Proclaimed in 1966, the Augrabies Falls National Park spans approximately 500km², safeguarding the region where the Orange River transitions from a broad, slow-moving waterway across sandy soils to a swift river that carves through ancient granite formations. During the peak flood season from February to April, the falls are truly breathtaking, and the sound can be overwhelming. This is reflected in the name given by the local Khoi people, who referred to it as ‘Aukoerebis’ in their Nama language, translating to ‘Place of Great Noise’.
In the eastern section of the national park, the Orange River creates a network of small, interconnected channels before plunging over a waterfall that stands around 90m tall (featuring a 56m free-fall). It is regarded as one of the five largest in the world! Below these falls, the river meanders through a narrow, strikingly beautiful 18m gorge.
What to see in Augrabies Falls National Park
Plant life
The vegetation of Augrabies is resilient, as it exists in a very arid, nearly desert-like environment. Here, succulents, aloes, and acacias thrive alongside the shepherd’s tree, wild tamarisk, and the Namaqua fig. A notable aspect of the park is the Kokerboom (or quiver) trees, which frequently stand out in sharp silhouette against the hills.
Birds
Augrabies Falls National Park serves as an excellent location for bird-watching. Particularly noteworthy are the black storks and Verreaux’s eagles, both of which breed in the park, along with pygmy falcons. In the Kalahari to the north, the pale chanting goshawk stands out as one of the more prevalent raptors, while the flocks of Namaqua sandgrouse continue to impress with their early-morning journeys to watering holes. The region surrounding the gorge offers intriguing sights; be on the lookout for peregrine and lanner falcons, as well as rock kestrels.
Wildlife
Augrabies is home to a diverse array of wildlife, featuring at least 46 species of mammals and 186 species of birds, along with various reptiles. Many show adaptations to the significant temperature variations in the area, including smaller animals such as slender mongooses, yellow mongooses, and rock dassies. These creatures make use of the limited shade available, finding refuge in burrows, rock crevices, and under fallen trees. It is noteworthy to see that a population of Cape clawless otters exists at Augrabies, suggesting that the river ecosystem is in good condition.
At Augrabies, one can find larger mammals such as steenbok, springbok, gemsbok, kudu, eland, and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra (Equus Hartmannae). The giraffe located at Augrabies is reported to have a lighter coloration compared to those in the eastern regions, purportedly as an adaptation to the intense heat. The klipspringer is one of the most frequently encountered antelope, often spotted in pairs leaping across the rocks by observant hikers. In Augrabies, the primary mammalian predators include black-backed jackals, caracals, bat-eared foxes, African wild cats, and a rare population of leopards.
One reptile stands out in this region: Broadley’s flat lizard, commonly referred to as the Augrabies flat lizard, is unique to this area. It is found exclusively in a region that lies within approximately 100km of the falls. Don’t think it’s rare, though: you can expect numerous sightings at nearly every viewpoint around the falls on warm days, when the vividly colored males engage in sparring and dancing for dominance.
What to do in
Hiking
There are primarily two trails, including:
Klipspringer Hiking Trail (35.8 km)
The Klipspringer Hiking Trail offers a three-day hiking experience. The initial day covers a distance of 14.4km; the following day spans 9.9km, and the final day measures 11.5km. The first day may be the longest, but the second day is likely the most challenging, whereas the third day tends to be the easiest. Given the challenging nature of the hike, it is essential to prepare thoroughly for a demanding journey. Groups must consist of at least two individuals and no more than twelve.
It is crucial to make reservations ahead of time.
Dassie Interpretative Trail
This 8 km self-guided hiking trail takes you on a circular journey, beginning at the Rest Camp, traversing the gorge to Arrow Point, continuing to Moonrock, and then returning to the Rest Camp. A map can be obtained at the reception desk.
Game Watching
Experience game viewing at your own pace with the convenience of your own vehicle.
The tourist gravel road in the game viewing area spans 94km and is expected to take around six hours to navigate. The Af-en-Toe picnic spot is located midway along the route, featuring ablution and braai facilities.
Birdwatching
The camp area serves as an excellent starting point for birding, featuring species such as the 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 stunning Orange River White-eye, all found within the acacia bush and riverine vegetation.
The gorge situated just below the camp, where the orange river creates the magnificent Augrabies Falls, is home to Verreaux’s Eagle and Peregrine Falcon, along with large mixed flocks of aerial feeders including Alpine Swift, African Black Swift, Brown-throated Martin, and Rock Martin.
The Cinnamon-breasted Warbler, Short-toed Rock-Thrush, and Mountain Wheatear can be found on the rocky koppies along the drives. Echo Corner is an excellent location to seek out the Cinnamon-breasted Warbler.
In the open arid regions away from the river, one can find other typical species of the Karoo, such as 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, Karoo Korhaan, and Chat Flycatcher.
Visit Augrabies Waterfall
The waterfall cascades 56 meters into the breathtaking 18km gorge beneath.
A boardwalk featuring multiple viewpoints provides convenient access, guaranteeing that you can capture the ideal photograph. The viewpoints of the waterfall are easily accessible on foot from the restaurant complex and Rest Camp.
Overnight guests have the opportunity to admire the illuminated waterfall in the refreshing evening air, from 20h00 to 22h00.
Best time to visit Augrabies Falls National Park
Augrabies Falls National Park can be visited all year around. Although the best time to visit the park is during the cooler months of April to September when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities.
