Koringkorrelbaai, Namaqua National Park

“The coastal section looks different every year – there’s isn’t a colour in the veld that you won’t see here,” says SANParks section ranger Piet Schreuder. Of the nine campsites in that coastal section, Koringkorrelbaai, about 24 km north of the Groenrivier entrance near Garies, is probably the best known. This is where Olympic boxer and Nazi sympathiser Robey Leibbrandt came ashore in 1941, with plans to overthrow the South African government. The rocky bay hasn’t changed much since then and it’s the definition of “pristine”. Where can I see flowers? During the last week of August and early in September, you should see orange Jordaaniella spongiosa and white Lampranthus suavissimus in abundance. Walk around the campsite and along the bay, or drive south along the coast for about 7 km to Kwass se Baai – also a good flower spot. There’s a new 21 km circular route at the seaside: Drive north from Koringkorrelbaai towards Boulder Bay and follow the route markers. Look for red, yellow and white vygies along the way. Facilities: The coastal section of the Namaqua National Park is only accessible by 4x4. There are five stands at Koringkorrelbaai (max six people per stand) that share three eco toilets. Each stand has a wind shelter and braai facilities (no power). There’s firewood available at the Groenrivier park entrance, but they sometimes run out during flower season so bring your own just in case. Rates: Daily conservation fee R37 per person; free with a Wild card. Camping from R135 per night. How to get there: Garies is about 450 km north of Cape Town via the N7. From there, take the Groenriviermond Road for 73 km to the park entrance. GPS: S30.82895 E17.57590 (park office); S30.65506 E17.46273 (Koringkorrelbaai) Contact: 012 428 9111 (bookings); 027 672 1948 (office); sanparks.org – Erns Grundling

Note: Go for an early morning walk and look for Heaviside’s dolphins playing in the surf.