Namaqualand is the biggest region in the Northern Cape province and stretches from the succulent Karoo biome along the low lying areas in the west, to the golden grasslands of Bushmanland, and the scrub covered plains of the Nama Karoo. On its western border, the cold Atlantic Ocean crashes onto the rugged and desolate coastline, which is a rich source of alluvial diamonds. Most agree though that these much sought-after gems pale when compared to the displays of flowers that occur each spring after good rains. The region is home to more than 6000 plant species and is a biodiversity hotspot – the only arid hotspot in the world. These, along with 250 bird, 78 mammals, 132 species of reptiles and amphibians, and numerous insects, make it an environmental prize for nature lovers, and what’s more, over forty percent of these species are not found elsewhere in the world. The rare and haunting Halfmens (half-person, or Pachypodium namaquanum) succulent is unique to northern Namaqualand; and quiver trees (‘kokerboom’ or aloe dichotoma) are often the tallest structure seen for vast distances. In the north-west, the incredibly beautiful Richtersveld mountain desert (and Ai|Ais / Richtersveld National Park) offers adventurers the opportunity to step back in time and explore an ancient landscape. Southeast of Springbok, the region’s main town, lies the Goegap Nature Reserve, with its 600 indigenous flower species; and further south the Namaqua National Park is now open year-round although usually associated with spring blossoms. Visit Namaqualand, and you’ll discover unique people – like the Nama who live in reed huts, culture, history, attractions – the bulb capital of the world in Nieuwoudtville, activities, and much more. --- By Brent Naudé-Moseley
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