Extending from Cape Town to the Namibian border in the north, the west coast of South Africa features a diverse and beautiful landscape. The northern portion, known as Namaqualand, comprises an arid territory that stretches north from the Olifant River to the lower reaches of the Orange River, near the Namibian border. This land is intimidating in its vast emptiness, but surprisingly rich with an enormous profusion of succulents and flowering plants. After the spring rains (August – October) the land blooms in a glorious wonderland carpeted in wild flowers. At other times of the year the appeal is limited to coastal flying over increasingly remote areas.

Recommendation: Enroute viewing.