West Coast National Park
West Coast National Park Flora & Fauna
The West Coast National Park is home to abundant colourful flowers. You can see a plethora of different species of annual Spring flowers blooming in the national park between the months of August and September. During this season, you can see umpteen varieties of breathtaking flora, such as White rain daisies, Livingstone daisies, Gousblom, Wild sorrel, and Magriet. One of the rare plants that grows here is the Euphorbia mauritanica as the park faces dry climates and has coastal as well as inland areas with colder winters. The vegetation of the park may be divided into 36 communities that includes around 482 plant species (including salt marsh species), of which 21 are Red Data Book species.
The West Coast National Park shelters umpteen species of animals including mountain zebra, eland, bontebok, gemsbok, red hartebeest, kudu, ostriches, duiker, cape gray mongoose, caracal, and bat-eared fox. The fynbos encompassing the lagoon houses many creatures including southern black korhaan, gray-winged francolin, Cape penduline, southern anteater chat, white-throated canary, Karoo lark, chestnut-vented warbler, bokmakierie, and Cape bunting. The coastal islands lying at the lagoon mouth are breeding colonies of animals like African penguins, Cape gannet, terns, and cormorants.
West Coast National Park Tour Packages
Head on this small-group excursion from Cape Town and explore the west coast like never before. Take a guided walk of the breathtaking Atlantis Dunes, discover the famous West Coast National Park, and see the picturesque Langebaan lagoon. Get to learn about the cultural history, flora, and fauna of the national park through guided commentary. Enjoy a full-filling lunch after a day full of activities.
Inclusions: - Admission ticket to West Coast National Park- Lunch- Tea tasting- All transportation provided- English speaking guide
Price: ranges between USD 85 to USD 94
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Get a chance to visit the famous West Coast National Park and explore the azure blue lagoon, green wetlands, stunning waves, and white dunes. Spend a day relaxing and capturing some amazing pictures against the natural sceneries. Engage in a number of fun-filled activities, such as hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and mountain biking. Next, pay a visit to Groote Post Winery and learn the age-old practices of wine making.
Inclusions: - Admission ticket to West Coast National Park- Private transportation- Lunch
Price: ranges between USD 130 to USD 140
With this package, take a comprehensive tour of one of the scenic wonders of Cape Town, the West Coast. Soak in the unadulterated natural aura of the West Coast National Park, explore the less populated postcard-perfect beaches here, and enjoy extraordinary wildlife experiences. Enjoy the thrill of quad biking amidst miles and miles of dunes that appear like a vast desert with your private group.
Inclusions: - Admission ticket to West Coast National Park- Pickup in air-conditioned vehicle- Quad Biking at Atlantis Dunes
Price: ranges between USD 178 to USD 192
Head on this 2 days adventure and discover the untouched magical beauty of the west coast of Cape Town. Take an exploration tour of the breathtaking West Coast National Park, head on a game drive on a tractor and soak in the picturesque beauty of the spectacular Langebaan Beach. Pay a visit to an old local brewery and sample some great brews after which you may visit the Khwa ttu Heritage Centre and get an insight of the local San traditions
Inclusions: - Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)- Hotel pickup offered- English speaking guide
Price: ranges between USD 161 to USD 170
On this private 1-day guided tour from Cape Town, get a chance to uncover the mesmerizing beauty of Cape Town’s West Coast. Explore the array of trees, colourful flowers, and fascinating wild animals and soak in the breathtaking views of the coastline. Hike through the West Coast National Park and sip some great cocktails at the pristine Blouberg Beach while enjoying the views of the jaw-dropping Table Mountain.
Inclusions: - Pick up & drop off from hotel- Accommodation in Cape Town- Certified local english-speaking guide- Private vehicle with filled fuel
Price: ranges between USD 140 to USD 150
Take a full day private tour of the west coast of Cape Town onboard a private vehicle. Witness colourful birds and seasonal flower blooms at the West Coast National Park. Visit the spectacular Langebaan and get an insight of the oldest culture of South Africa at the !Khwa ttu village..
Inclusions: - Pick up & drop off from hotel- Accommodation in Cape Town- Bottled water onboard the vehicle- Private english and french speaking tour guide/driver- Private vehicle with filled fuel
Price: ranges between USD 174 to USD 184
Things to Do at West Coast National Park
The West Coast National Park is seasonally visited by a myriad of whales. So, if you are visiting the national park between the months of August and October, you should have your eyes on the shoreline, where a number of whales can be seen bobbing in and out of the serene water. You may also want to take a wildlife safari, spotting many species of wildlife including zebra, bontebok, and gemsbok.
Suggested Read: Things to Do in South Africa
Enjoying water sports at the West Coast National Park is a must for all adventure enthusiasts visiting this place. Lying on the edge of the national park, the Langebaan Lagoon makes for the perfect hotspot for water activities. This lagoon is known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise water, and crosswinds that let you enjoy a broad spectrum of adrenaline-pumping water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and snorkelling.
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If you call yourself a history buff, head to Geelbek Visitor’s Centre, where you can spend some time learning about the cultural history of the West Coast National Park in addition to flora, and fauna residing here. While you take a tour of this museum, you can see an imitation of Eve’s footprints. The original footprints are believed to have been that of a lady who lived more than 1,17,000 years ago.
If you want to soak in the brilliant views of the night sky, you can plan your stay at the national park. There are plenty of chalets and cottages that offer spectacular views of the Milky Way and you can spend your night gazing at the stars and sighting various constellations. Some of the best cottages to stay include Van Breda Cottage, Jo Anne’s B Cottage, and Abrahamskraal Cottage.
Birdwatching has become quite famous among tourists visiting West Coast National Park, thanks to its more than 250 bird species residing here. You can see species like knots, sanderlings, and sandpipers that fly here from Russia, covering a distance of a whopping 15,000 kilometers. Other bird species that can be commonly spotted inside this national park include black harriers, ostriches, and flamingos.
Spend a relaxing time at the dreamy Kraalbai, enjoying a plethora of fun activities, such as fishing, swimming, boating, snorkeling, waterskiing, kayaking, and kitesurfing. You may also want to go sunbathing or enjoy a happy picnic with your loved ones on one of the spectacular beaches here. Take a stroll along the main jetty and click some amazing pictures with a postcard-perfect backdrop.
Lodges and Camps in West Coast National Park
Kraalbaai Lifestyle Houseboats are known popularly for their mesmerizing lagoon views. There are a total of 4 houseboats - The Serenity and Larus House Boats can accommodate 6 guests each, the Eve House Boat can accommodate 8 guests, and the Nirvana House boat can sleep 24 guests. Each houseboat is equipped with a fireplace, a sound system, and a huge deck with chairs and tables.
Amenities: - Open kitchen- Dining area- Balcony- Fireplace
Price: USD 174.57 approx
Must Checkout: South Africa Safari Lodges
Abrahamskraal Cottage happens to be a fully equipped, self-catering, 6 bed cottage with one bedroom with a double bed, two ensuite bedrooms, and one bedroom with 2 single beds and 2 pull-out beds. There is an open plan living area in the cottage, which has a fireplace that can be either used as a fireplace or a braai. Electricity is provided in the cottage with the help of solar power.
Amenities: - Braai facilities- Fireplace- Kitchen- Geyser- Fridge
Price: USD 115 approx
A very spacious and well-maintained property, Langebaan Holiday House has the capacity to accommodate 6 guests, but can sleep 8 people with an additional double bed in the lounge area. The property has a pati and a serene swimming pool and its ground floor offers stunning views of the pristine blue lagoon.
Location: Langebaan
Amenities:- Fireplace- Wifi- Pool table- Swimming pool- Fingerboard- A dart board,
Price: USD 152.74 approx
Built specially to offer an accommodation option to community groups and schools, Geelbek Stables features dormitory-style units that have the capacity to accommodate up to 62 guests. There is a fully functional kitchen that is well-facilitated with all basic utilities including a fridge, microwave, and gas stove. Braai area is also available and guests can get their wood from the information office upon arrival.
Amenities: - Kitchen- Braai Facilities- Hot & cold water supply
Price: USD 130 approx
A self-catering cottage, Jo Anne’s Beach Cottage features a total of 3 en-suite bedrooms and has a capacity to accommodate up to 6 guests. It has a living area and a kitchen that is equipped with a gas stove, fridge, utensils, cupboards, and a serving/eating counter with stools. There are also two braai areas, one in the backyard and the other on the front stoep.
Amenities: - Kitchen- Braai Facilities- Serving/eating area- Fridge- Gas and solar energy- Lounge
Price: approximately $105
Featuring one bedroom with a double bed and one bedroom with two single beds, Jo Anne’s B Cottage is a self-catering cottage with the capacity to accommodate up to 4 guests. The cottage is well-equipped with all kinds of basic utilities, such as linen, crockery, and cutlery. It also features a fully functional kitchen and a spacious dining area for guests to have their meals prepared and eat together.
Amenities: - Kitchen- Dining room- Geyser- Fridge
Price: approximately $110
Plan Your Visit to West Coast National Park
How to Reach
By car/ taxi: The West Coast National Park is situated at an hour’s drive from the heart of Cape Town. You can take north from the city centre and drive along the R27 highway, covering a distance of 62 miles before reaching the national park.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the West Coast National Park is between August and September. This is the time when you can sight whales along the shoreline and also see the beautiful and colourful wildflower blooming in all shades of glory. September is also a good time to go birdwatching and spot a number of migratory birds.
- Hiking boots
- Quick-dry shorts and lightweight long-sleeve shirts
- Sunscreen with good SPF
- A large reusable water bottle
- Poncho or rain jacket
- Camera
- Cash
- Insect repellent
- Hat or cap
- Remember to carry a map of the national park. It will help you find the directions in case of any emergency needs.
- Carry some dry foods and plenty of water as you will have to do a lot of walking and would need to re-energize yourself.
- Wear a sturdy pair of shoes that is suitable for all kinds of terrains.
- To avoid disappointment, remember to book your visit in advance as the national park remains booked almost throughout the year.
- Plan your time in the park wisely. It is a massive area and you will want to cover all the attractions within your limited time.
- Book your tickets online in advance from us and enjoy cost savings.
FAQ’s Of West Coast National Park
What activities can we do at West Coast National Park camps?
One can enjoy a nice BBQ picnic at the West Coast National Park camps with family or friends and keep one engaged in stargazing.
How many days do you need in West Coast National Park?
You need at least 2 days to explore the West Coast National Park. On your two days trip to the national park, you can engage in all the fun activities at the various important places of the park and also stay overnight at one of the lodges to enjoy stargazing at night.
What is the best time of year to visit the West Coast National Park?
The best time to visit the West Coast National Park is between the months of August and September. This is the time when you can sight whales along the shoreline and also see the beautiful and colourful wildflower blooming in all shades of glory.
What facilities will I get in West Coast National Park camps?
- Swimming pool
- Heater
- Air-conditioning
- Towels and linens
- Lagoon view rooms
- Fireplace
- Garden
- En-suite bathrooms
- Tea and coffee marker
- Dining area
- Fully-functional open kitchen
- Fireplace
- Play area and indoor games
Which are the best places to visit in West Coast National Park?
- Geelbek Visitor’s Centre
- Kraalbai
- Geelbek Restaurant
- Eve’s Trail
- Seeberg Viewing Point