Places to Stay in Kakamas, Northern Cape, South Africa

Geography

Kakamas lies about 82km southwest of Upington along the N14, in a fertile valley of the Lower Orange River.

History

Kakamas became a proper settlement in 1898 under the auspices of the Dutch Reformed Church and soon developed into an agricultural centre. It became a municipality in 1954. Although hotly debated, the town's name originates from either a Koranna word meaning "poor pasture" or "vicious, charging ox". It was here that the Koranna were stormed by a fierce buffalo cow as they were driving their cattle through the drift. The town was initially established as a colony for livestock farmers who had been bankrupted by an extended drought, and each was given a plot of land irrigated by canals and tunnels that were subsequently built. The plan worked, as today Kakamas is a peaceful town graced with vineyards, cotton and lucerne fields. The town played a role in World War I, when South Africa joined forces with Britain against the Germans, and invaded German South West Africa from the town. Thankfully, peace returned, and has remained like that to this day.

Arts and Culture

For the traveller interested in archaeology and the early history of South Africa, conical Khoe graves, some of which are as high as 2m, can be found west of Kakamas. For a glimpse into more modern history, visitors can have a look at the memorial commemorating the World War I Battle of Kakamas in 1915, where the Germans lost seven men.

Science

Several water wheels, built by Piet Burger, based on an ancient Egyptian design, are still in operation. A series of canals driven by the water wheels irrigate the trees. The wonderful hot dry climate is perfect for the growing of grapes for both raisins and the table. Kakamas is also known for the canning variety of peach known as the Collins. Interestingly, one single Kakamas peach tree is the common ancestor of 75<\#37> of all the trees supplying the South African peach canning industry!

Entertainment

Tourists can visit the Riemvasmaak Hot Springs situated in a deep ravine 56km northwest of Kakamas. This relatively unknown natural phenomenon, with its stark contrast between the desert and the warm mineralized water, is reputedly excellent for healing aches and pains. Amazing drives can be taken through this almost surreal section of South Africa, and the landscape along the Rockery Route following the gravel road from Neilersdrift to Kakamas via the Nues Wier is simply stunning. Back in Kakamas itself there is wine tasting and tours offered at the Orange River Wine Cellars Co-operative.

Did You Know

The Kakamas Museum housed at the Transformer Building was the first hydroelectric power station in South Africa. Its interesting design is based on an Egyptian one because Kakamas and Egypt are equidistant from the equator.