The Khoi people called it ‘Aukoerebis’, or 'Place of Great Noise', as this powerful flow of water is unleashed from rocky surroundings characterised by the 18km abyss of the Orange River Gorge. The 55 383 hectares on both the northern and southern sides of the Orange River provide sanctuary to an uniquely diverse number of species, from the very smallest succulents, birds and reptiles to Hartmann's mountain zebra, springbok, klipspringer, gemsbok and giraffe.
Picturesque names such as Moon Rock, Ararat and Echo Corner are descriptive of this rocky region where the kokerboom (quiver trees) stand in stark silhouette against the African sky, silent sentinels in a strangely unique environment where only those that are able to adapt ultimately survive.
As the Orange River approaches Augrabies Falls it divides itself into numerous channels before cascading down the 56 metre high waterfall. The river then continues its path through an 18 kilometre gorge. The sight and sound of the power of the water will not be easily forgotten.
Accommodation at the Park is well appointed and include fully equipped self-catering chalets, ranging from one to two bedrooms (main bedroom en-suite).
The single bedroom chalets have a sleeper couch suitable for children in the lounge and family unities with two bedrooms and a sleeper couch.
A Restaurant and tea garden offer welcome relieve to those not wanting to cook. A well-equipped selfservice store offers all the essentials to prepare your own home cooked meal or barbecue to be enjoyed under the velvetty night skies, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy impromptu star gazing.
5 things to seek
- Rock hyrax (dassie)
- Broadley’s Flat Lizard
- Klipspringer
- Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle
- Hartmann's Mountain Zebra
Places to not to miss
- Echo Corner Viewpoint
- Swart Rante
- Oranjekom and Arrarat Viewpoints
- Moon Rock
In the peak summer months (January / February) the average daytime temperature is 41°C, but highs of 46°C have been recorded. Summer nights are usually more pleasant but temperatures will remain high at around 25°C.
During winter months the average daytime temperature often hovers around 20°C but lower temperatures are a possibility. Winter nights average around 0°C although the temperature drops to -5° occasionally and the perfect time to explore this Park.
Contact information
| Contact Person | Steven Smith |
| Telephone | 0544529200 |
| Alternative Number | 0124289111 |
| Fax Number | 0544515003 |
| Email Address | augrabiesres@sanparks.org |
| Website Address | www.sanparks.org |
| Physical Address | Augrabies Falls National Park |
