Augrabies Falls National Park

Augrabies Falls National Park protects a dramatic waterfall on the Orange River in South Africa’s Northern Cape, notable for the river’s plunge into a steep granite gorge. The falls and gorge are the park’s principal natural attraction and are set within an arid Karoo landscape.

Key attractions include multiple viewpoints over the main falls and the series of sculpted granite rock formations surrounding the river. Park trails range from short walks to longer gorge routes and provide views of the falls, river, and semi-arid plant communities.

The waterfall and surrounding landscape have long been known to indigenous Khoisan peoples and were later recorded by European explorers; the area has been protected in stages to conserve its geology, flora and fauna. Conservation efforts focus on managing visitor access, maintaining trails and protecting riverine habitats.

The park lies in the Northern Cape on the Orange River amid an arid, rocky landscape. The nearest major urban centre is the regional town of Upington, which serves as the usual gateway for visitors to the park.

• Best time to visit: River flows are highly seasonal; the falls are most dramatic during late summer and early autumn when summer rains increase the Orange River discharge.
• Visitor tips: Viewing platforms and short trails provide safe viewpoints over the falls and into the gorge; sturdy footwear is recommended for trails with uneven rock surfaces.

What to See #

• Main Falls: The main waterfall where the Orange River plunges into a deep granite gorge, with the water dropping roughly 60 metres into a narrow chasm and multiple viewing platforms nearby.
• Moon Rock and surrounding formations: A collection of sculpted granite domes and rock formations shaped by erosion and seasonal flood flows, accessible from several short trails and picnic sites in the park.