Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
Put a spring back in your step
Riemvasmaak Hot Springs, Northern Cape
One of the Riemvasmaak pools
© Chris Marais
Did you know?
The name Riemvasmaak, which means 'tie a piece of leather tightly', comes from the Khoi word 'konkaib', which also means ‘to tie leather thongs'.
The Riemvasmaak Hot Springs are located in a deep ravine bordered by 80m-high granite cliffs, north of the Augrabies Falls, about 60km from the small Northern Cape town of Kakamas.
The area known as Riemvasmaak spans 75 000ha of rugged and remote desert-mountain wilderness between the Orange and Molopo rivers and is very remote – it's an area known for its rugged wilderness.
The Riemvasmaak Hot Springs are the product of volcanic eruptions. Though these have long since ceased, deep underground activity still heats the waters of these springs.
The soulful space in which the two pools are situated is made up of magnificent, lunar-like surroundings; unique vegetation that is marked by indigenous camel thorn and shepherd’s trees; and wildlife that includes creatures from hyraxes (also known as 'dassies') to antelope and baboon. Raptors such as the Verreaux and fish eagle breed here, while pale-winged starlings are prolific.
Accommodation is available in cleverly designed self-catering chalets that blend into the rocky surrounds and offer great views. Once without electricity, they are now equipped with power and hot water, but visitors are advised to bring drinking water, food and towels.
Arrangements can be made at the local tourism office for meals. One can also arrange to have a meal at a local home and spend time with the people of Riemvasmaak village.
Other than the natural hot springs, tourists are drawn to Riemvasmaak by its 4x4 trails and scenic hiking trails.
Under apartheid policies during the 1960s, the inhabitants of Riemvasmaak were split up and forcibly relocated to areas a long distance away, while their lands were taken by the then-South African Defence Force for use as a military training ground.
After democracy in 1994, the Riemvasmaakers reclaimed their lands, making history by lodging the first land-restitution case in the new South Africa.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Riemvasmaak Tourism
Clarissa Damara
Tel: +27 (0)73 383 8812 or + 27 (0)83 873 7715
How to get here
From Upington take the N14 towards Keimoes and then Kakamas. It is well signposted. The distance is just over 100km, and should take approx. 1-2 hours.
Around the area
Visit the Augrabies Falls, where the Orange River thunders down a 60m waterfall.
Tours to do
The nearby town of Kakamas, built by stock farmers at the end of the 19th century, is interesting, with its old hydro-electrical power station resembling an Egyptian temple, a memorial shaped as an obelisk, and German war graves.
Get around
Having your own car will give you the freedom to move around. Hiring a 4x4 is a good idea as there are various rough-terrain trails in the area.
What will it cost
The chalets cost R375 per unit per night; the campground costs R85 for your vehicle and 2 persons per night – for each extra person there is an additional charge of R15.
Length of stay
Riemvasmaak is a 2- to 3-day destination.
What to pack
You need to be well prepared to visit Riemvasmaak as there is limited access to facilities and amenities. Take along firewood, food and beverages, fuel and personal items.
Where to stay
Air-conditioned chalets are available. Camping is also an option.
What to eat
The community at Riemvasmaak can prepare a traditional meal – this needs to be organised in advance. For the rest, this is your chance to indulge in South Africa's favourite pastime: the braai (barbecue).
What's happening
Check the listed Northern Cape website for events in the area during your stay.
Best buys
Fresh and dried fruit from farm stalls in the area.
