When is flower season in South Africa and where can you find the best spots?
Springtime has to be my favourite time of the year, as that is when the flowers start to go into full bloom. Spring starts on the first of September and this is also known as flower season. Namaqualand is probably the most popular area to see spring flowers, but there are also some great spots in the Western Cape.
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The best time to visit
The best time to see the spring flowers in South Africa is from mid-August to mid-September, although many people start searching for these flowers beginning of August already.
My suggestion would be to plan a trip end of August, that way you’ll be sure to catch some beautiful flower blankets.
Where to see the spring flowers in South Africa?
Here is a list of places to visit to see the colourful flowers:
Namaqua National Park
If you are from South Africa then when someone says ‘Spring flowers’, I bet your mind instantly jumps to Namaqualand.
Namaqua National Park is located close to Kamieskroon in the North West and forms part of the South African National Parks. It is a 5-hour drive from Cape Town and is located within the semi-desert Karoo.
Conservation fee (2022):
- South African Citizen and Resident – R50 per adult & R25 per child
- International Visitors – R100 per adult & R50 per child
West Coast National Park
The West Coast National Park is located close to Langebaan in the Western Cape province and is about 88km north of Cape Town. This national park forms part of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program and is especially known for its array of colourful flowers, but also turquoise water.
Conservation Fee (2022):
Since flower season is from August to September, this time tends to be a lot busier.
Flower season (August to September)
- South African citizen and resident – R100 per adult & R50 per child
- International Visitors – R220 per adult & R110 per child
Outside Flower season
- South African citizen and resident – R70 per adult & R35 per child
- International Visitors – R105 per adult & R52 per child
Postberg Flower Reserve
Even though the Postberg Flower Reserve forms part of the West Coast National Park, it deserves a separate mention.
This area of the National Park can ONLY be visited during flower season (September and August). Also, keep an eye out for all the amazing wildlife that roams this area.
There is also this popular hiking trail known as the ‘Postberg Flower Trail’. It is a 2-day trail that is about 26km long, It is very important that you book this trail in advance as it is only open during August and September and they only allow 12 hikers per day! This trail will lead you through the beautiful carpets of flowers and you’ll also get some great views of the ocean and some rock formations.
Conservation Fee (2022):
Flower season (August to September)
- South African citizen and resident – R100 per adult & R50 per child
- International Visitors – R220 per adult & R110 per child
Biedouw Valley
Cederberg is a popular destination for watching spring flowers dance in the wind. In the heart of the Cederberg mountain, you will find Biedouw Valley. This is in my opinion one of the best spots to see the flowers.
Ramskop Nature Reserve
Ramskop Nature Reserve is located in Clanwilliam in the Cederberg area and is especially popular among tourists. It is located 228km from Cape Town and will be the best road trip. The nature reserve is located next to the Clanwilliam Dam and you can easily visit the reserve as well as the Biedouw Valley in one trip.
Renosterveld Reserve
Renosterveld Reserve is located in Darling and is about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. The reserve is located on a hill and forms part of the Annual Darling Wildflower Show, which is usually held on the third weekend of September.
Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve
I mean, the name says it all. This reserve is located just outside the beautiful Darling on your way to Yzerfontein. The reserve is open all year round but is especially popular during spring season.
Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Fernkloof Nature Reserve is located in Hermanus and is the perfect escape from city life and being emerged in nature.
During Spring time, the flowers are also in full bloom here, making it the perfect combination of ocean views, mountain views, and flowers.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday – 6am to 7pm (Summer)
Monday to Sunday – 7am to 7pm (Winter)
Entrance: FREE!
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