Exploring the Quiver Tree Forest near Nieuwoudtville: A Unique South African Treasure
A sunset at the Quiver Tree Forest at Gannabos Farm, near Nieuwoudtville
Nestled near the quaint town of Nieuwoudtville in South Africa's Northern Cape province lies a remarkable natural phenomenon: the Quiver Tree Forest at the Gannabos Farm. Known for its otherworldly landscape and unique flora, this extraordinary site has become a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers. The place is not very far from Cape Town, and for people who want to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions, this is a perfect drive to explore the country's biodiversity. In this travel blog, I give you the following:
Directions to get there, permit and accommodation advice
Photos
Additional tips
Just a quick hello: I am Muji and so glad you stopped by! I am a passionate writer, photographer, and filmmaker living in beautiful Cape Town, South Africa.
What is the Quiver Tree?
The quiver tree, or Aloe dichotoma, is a striking succulent that has adapted beautifully to the arid environment of Southern Africa. These trees can grow up to nine meters tall and are characterized by their slender, branched trunks and spiky, yellow-green leaves. Their unique shape has earned them the nickname "quiver tree," as the indigenous San people historically used their hollowed-out branches to create quivers for arrows.
How to get Gannabos Quiver Tree Forest
The quiver tree forest is located at a private farm called Gannabos. In the past, tourists and photographers like myself had free access to the forest at any hour of the day. Now, however, they have time restrictions, photography restrictions, drone restrictions, and an entry fee because visitors were not following the rules, which is sad.
To visit the Quiver Tree Forest at Gannabos Farm from Cape Town, follow these directions:
Drive north on the N7: Depart Cape Town and travel 350 km to Vanrhynsdorp.
Take the R27 to Nieuwoudtville: From Vanrhynsdorp, drive 50 km. Remember to stop at Baghdad Cafe for yummy pancakes, coffee, and food. Enjoy the cafe's antique vibe; it’s part of the journey. Also, stop at the top of Vanrhyns Pass and admire the majestic view of the vast land.
Head to Loeriesfontein: Continue 25 km from Nieuwoudtville.
Find the Gannabos turnoff: Look for signs along the road.
Arrive at Gannabos Farm: Visit the Quiver Tree Forest.
Bagdad Cafe on the way to Nieuwoudtville.
Vanrhyns Pass - Northern Cape, South Africa
The total journey from Cape Town covers around 425 kilometers and typically takes 5 to 6 hours by car. It's advisable to start early to ensure ample time for rest stops and to enjoy the scenic drive. You could always book accommodation in the quaint town of Nieuwoudtville, which is called the bulb capital of the world due to the diversity of the flora and fauna in the area. In spring, the area blooms with millions of colourful flowers. There are also glacial plates near Nieuwoudtville, which are worth visiting for lovers of geography.
Thousands of Quiver Trees at Gannabos Farm - Blooming Flowers in Spring
Additional Tips:
Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel, as petrol stations may be sparse along certain stretches.
Accommodation: Gannabos Farm offers guest accommodations, providing convenient access to the Quiver Tree Forest, but you can also stay at Nieuwoudtville, which has plenty of accommodation choices. I usually stay at one of the lovely Van Zijl Guesthouses and go to their restaurants for food and drinks. Mr Van Zijl is getting old, but he is an interesting character with extensive knowledge about the area. It’s good to strike up a conversation with him.
Shopping: There is a Spar in Nieuwoudtville where you can buy groceries.
Fuel: There is also a garage/fuel pump/petrol pump at Nieuwoudtville, but it has limited hours.
Cash or Credit Card: I suggest taking a thousand Rand or two in case the pump’s credit card machines are not working or you want to buy food or souvenirs from the locals. Also, you might need cash for the permits for the forest and the waterfall if they pump water in the winter months.
Best Visiting Time: The quiver trees bloom between May and July, offering a spectacular display.
Permit Requirements: A permit costing R250 per person is required to access the forest between 18:00 and 06:00. Guests staying at Gannabos have complimentary access during these hours.
Quiver Trees can be a few meters tall
A Walk Through the Forest
The Quiver Tree Forest near Nieuwoudtville has thousands of these enchanting trees. When the soft light casts intricate shadows among the trunks at sunrise and sunset, they create a surreal, exceptionally breathtaking landscape. Visitors can stroll through the forest along designated paths, marveling at the trees' twisted forms, which starkly contrast to the surrounding rocky terrain and rolling hills.
A photo from when night photography was allowed at Gannabos Farm - Milky Way over the quiver trees
Biodiversity and Ecosystem
The Quiver Tree Forest is not just a spectacle of quiver trees; it is also an important ecosystem. The area boasts a rich diversity of plant and animal life, many of which are endemic to the region. The forest provides a habitat for various bird species, such as the brightly colored sugarbird and the elusive Cape bunting. In the spring, the surrounding landscapes explode with vibrant wildflowers, adding bursts of color to the already picturesque scenery.
Gannabos Quiver Tree Forest at Sunset
Cultural Significance
The quiver tree is culturally significant to the San people and is often featured in their folklore. The tree represents resilience and adaptability, qualities essential for survival in the harsh landscapes of the Northern Cape. Visitors to the forest are encouraged to learn about the quiver tree's history and cultural importance, deepening their appreciation for this unique ecosystem.
The Quiver Tree Forest is easily accessible from Nieuwoudtville, making it an ideal day trip for those exploring the Northern Cape, South Africa.
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Kind regards
Muji
Quiver Tree Forest - Northern Cape, South Africa.
