Discovering the Beautiful West Coast in South Africa

By Alice Faircloth


Individuals obviously like to see stunning places however are occasionally disappointed when they discover that those places are rather touristy. South Africa still manages to provide a genuine travel experience however if you specifically appreciate traveling along the unbeaten path, then the west coastline might be an outstanding choice for you.

The West Coast is less touristy than the East Coast because the East Coastline has warm seas whereas the West Coast has a colder ocean. The East Coastline is well known for its Garden Route and vineyards, whereas the West coast has well established farms with vegetables and fruit.

What the West coast has to offer though can be especially pleasurable in September and October, when it is Spring in SA. Throughout this period the arid semi-desert area of Namaqualand, likewise called "the South African Wilderness", goes into bloom and you will discover kilometers on end of amazing colourful blooms. The Namaqualand Flower Route starts off in the West Coast National Park near Langebaan and runs along the N7, through towns like Garies, Kamieskroon, Port Nolloth, and Springbok.

Two of the gems of the west coastline are the Cedaberg Mountains and the Cedaberg Wilderness; 710 000 hectares of rugged beauty where it is still possible to find ancient rock art and go hiking and abseiling. The West Coastline ends on the North border of the country and running into Namibia further north and the Kalahari desert to the East. There are lovely seaside towns to visit along the way, such as Lambert's Bay, Saldanha Bay and Paternoster.

There are lots of ways to appreciate your holidays in South Africa. Individuals who enjoy fish and shellfish will love cruising the Route 27 and stopping off at the numerous seaside dining establishments readily available. Here the crayfish is exquisitely succulent as undoubtedly, are all the fish, which is caught fresh daily. The value for money is exceptional and most of the fish is actually prepared on open fires as you drink a sun-downer at one of the outdoors tables. Here you will discover the perfect balance between nature, luxury and culture.

The whole of the Olifant's River valley is fantastic for its old world beauty and worth. You will meet many descendants of the original Dutch inhabitants that have actually been working this land for over 4 centuries. Citrusdal can be especially excellent when the oranges are ripe on the trees and contrast with the dark green foliage and the deep blue-green sky.

Do not confuse the Oliphant's River Valley with the Oliphant's River which offers cruises to see hippos and crocodiles. That Oliphant's River is on the other side of the country near the Kruger National Park.

If you start your vacation in Cape Town, we suggest that you head directly for the Namaqualand experience, from there you can take a flight to the Kruger National Park if you want a Safari, otherwise you can spend a few days in Cape Town and see the botanical Gardens called Kirstenbosch, the City Center, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and Table Mountain. After that you can move off towards Cape Point then possibly drive along the Garden Route if you want.

On the East Coastline you will be able to enjoy Ocean Safaris. In the winter months you can take a boat ride and get within fifty m of the whales. In the summertime you can get "up close and personal" with the dolphins. Possibly stop off one night or two in Wilderness, which is the best lazy spot with a great beach to get some rest before you make your way back home.




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