Discover the Beauty of Flowers in South Africa

Did you know that South Africa is a paradise for flower lovers all year round? Blooms aren’t just limited to the West Coast during springtime. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a breathtaking sight, South Africa has it all. Here are seven amazing places where you can experience the colorful and vibrant world of flowers.

1. Cosmos Country, Mpumalanga

I bet you’ve never seen anything like Cosmos Country. It’s a place that sits right on the border of the Free State and Gauteng in Mpumalanga. They call it Cosmos Country because of all the cosmos flowers that bloom there every late summer. When those flowers start to bloom, the whole region turns into a crazy mix of pink, purple, and white. It’s like a dream! If you’re a flower lover like me, you have to visit Cosmos Country. It’s the perfect place to get lost in a sea of beautiful flowers.

More info: Cosmos Country Tourism Centre, Tel 017 620 6282, www.mpumalanga.com

2. Sunflowers near Kroonstad, Free State

Want to see something truly breathtaking? Look no further than the sunflower fields near Kroonstad in the Free State. Imagine driving from Durban to Cape Town and suddenly coming across a field filled with vibrant yellow sunflowers. It’s a sight that will make your jaw drop. I’ve seen pictures, but I can only imagine how incredible it must be in person. Stop by one of these fields during your trip and prepare to be amazed.

If you’re driving along the N1 between Bloemfontein and Johannesburg, you’ll come across a delightful place called Kroonstad. This town is particularly special during the months of September and October when the sunflowers bloom, turning the landscape into a golden paradise. Whether you’re exploring Kroonstad or simply passing through, the sight of these bright, cheerful faces will captivate you. Don’t worry about missing out on the sunflowers while rushing to get to Bloemfontein or Johannesburg – you can easily spot them from the highway.

3. Discover the Magic of Wildflowers in Namaqualand, Northern Cape

I have to tell you something incredible – it’s absolutely mind-blowing! Remember that Namaqua National Park I was talking about? Well, after the pre-spring rains, the entire park is transformed into a breathtaking spectacle of color. Imagine a vibrant carpet of daisies, all in stunningly psychedelic hues. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale! And that’s not all – you’ll also be treated to the sight of majestic quiver trees and impressive granite outcroppings that offer awe-inspiring views.

But wait, there’s more! Can you believe that out of the 3500 species of plants that grow in the park, a whopping 1000 of them can’t be found anywhere else on this entire planet? Talk about exclusivity! It’s like having a front-row ticket to witness nature’s greatest show.

I know what you’re thinking – how much is this incredible experience going to cost you? Well, the good news is that it’s totally affordable! The entrance fee is only R34 per adult and R17 per child. So, grab your loved ones and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. I promise you, it’s worth every penny.

More info: Entrance costs R34 per adult, R17 per child. Tel 027 672 1948, www.sanparks.org/parks/namaqua

4. Daisies in Darling, Western Cape

Photo by Caitlin Leigh.

If you’re a flower enthusiast, you’re in luck. The Darling district is a popular spot for flower lovers like you. From white daisies to vibrant purple skilpadblomme, the range of spring flowers is truly spectacular. And the best time to see them is in August and September, when they’re in full bloom.

One event that you shouldn’t miss is the Darling Wildflower Show, which takes place from September 16 to 18, 2016. It’s a fantastic opportunity for visitors of all kinds to experience the beauty of these flowers up close. But this show isn’t just about flowers – it has something for everyone.

At the show, you’ll be treated to stunning flower displays that will take your breath away. But there’s more! You can enjoy live entertainment, explore stalls selling all sorts of goodies and delicious food, and even take a fun tractor ride. It’s a day filled with excitement and wonder.

If you’re wondering about the details, here they are:

• Entrance to the show costs R50 for adults and R30 for children.
• You can reach the show organizers at Tel 022 492 3361 or email [email protected]
• If you want more information, visit their website at www.darlingtourism.co.za

So, if you’re looking for a memorable flower experience, head on over to Darling. You won’t be disappointed!

5. Aloes in Graskop and Lydenburg, Mpumalanga

If you’re on the hunt for some unique and extraordinary flower viewing, I’ve got just the thing for you. Take a drive from Graskop to Pilgrim’s Rest or through the JG Strydom Tunnel on the Abel Erasmus Pass, and you’re in for a treat. Along the way, keep an eye out for the stunning Graskop aloe (Aloe aloides) – a plant that can only be found in this particular area. Its vibrant yellow flowers, standing tall with their spiky nature, are truly a sight to behold. Unfortunately, you might have just missed their spectacular bloom as they’re best seen during June. If you happen to be in the Eastern Cape during the same period, be sure to watch out for the breathtaking Aloe ferox that adds a splash of bright orange to the roadside.

Now, let’s talk about another exciting spot: the Eastern Cape extravaganza in Port Elizabeth.

The Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve is an amazing place to experience the beauty of nature. Whether you’re by yourself or with friends, you can enjoy the sights and smells of flowers, as well as do some bird-watching. The main purpose of the reserve is to protect and preserve the native plants that grow there. When you visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area and discover a variety of flowering plant species, including fynbos, succulents, and the popular protea. Best of all, entry to the reserve is free, so you can enjoy all that it has to offer without spending a single penny. If you’re interested in visiting, you can contact the reserve at 041 956 0038 or visit their website at www.vanstadens.co.za for more information.

Look at the flowers in the Tankwa Karoo National Park! They’re so pretty, aren’t they? In August, you can see them at their brightest and most colorful. But don’t worry if you visit in September, you can still catch a glimpse of their yellow beauty before they start to fade.

If you want to see the most amazing displays of flowers, head to Die Spruit and Prambergfontein/Volmoersfontein. They’re known for their stunning flower shows. And if you’re visiting later in the season, go up the Roggeveld/Gannaga Pass. The flowers there bloom a bit later.

When you visit the park, keep in mind that it costs R34 for adults and R17 for children to enter. You can find more information at www.sanparks.org/parks/tankwa.