Forces of nature: amazing pictures

These spectacular photographs capture nature’s raw power, a marvelous celebration of our planet’s awe-inspiring beauty.

We’re always amazed at nature’s power, especially when we see images like this. This blog showcases the incredible power of nature’s elements in all their glory. Scroll down, have a look, and tell us what you think!

Rivers in Spate

The impressive waterfall in Augrabies Falls National Park. Picture by Steven Smith

Few sights are as awesome as seeing the 56 m Augrabies Falls when the Orange River is in full flood. The thundering waters attract people from far and wide who come to marvel at the powerful falls. Picture by Johann Visser

Snow

Pictures courtesy of SANParks

You don’t have to go abroad to see snow-covered landscapes! South Africa’s colder winters often bring snow to our higher peaks. You may also be lucky and see our parks covered in snow. Snow fell in Golden Gate and in the Karoo National Park in 2012 and in the Tankwa Karoo in 2010. June also brought snow once again to the Karoo National Park and hail to Cape Town and its surrounds in 2013!

Waves

Powerful waves are a sight to behold along our coastlines. This photo of a big wave was taken in Kalk Bay in the marine protected area of Table Mountain National Park and shows the massive force of water as it hits the harbour wall.

Great waves of the Indian Ocean pound against the shores of the 75km coastline of Tsitsikamma National Park. Picture by Clive Evian

Waterfalls

Tugela Falls is the world’s second highest waterfall at 948m high.The sensational falls are located in our very own Royal Natal National Park and can be accessed via two different hiking routes that offer splendid views of the Drakensberg.

Lightning

Summer in the Kgalagadi welcomes dramatic thunderstorms that light up the skies and create magnificent scenery against the dune-covered landscapes. Photographers can enjoy capturing scenes such as the above picture taken by Shane Saunders.

Ice

Alpine enthusiasts don’t have to venture far to test their climbing skills. The Drakensberg offers the opportunity to go climbing along its winter routes which include three main climbing zones: Sani Pass, Giant’s Castle and Rhino Peak. The ice forms every year with suitable conditions from mid-June through to mid-August.