Photographer Greta Rybus shares where to go on the Wildflower Route this summer.

In August 2022, Maine-based photojournalist Greta Rybus set out to capture the fields of flora.

Every part of the world has its own palette, she says.

Views of wildflowers in Biedouw Valley

“Set between the Biedouw and Tra-Tra mountain ranges, Biedouw Valley is home to flame-colored daisy subspecies, from golden mountain marigolds to reddish beetle daisies,” says Greta Rybus.Credit:Greta Rybus

I notice the way soil, plants, and sky change from place to place.

It amazes me when the land starts to transform, turning green before the flowers bloom.

That color signals hope to me.

Pair of photos from the Clanwilliam Flower Church, including details of the interior displays, and curator Pam Engelbrech sitting outside the church

Greta Rybus

They replant them inside the Harvester Reformational Church so people in town can enjoy them, too.

I met Pam Engelbrecht, a member of the Wildflower Club, who was helping decorate the church."

They carefully monitor flora and fauna, protecting rare plants from being trampled and warding off poachers."

A man walking through a path of golden orange wildflowers in South Africa’s Namaqua National Park

Greta Rybus

Travelers come for the incredible stargazing and to see 6,000-year-old rock art by the early San and Khoikhoi peoples.

For more info about wildflowers, visit theSouth African National Biodiversity Institute.

Pair of photos, one showing two women who work as park rangers, and one showing wildflowers in a field

Greta Rybus

Pair of photos showing details of wildflowers in South Africa

Greta Rybus

Pair of photos, one showing flowers on the palm of a hand, and one showing Eugene Marinus

Greta Rybus

Photo of hotel accommodation carved into rocks in South Africa

Greta Rybus