Namaqua Caracal 4x4 Trail

About Namaqua Caracal 4x4 Trail

Right in the heart of the Namaqualand, where wild flowers erupt into colour every spring, is the Namaqua Caracal 4x4 Trail. This part of the Northern Cape is quiet and sparsely vegetated almost all year round. However, come the springtime, the landscapes become a colourful mosaic of pinks, purples, yellows, oranges and reds.

This is a one-way route just outside Kamieskroon (a small town nestled in the foothills of the Kamiesberge) that extends from Skilpad to Groenriviersmond for some 176 kilometres. It has a formal grading of between one and three, and takes between six and eight hours to complete, depending on your personal pace, expertise and skills. While the route is one-way, there are a number of detours available as well as the option to do the Namaqua Caracal 4x4 Trail in reverse. This route consists of steep inclines and declines, dongas, gravel, rocks and plenty of slippery sand. Still, it is a self-driven trail and does not require an experienced guide.

Even when the wild flowers are not in bloom, the local vegetation is beautiful. This countryside boasts quiver trees and gigantic granite outcrops that testify to the unfathomable scale of nature’s artworks. There are also stretches of coastline that are quite awe-inspiring, and that make for exquisite views while tackling the route.

Along the way, drivers and their passengers are encouraged to explore some of the many nature trails on foot, indulging themselves in a natural exploration at a different pace. At the end of the trail, you can look forward to seeing pelicans and flamingos aplenty as they put on a display for tired drivers.

Drivers need to tackle this trail fully equipped with fresh water and food. There are some enviro-loos along the way, but generally no ablutions are available.