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Travel bucket list idea:

Last updated: 24 June, 2023
Expert travel writer: Richard Holmes

The annual blooming of spring flowers along South Africa’s west coast is a natural wonder that draws travellers from around the world. While the spectacle peaks in the far Northern Cape, the Postberg section of the West Coast National Park – just an hour’s drive from Cape Town – offers a taste of this floral frenzy.

In this underrated Park you can admire vast expanses of iridescent daisies, spot wild antelope, or picnic on the shoreline to look for migrating whales. Throw in idyllic beaches and productive bird hides and you have one of the Cape’s secret bucket list destinations.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The West Coast National Park is situated an hour’s drive north of Cape Town along the R27, a good condition tar road. Postberg is a further 45 minutes’ drive from the gate.

You can easily self-drive, giving you freedom and flexibility, though organised tours know the best viewing points.

When to do it

August and September are peak flower months. The flower-rich Postberg section is only open in August and September, although you can explore the rest of the Park year-round. The gates to the Park open daily at 7am, all year round. In flower season queues can be lengthy, so it pays to arrive early.

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Cape Town

Western Cape, South Africa

Aerial view of the whole city at dusk

A vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art scene, golden beaches world-class wine regions and outstanding gastronomy. All in the shadows of the mighty Table Mountain.