Kamieskroon, Northern Cape

Kamieskroon lies in the heart of the Northern Cape’s flower route, between Garies and Springbok and only 20 km from the Namaqua National Park.

The town, more of a “dorp” really due to its size, is set among the granite rock formations of the Kamiesberg mountain range. Despite its size the “dorp” is cute enough to visit or at least take a drive through when visiting in the area. The town is at its loveliest during the flower season, August to October, and makes a good base to explore the surrounding area.

Some bike fanatics say that Kamieskroon is the best kept mountain-biking secret in the country. There are four routes that link the town with Leliefontein, Vissersplaat and Nourivier. Ask about a quiver tree forest that is said to be about 50 km outside of town, a few locals apparently know its secret location.

Find one of the quaint guesthouses and self-catering units in the area and spend a night or two in the beautiful landscape of the Northern Cape.

Places to Visit

Things to do and see

• Strandveld 4x4 Trail
• Shipwreck 4x4 Trail
• Caracal Eco Route
• Skilpad Wildflower Reserve
• Namaqua National Park
• Leliefontein Methodist Church & Parsonage
• Lt CJ Darter’s Grave
• Goegap Nature Reserve

Climate

Kamieskroon receives approximately 150 mm of rain annually with the majority of its rainfall occurring during the winter months.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 15˚C and 29˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 4˚C and 16˚C.

Transport

There are daily flights into Cape Town International Airport. Kamieskroon is approximately 495 km away along the N7. Car hire facilities are available at the Airport.

History

Kamieskroon’s origin lies in the 1860’s, about 7 km from its present position where it first formed under the name Bowesville. The town was named after the district Surgeon, Dr Henry Bowe, later the name changed to Bowesdorp.

The town occupied a narrow kloof and there was little room to expand so in 1924 the church council decided to move and rebuild the town where it stands today. The name Kamieskroon was derived from the Nama word “kam” meaning “two” which referred to the twin peaks of the mountain and “kroon” most likely because of the 330m peak crowned a huge, cleft rock which stands about a kilometre away.