There are several national parks in South Africa that you ought to visit. South Africa as a country is surely a storehouse of myriad ecosystems and vibrant landscapes. The country is a paradise, comprising of a gamut of fauna and flora, each different from the other. Much acclaimed for its wildlife, both big and small, the South African country is a dream-come-true for every wildlife enthusiast!
Here’s a list that beholds all the wonderful national parks in South Africa that contribute the most to the heritage of this stupendous country. Boasting of its natural habitats, housing a plethora of animals in South Africa, right here, right now!
10 Most Amazing National Parks In South Africa
With a storehouse of incredible creatures and plants to see, here are the most beautiful national parks in South Africa at your leisure.
1. West Coast National Park
This colorful park truly justifies why South Africa is called the colorful nation. The multi-colored landscape of this park is catchy, for tonnes of colorful flowers sway in the wind and spread tranquility. As the name says, this national park in South Africa is located on the west coast of the country. Not to mention that the park boasts of meadows blooming with flowers, a couple of offshore islands, and Langebaan Lagoon; the focal point of the area. This further becomes a breeding ground for a huge number of different bird species; thus serving as a perfect space for bird watching.
2. Golden Gate Highlands National Park
This National park in South Africa is located near the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Owing to its astounding location, the park is aesthetically pleasing and that’s because of the spectacular sandstone cliffs. The ancient rock formations are beautiful to look at and even more for they camouflage within them caves which contain San rock art paintings. This further attracts a number of paleontologists who have excavated dinosaur skeletons and eggs in the past.
It’s popularly called the ‘Golden Gate’ due to the color of the cliffs when the sun sets on the same.
3. Karoo National Park
Here’s one of the aridest national parks in South Africa wherein you see the adaptable ecosystem coming together to etch out an unconventional living. This desert-like environment is further a treat to watch as it meets the horizon at a mesmerizing end.
Not to mention that the Nuweveld Mountains provide some variation to the flat plains and scrub-lands. However, the aloofness of the park glorifies its beauty in a way that’s heart-warming, for it makes you one with the wild nature. Also, a number of animals and birds find their home in the Karoo; one of those reasons where you’d want to keep coming back.
4. Namaqua National Park
This is one of those National Parks in South Africa that is sure to melt your heart, owing to the abundance of vibrant fauna and flora, that are to soothe you all together. Not to mention the picture-perfect views which include hills and meadows, worthy of your teary-eyed gaze. You are sure to be lured in by its biodiversity hotspot, Namaqua is home to over 3500 different types of plants with over a thousand of these species only blooming in this incredible park.
Furthermore, the best time to visit is in August or September, right after the monsoons.
5. Mapungubwe National Park
This particular national park in South Africa was formed to protect the former capital of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe. Also, the hill which the park is named after is a significant historical site. This is a different and truly aesthetic space to be wandering around in. The Mapungubwe Hill has formed an impressive fortress in times gone by as it was only accessible through a narrow gap between the rocks.
This park is on the border with Zimbabwe and Botswana, and entices patrons every now and then, who are absolutely awed by its beauty and cultural significance. Guided tours of the archaeological sites are fascinating while the treetop walkway is a magical way to see the spectacular scenery from above.
6. Marakele National Park
Marakele National Park lies between two different ecosystems and therefore offers contrasting arid and wet atmospheres. However, this gives rise to a diverse array of fauna and flora as well as animals and birds. This national park in South Africa is absolutely stunning for it houses the Waterberg Mountains which impressively dominate and rear above the plains of the park.
As a tourist, you are sure to come across a plethora of mammals such as rhinos, elephants, and lions. You are also sure of witnessing a lot of vultures circling in the winds around the mountains.
7. Garden Route National Park
The Garden Route national park in South Africa is made up of three diverse protected areas. Also, you are sure to come across a lot of beautiful landscapes here- Tsitsikamma, for example.
Knysna Lakes are your cup of tea in case tranquility is what you are looking for! The shores of these lakes serve exhilarating hiking spots and you’d not wanna miss out on that. The nearby elephant park is also nice to visit in case your inquisition wants you to see these creatures up close.
8. Kruger National Park
Kruger national park in South Africa is a major tourist attraction and one of the best national parks to opt for! The park boasts of a huge conservation area, which is home to a plethora of animals and is actually the best place in Africa to see large animals. Well, there are over 150 large animals such as zebras and antelopes that roam its plains, and patrons to this exceptional sight can never get enough of this country, and one of its best parks!
Not to mention the unforgettable safari rides that are sure to take you a long way in your process of recollection, later!
So which one’s your favorite?!
