South Africa has some pretty amazing attractions, that's undeniable. But what about some of the lesser-known places. Places without any glitz or glamour - where the sheer simplicity takes your breath away as nature speaks volumes and you're forced to listen.

The Northern Cape is the focus of this year's SA Tourism month in September - so why not lap up the hospitality and affordability on offer by taking in some of these suggestions.

Springbok via Garies and Kamieskroon.

In September, after the first spring rains, see the magnificent flower carpets that nature rolls out across the semi-desert area of Namaqualand.

Kamieskroon to Hondeklip Bay.

Wide open spaces, long, empty beaches, fantastic shore fishing and breathtaking sunsets are the attractions.

Upington to Augrabies Falls National Park.

Head towards the Augrabies Falls from Upington as the spectacular lunar landscape begins to reveal itself.

Springbok to Port Nolloth (via Steinkopf).

About 52 km north of Springbok the road runs west from Steinkopf to Port Nolloth via a magical pass that offers spectacular views of the coast and the sea.

Springbok to the Ais Ais Richtersveld National Park.

This is Big Sky country - open and arid and marked by natural rock formations hewn out of the landscape by the elements; popular with 4 x 4 enthusiasts who like to test their vehicles on the open road.

Springbok to Upington.

Loads of smalltown attractions. There is a beautiful cathedral at Pella, while Pofadder and Kakamas are typical Northern Cape towns. The Augrabies National Park is famous for its iconic falls and wild life.

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Travel along the R360 to this massive wilderness area that is home to the majestic oryx, springbok, eland and other antelope; distances are long and its best to get an early morning start.

Nieuwoudtville to Strandfontein.

Travel via Vanrhynsdorp and Vredendal to view the spring flowers around the Nieuwoudtville area. Strandfontein is noteworthy for its spectacular views and seafood.

The Quiver Tree Forest.

Some 10km south of Kenhardt on the Brandvlei Road you'll find this remarkable forest. It's home to more than 700 of these semi-desert trees. Birders should travel onto Verneukpan, an enormous salt pan renowned for its variety of birdlife.

Upington to Keimoes.

The N14 takes visitors 50km southwest of Upington to Keimoes along a green stretch of landscape - rare in these parts - thanks to the cultivation of sultanas, raisins and peaches.

Source: News24.com - www.news24.com

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