largest and most sparsely populated in the country on South Africa tours.
The Northern Cape is rich in early history and is known for its Stone Age archaeological heritage. There are many rock art sites, usually found on hilltops, slopes and rock outcrops that showcase examples of Bushman art. The modern history of the province began in 1866 when the first diamond was discovered in what is now the capital city, Kimberley.
By 1871 a diamond rush hit the region and the world-famous Kimberley mine was established. It was here that Cecil Rhodes made his fortune and it is where the roots of the De Beers Company can be traced. Today Kimberley is known as a “living museum” as many of the old shops and restaurants from early diamond digging days remain.
Most of the province lies south of the Orange River and is made up of desert and semi-desert landscapes. Despite this, the area of Namaqualand becomes a blanket of beautiful wildflowers between August and September making it a popular spot amongst tourists on a South African vacation.
The Northern Cape is home to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park which is one of the largest nature conservations in Southern Africa and is one of the largest protected ecosystems in the world.
Most of the province lies south of the Orange River and is made up of desert and semi-desert landscapes. Despite this, the area of Namaqualand becomes a blanket of beautiful wildflowers between August and September making it a popular spot amongst tourists on a South African vacation.
The Northern Cape is home to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park which is one of the largest nature conservations in Southern Africa and is one of the largest protected ecosystems in the world.
At a Glance
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Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, EnglishCurrency
South African Rand (ZAR)What do the experts say?
Skip the more commercial wineries and visit artisanal producers—you’ll find sparkling wines and small-batch reds that are absolutely world-class.
Djembe drumming at GOLD in Cape Town is an immersive African experience through their 14-dish food safari and unique live entertainment.
The game viewing in Kruger and Eastern Cape always draws me back—it’s truly superb.
South Africans are famously warm—when you’re new in town, you're often invited to a braai, our way of welcoming people through food.
South Africa is a wonderful starting point for Africa. It's got some of the top cities in the world, stunning food and wine, and exceptional value for money.
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