Things To Do
in Kakamas
Kakamas is a small town in the Northern Cape of South Africa, set on the banks of the Orange River. It is a hub for citrus and grape farming, with a friendly, laid-back community. The town serves as a gateway to natural wonders like Augrabies Falls National Park and scenic river valleys.
The arid yet fertile landscape around Kakamas creates vivid contrasts of red clay, green orchards, and clear blue skies.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional South African cuisine. After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the nearby Augrabies Falls National Park, where you can witness the awe-inspiring cascades and indulge in the beautiful natural surroundings. Capture stunning photographs of the park's unique flora and fauna while hiking some of the marked trails.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Following lunch, consider a visit to the nearby Kakamas Wine Cellars for an afternoon of wine tasting, where you can sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process. Engage with the friendly staff to discover more about the region's unique grape varieties and terroir.
After a fulfilling day, return to Kakamas and dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like braai and bobotie. As you enjoy your meal, take in the vibrant atmosphere and possibly participate in some local entertainment. End the evening with a leisurely stroll along the Vaal River, soaking in the peaceful ambiance under the stars.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Kakamas Art Gallery, where you can admire and purchase works by local artists. Engage with the artists if possible, and learn about the cultural influences that shape their creativity. After exploring the gallery, head to a local market for some artisan crafts and a taste of fresh produce.
Post-lunch, take a guided cultural tour of the nearby San Bushman village, where you can learn about their rich heritage and traditional lifestyle. Engage with the community members, as they share captivating stories and demonstrate ancient skills such as rock art painting and beadwork. Make sure to capture the moments, but always ask for permission first.
For dinner, try a traditional African restaurant that offers a variety of local dishes. Afterward, attend a local cultural performance in town to immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional music and dance. Wind down the evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥤Soft drink or coffee | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly essentials) | $25-60 |
| 🚗Local transport or fuel | $2-10 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic, and family-friendly experiences
- Gateway to Augrabies Falls and river-based activities
- Limited nightlife and dining options after hours
- Distances between attractions require a car
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goeie môre" - Good morning
- "Baie dankie" - Thank you very much
- "Hoeveel kos dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Waar is die naaste apteek?" - Where is the nearest pharmacy?
Places to Visit in Kakamas
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic waterfall with mist, rainbow spray on sunny days, and dramatic gorge backdrops.
Golden-hour views along the river with palm-lined banks and reflections of the sky on the water.
Rows of fruit trees and vineyards, especially photogenic during harvest season.
Food in Kakamas
Kakamas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat prepared over an open flame, often served with pap or potatoes and a fresh salad.
Must-Try!
A traditional slow-cooked stew prepared in a cast-iron pot, rich with vegetables and meat.
Spiced vegetable relish served with mielie pap, a staple in rural South Africa.
Grilled sausage in a soft bread roll, with onions and relish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh citrus, grapes, dried fruit, artisanal breads, and street snacks.
River-edge stalls with local produce, snacks, and crafts; best during harvest season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting is appreciated; avoid raising voices in public; Afrikaans and English are commonly used.
In rural areas, modest dress is appreciated; during braais, wait your turn and offer to help with grilling.
Safety
Tipping in Kakamas
Ensure a smooth experience
In South Africa, a tip of 10-15% is common in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. Taxis and guides may appreciate rounding up.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in towns; carry some cash for markets and smaller shops. ATMs are available in Kakamas and Upington.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with high UV; carry water, wear sunscreen, and seek shade. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
Mild days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor activities and photography at golden-hour.
Cool evenings, occasional fog; mornings can be crisp but days are usually sunny.
Warm days, fresh blooms, and active birdlife; great for hiking and river activities.
Kakamas at Night
Hiking in Kakamas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails with viewpoints of the falls and the surrounding canyon.
River canyon hikes offering sweeping views over the river and farms.
Airports
How to reach Kakamas by plane.
Regional airport about 140-180 km from Kakamas with flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Smaller airport roughly 350-400 km away; alternative gateway with domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest groups in Kakamas; influences local culture and language.
Alongside Afrikaans, a mix of languages reflects the region's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in the region, with local clubs and seasonal matches.
Widely followed; you may catch amateur games in towns nearby.
Kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in safe river sections.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kakamas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants. Look for salads, grilled vegetables, mielie pap, and plant-based dishes; always confirm if broths or sauces contain meat.