The southern region of Africa is full of national parks in which to spend a few glorious days on holiday. Towards the south west of Africa lies Namaqua National Park, one of the favorites amongst locals and visitors. It’s here that you’ll find striking fields of lush vegetation, post-card coastline and a wilderness begging to be explored. It is one of only two arid spots that also encompass so much biodiversity.
A great way to enjoy Namaqua Park is to go the self catering route, especially if you’re traveling with the family. That way you’ll save on money and be able to experience your surroundings at your own leisure. And if it’s natural splendour you’re after then this is the place to find it. San Parks reports that the carpets of indigenous flowers take over the dust pans during the months of August and September. Even though the region is arid, the wildflowers persist and the resulting scenery is breathtaking.
The Slipad Rest Camp has only four chalets on offer so you won’t be bothered by many other people on your getaway trip. You can enjoy dinner with your family and friends around the outside braai, or have a romantic night in alongside the indoor fireplace. There is a fully-equipped kitchen area and electricity so you can enjoy being away from it all in comfort.
The great thing about catering for yourself is you can plan your day the way you want to; there’s no pressure to be anywhere at anytime. If you remember all the basics, then self-catering can also be a breeze.
Pack in entertainment:
It’s common knowledge that children, no matter how old, get bored easily. Make sure you bring along some books or board games to keep the little ones entertained. You could also give your children a notebook each to keep a diary of the holiday; it’ll be a nice way for them to appreciate the experience.
Be food wise:
Plan ahead and pack food that will last more than a few days. You won’t be able to eat everything in the first couple of days so plan to eat produce that has an expiry date first. If you’ve got a cooler box then pack it full with fruit, drinks and cold meats to keep them all fresh. It’s also a good idea to bring along a few packets of instant food for emergencies such as instant soup and two minute noodles.
Less is more:
Because you will be bringing food along on the trip you will have less space for clothing. That’s ok. It’s better to pack light because you often end up using only two of the six shirts you packed anyways. Bring along the essentials: swimming costume, shorts, flops, warm top, jeans and hiking boots.
Sun care:
This is very important when in Africa. Make sure you bring a high factor sun cream and sun hats for yourself and the kids.
If you’re going to truly enjoy the Namaqua National Park you’ve got to get out there in the wilderness and really explore the land. Make sure you:
Visit the untouched coastal line.
Take a few snaps of the quiver trees.
See the carpets and carpets of flowers.
Try to find one of the local residents; the Namaqua Speckled Padloper.
Spot some of the indigenous birds.
Jade Scully is a copywriter excited about writing copy and stories, blogging about the world and editing. She currently and regularly publishes her stories on a number of blogs. Jade loves animals and hopes to begin writing copy for the animal rescue charity TEARS as her contribution to the cause.
