Carpets of spring flowers poised against a blue lagoon and white sandy beaches

As you drive out of Cape Town, the landscape changes to the delicate, earthy, and unique surroundings that make the West Coast National Park so loved. Its length cradles the Atlantic ocean, boasting views of vivid contrasts between the azure waters and fynbos fauna and flora. Annually between August and September, the rolling hills and open plains are dotted with mesmerising wildflowers in a palette so colourful it will take your breath away. Wetlands in the park make this a bird-watchers paradise, and terrestrial wildlife like eland, oryx and ostrich can be spotted throughout. Just nearby, the famous sky-blue Langebaan lagoon can be found where watersports are popular with locals.

Highlights

1
Witness the annual blooming of the wildflowers in endless capacities.
2
Take a self-drive safari trip through the park to spot animals like eland, gemsbok, and red hartebeest.
3
Spot migrating Southern right whales between September and January.
4
Visit a bird hide in the park and spot an array of species.
5
Walk, jog, and bike through the park while enjoying the nature around you.

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Best time to go to West Coast National Park

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Although this magnificent park is open all year round, its most prominent attraction is the annual blooming of the wildflowers. This natural wonder takes place between August and September, and sometimes lucky visitors may get to see some flowers blooming just before or after these months. The park is open throughout the year, and visitors can take part in various adventurous activities like hiking and biking along trails, or birdwatching. It’s important to know that a section of the park, called the Postberg area, is only open during flower season, making it all the more elusive.