South Africa is one of the most stunning places in the world; there is the huge, flat-topped Table Mountain; massive plains where a myriad of different animals roam free. Whales, sharks, turtles and an abundance of colorful fish swim just off the white sandy beaches. It is also home to some of the most amazing flowers in the world.
People travel from far and wide to see the flowers blossoming as the spring starts to take over. There are areas of the country which are literally covered in fresh flowers; a sea of color stretching out in front of you as far as your eyes can see.
Best time of the year to explore the South African landscapes
The best time to experience this wonder of nature is in the early spring. South Africa is in the southern hemisphere so spring starts in late July or August. Whichever month you pick there is still a chance of rain and this will prevent you from seeing any flowers; they only open in the sunshine! To make sure you are not disappointed you need to allow yourself several days dedicated to flower spotting; the reward is well worth the wait! By the end of September spring is finished and the flowers will be starting to wilt under the intense heat of the African sun.
Where to go
It is best to fly to Cape Town and allow yourself a few days to explore the city; this can be before or after your flower trip! You will need to hire yourself a car and then take the N7 out of the city, north along the Cape-Namibia. The scenery is stunning; thick forests give way to industrial plants and green hills with range orchards dotted around the countryside.
Clanwilliam
This small town is in the Cederberg Mountains and is the only place in the world that makes Rooibos tea. It is essential to stop, stretch your legs and try a cup. There is also a beautiful neo-gothic church and a very helpful tourist office which will provide any information or maps that you need; whether you know it or not!
Bushmans Kloof
Bushmans Kloof is a colonial style spread of thatched cottages surrounded by a sea of green grass. You may catch your first glimpse of what is to come with a small patch of Namaqua daisies which surround the gates to this impressive reserve. The 18,500 acres reserve surrounds the colonial spread and offers the opportunity to see a sea of flowers, providing the rain stays away! There is a ranger on hand to take you on a flower safari. They will point out all the different types and can easily differentiate between a lachenelias, pelargonium magenta and even the sugarbush.
It is also possible to see the Rooibos plant and feel its leaves. When the sun is out the fields become a mass of yellow and purple. The Bushmans Kloof is also home to 37 Rock art sites; these are drawings completed on rocks which date back as far as 11,000 years old; to the time of the San and Khoi people.
Biedouw Valley
The climb up from Bushmans Kloof to the start of Biedouw valley is full of flowers blooming; gold and violet are the predominant colors although flashes of orange and even red appear in places. The top allows you a glimpse into the valley, a sight that, when coated in sunshine, is splendid in its display of colors; yellow, pink, orange and red merge and separate as you first see the landscape stretching into the distance. The flowers stand as tall as your knees and it is a surreal, yet blissful feeling to meander through them.
South Africa is an exquisite travel destination for voyageurs of all types. Whether you’re a honeymooner hunting for the best South African villa rentals to relax and enjoy quality time in the sun, or you’d rather climb the surreal Table Mountain to admire Cape Town from the top, there’s no doubt that this country has it all; it’s the perfect place for a dreamy holiday with landscapes, wildlife and sceneries that you’ll surely remember for a lifetime.
Author Bio
Edward Francis is a regular travel blogger who writes here on behalf of CapePortFolios.com!