The Central Karoo, a vast landscape broken only by solitary flat-topped koppies, is a place of ever changing moods – sometimes placid, sometimes rather sinister – where the silence is often so intense that it can be felt and little more is audible than the whisper of the wind and the squeaking of a lone windmill. Millions of years ago, these ancient plains were part of a vast inland lake and swamp system, teeming with early life forms. Dinosaurs roamed these parts for 125 million years and then suddenly they were gone and a quietness settled over the land. Today only their fossilized remains are the testimony to their ever having been there. The Central Karoo is an arid region, but when the rains come it turns green overnight and the beautiful flowers spring to life everywhere. Although most travelers passing through hardly consider the Karoo as a holiday destination, there is something special about this desolate region that must be experienced to be appreciated.

Towns

Beaufort West, Laingsburg, Leeu Gamka, Matjiesfontein, Prince Albert

Accommodation in and around Central Karoo