The dramatic Vanrhyns Pass abruptly lifts you above the arid plains of the Knersvlakte into moister vegetation again. Nieuwoudtville is world famous for its flowers, and the incredible density and diversity of bulbs produces a spring floral display that is arguably as spectacular as that of Namaqualand. Flowerwatching is at its best in the Nieuwoudtville Flower Reserve (3 km east of town on the Calvinia road) and at Glenlyon Wildflower Farm (ask for directions in town). Look out for Clapper Lark (p.116*), Southern Black Korhaan (p.57*) and Grey-wing Francolin in these areas. The Nieuwoudtville Falls, signposted 10 km along the Loeriesfontein road, are also definitely worth a visit. The scrub in the rocky areas surrounding the falls holds an interesting selection of birds, among them Layard’s Titbabbler, Fairy Flycatcher, Pale-winged Starling and even, the occasional Protea Canary (p.57*). Cape Eagle Owl (p.105*) occur here and in other rocky areas in the vicinity, but move around and are not easily seen. Continuing along the main tar road towards Calvinia and, ultimately, Brandvlei, you will notice the landscape becoming markedly more arid, until you reach the semidesert of Bushmanland, north and east of Calvinia. Roadside birds to be on the alert for beyond Nieuwoudtville are Ludwig’s Bustard (p.105*), Booted Eagle, Black Harrier (p.57*) and Greater Kestrel. At Calvinia, check the trees and reeds along the Oorlogskloof River, near the Shell service station, for Namaqua Warbler (p.85*) and African Marsh Warbler (summer). Turn into Hospitaal Street near the big silos and make your way to the nearby Akkerendam Nature Reserve. This is your last chance to see Karoo Lark (look on the plains shortly after you enter the reserve) as, in Bushmanland proper, only the similar but more localized Red Lark occurs. Park near the dam and walk along the broad path that leads into a huge amphitheatre. The hillside scrub along here holds Layard’s Titbabbler, Karoo Prinia, Karoo Robin, Mountain Chat, Cape Bunting and Black-headed Canary, while Fairy Flycatcher, Cape Penduline Tit (p.81) and White-backed Mousebird prefer the taller vegetation along the river-course on the right. This reserve is also an excellent locality for Cinnamon-breasted Warbler (p.85*), which is best searched for on the rocky slopes to the left of the broad path. Scan the skies for Black Eagle, Booted Eagle and Jackal Buzzard.