THE FIVE Northern Cape tourism routes are specifically packaged to give visitors an easy do-ityourself option to explore the Province. Incredible year-round experiences coupled with warm hospitality, the peace and tranquillity offered by off-the-beaten tr

typical Northern Cape fare and produce available from coffee shops, road stalls and restaurants as well as wine tasting at cellars along the route.

Accommodation ranges from luxurious guest houses to farm and community stay-overs. THE RICHTERSVELD is South Africa’s only mountain desert and the route travels along rugged gravel roads to quaint towns such as Eksteensfontein, Sendelingsdrift, Lekkersing, Kuboes and Sandrift.

The more challenging 4x4 routes in the /Ai/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park or in the Richtersveld World Heritage Area are best explored in a well-equipped SUV or bakkie. Pack comfortable hiking boots, extra water and guidebooks and set out along the 600km Namaqua Eco 4x4 Route.

The Orange River presents a more leisurely pace with river rafting and the best wilderness fly-fishing in South Africa, while the entire Richtersveld is a mountain biker’s dream.

Follow in the footsteps of a traditional goat herder and learn about the lives of the nomads. In the villages, the locals will entertain guests with storytelling and traditional Nama step dancing upon request. SEPTEMBER is the time to explore this route amidst the floral splendour. Experience the floral explosion turning this barren veld into a kaleidoscope of colour. The route includes hidden gems like Garies, Kamieskroon, Hondeklip Bay, Koiingnaas and Kleinzee.

Dozens of adventure and leisure options are available, including the Namaqua National Park, nature reserves, hidden coastal hamlets and some of the most remote hiking and 4x4 trails imaginable.

Go succulent sleuthing with a botanical guide, hike the Springbok Klipkoppie for a dose of Anglo-Boer War history, enjoy stargazing, explore the countless shipwrecks along the coast line take in breath-taking scenes of the Atlantic Ocean with sightings of dolphins and whales combined with great vistas of