PROVINCE SPOTLIGHT
After a day of desert heat and long hikes, the Ai / Ais hot springs offer a natural reset. These warm mineral waters are tucked away in the Namibian section of the park, but they are very much part of the Northern Cape experience. Imagine soaking in healing water under a sky so dark that the stars feel close enough to touch, far away from the glow of city lights. It’ s a simple luxury, but it’ s one of the most memorable experiences in the desert.
DESERT LIFE, REDEFINED
The wildlife is very impressive too. The park is home to 56 mammal species, including gemsbok, springbok, and even elusive predators like caracal, brown hyena and leopard. Birdwatchers will love the more than 194 bird species that call this place home, including the African fish eagle and the rare augur buzzard. The Northern Cape is often described as empty, but the truth is it is full of life, just life that has adapted to the harshest conditions on Earth.
PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS
• Plan your fuel stops
• Pack for extremes
• Go offline-ready
• Respect the desert
• Stay after dark
The Fish River Canyon is another of the Northern Cape’ s showstopper, and it’ s one of the most dramatic natural features in the world. At nearly 160km long and 500m deep, it is the secondlargest canyon on Earth. For those who want a real challenge, the five-day Fish River Canyon hike is one of the most intense and rewarding adventures in South Africa. It’ s not for the fainthearted, but the reward is a trip through one of nature’ s most magnificent masterpieces. Alternatively, you can explore the canyon mouth where the Fish River meets the Orange River.
The Orange River flows through a gorge created when the continent tilted, causing the water to rush west. The canyon is one of these places where time seems to have stood still and all that is required from you is to just immerse yourself around it all.
68 INBOUND SA / MARCH 2026