West Coast National Park is located in the north of Cape approximately 90km away from the coast. The park is one of the best birders haven in south Africa entailing over a quarter of South Africa’s birds.
Attractions to see in West Coast National Park
Birds
West Coast National Park boosts more than 250 bird species, or more than 25% of South Africa’s total, can be found at West Coast National Park. Some of species, such the Curlow Sandpiper, Sanderling, and Knot.
Activities to do in Attractions in West Coast national park
Birding
The park encompasses the Langebaan Lagoon, recognized as a Ramsar site, highlighting its global importance for wetland bird species.
Numerous wader species are Palearctic migrants, making summer the ideal season to explore the lagoon. September is especially interesting as these birds return weary from their long journeys, while March sees them gathering in significant numbers to feed extensively before embarking on their enroute South Africa safari. During these periods, the birds frequently transition into or out of their breeding plumage found in the Northern Hemisphere.
The most suitable moment to observe the lagoon waders is by visiting the Geelbek hide during low tide as the tide begins to rise. As the water level rises, the waders are compelled to move nearer to the hide, ultimately having to take flight until the tide recedes again.
The smaller species are the first to depart, while the long-legged godwits, whimbrels, and curlews are the last to take flight. Knot, Sanderling, Little Stint, Ruff, Marsh, Terek, and Curlew Sandpiper, Turnstone, Ringed and Grey Plover, Greenshank, Whimbrel, Curlew, and Bar-tailed Godwit are frequently observed, with the chance of encountering rarer species always present. Little Egret and South African Shelduck can be observed alongside the waders.
Flamingoes and White Pelicans often inhabit deeper waters, and there is a possibility of spotting Ospreys. A private hide located to the west of the Geelbek educational centre provides a vantage point over a salt pan, which is a prime spot for observing Chestnut-banded Plover.
The fynbos around the lagoon in the reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including the Southern Black Korhaan, Cape Spurfowl, and Grey-winged Francolin. Observers can also spot the Southern Grey and Cape Penduline Tit, Ant-eating Chat, White-throated and Yellow Canary, Karoo Lark, Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler, Bokmakierie, and Cape Bunting with relative ease. African Marsh and Black Harrier are frequently observed quartering the ground.
Nature walks / Hikes
West Coast National Park has quite a number of hiking trails. The hiking trails in the park include;
- Geelbek Short Day Walks
- Bakoor Trail
- Strandveld Trail Two Day Hike
- Postberg Two Day Hiking Trails (only during August and September)
- Steenbok One Day Trail (only during August and September)
- Eve’s Trail
Hiking Rules and Regulations
No pets allowed
No picking of flowers
No removal of any material, plant or animal
Speed limit 50km/h
Do not litter
No fires on the beach
Please remain in your vehicle, for your own safety
Please do not pick up tortoises
Whale Watching
Visitors to the park are treated to breathtaking views by Southern Right whales passing on shores in August and September. These stunning mammals can be seen swimming along the park’s Tsaarsbank section’s coastline.
Mountain Biking / Cycling
West Coast National Park offers unforgettable biking and cycling experiences through the park with scenic views and trails.
The Cycling Routes include Langebaan Gate – Geelbek & return: 30km on tarred road and Langebaan Gate – Kraalbaai & return: 70km on tarred road.
The Mountain biking routes include The 13km Green Trail (follow Green signs) starts at the Langebaan Gate and traverses up to the Seeberg Bird Hide before heading back to the gate and the 17km Red Trail (follow Red signs) uses a similar route to the Green Trail, but heads up instead to the Seeberg Lookout and thereafter to Mooimaak before heading back to the Langebaan Gate.
Experience the West Coast Flower Season
West Coast National Park features a vibrant and well-loved flower season each year from August to September. The Flower Season on the West Coast is rapidly emerging as a powerful rival to other well-known flower viewing destinations in the country, influenced by the amount of rainfall in the winter months prior.
The park comes alive with a vibrant display of colour as Spring unveils an array of blooming fynbos and veld. Especially notable in the Postberg area of the park (accessible to the public solely during Flower Season), the stunningly vibrant landscapes are unmatched along the West Coast of South Africa. Embark on a drive or hike through the Postberg section during flower season, and you are guaranteed to see stunning views of game amidst the vibrant flowers.
Best Time to visit West Coast national park
August and September are the ideal months to explore West Coast National Park. This will ensure you arrive promptly for the whale’s meeting with the flowers. Rest assured, regardless of the month you choose to visit, this park offers a wonderful experience year-round, featuring numerous activities, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Entrance Fees to West Coast national park
Free to valid Wild Card holders. R66 (adults, SA citizens and residents with ID) R33 (children), RI 00 (SADC adults with a valid passport) R50 (SADC children with a valid passport), RI 00 (international adults) R50 (international children).
(During flower season, August – September) R94 (adults, SA citizens and residents with ID) R47 (children), R144 (SADC adults with a valid passport) R72 (SADC children with a valid passport), R210 (international adults) R105 (international children)
Mon-Sun 7:00 – 19:00 (September – March)
Mon-Sun 7:00 – 18:00 (April – August)
