Fascinating Karoo magic that gets you a little lost

"The only people who ever get anyplace interesting are the people who get lost”

- Henry Davin Thoreau –

The Karoo is certainly one of these interesting places to get lost in. This magical region represents a stretch of semi-desert land in South Africa, a fascinating landscape interrupted by hilltops, rivers and quaint farms  – and of course home to the cleanest air and darkest night skies.

It’s the harsh beauty of the Karoo, the open spaces and the unique sparkling skies that touch your heart and encourage you to “just be”.  The beauty of “Nothingness” invites to reflect and truly appreciate the present moment with all thoughts and senses.

It seems that in the so-called post Covid era, people look for this kind of experience more than ever –

Let go, let the mind rest, be one with nature, enjoy freedom, don’t take yourself too serious and just be!

Buddha wisely said

“Do not stay in the past, do not dream about the future. Focus on the present moment.” 

The timeless ambiance of the Karoo makes it easy to do just that!  It’s the spirit of leaving behind unnecessary baggage that fills the clear and unpolluted air of the Karoo.

The Karoo, the so called “thirsty land” compromises of the “Klein” (small) Karoo in the South and “Groot” (great) Karoo in the North, divided by the famous Swartberg Mountain Range.  The region straddles the Western- and Northern Cape, hosts many microclimates and is known for its extreme temperatures with hot summers and extremely cold winters.  Many breathtaking mountain passes invite for slow travel road trips along the Cape’s most scenic Country Routes.

This intriguingly charming region (no wonder they refer to it as a “she”!) is the perfect place to unwind, refresh the soul and even stay a little longer for a relaxed workcation. The region invites to gaze at the stars, go for long walks and nature hikes, listen to the birds and track down the Shy Five.  It’s here where you can take your bike or a lightweight 4x4 to explore new routes and dip into refreshing natural rock pools to wash off the dust.

If you feel like taking a break from nature, the modern lifestyle calls you to sip on a glass of wine at one of the boutique country wine farms producing some of the best South African wines, or admire the creative talent showcased at the many beautiful art galleries in the area.  It is a place that has inspired artists, writers, photographers and other creative talents throughout the centuries.

End the day off with a sundowner overlooking the vast African land, followed by a hearty meal that had been prepared by the most hospitable people of the so called “Platteland” (countryside) using fresh and seasonal produce of the region.

Then…after exploring this interesting place and getting a little lost in the vast spaces that may have initially felt a bit overwhelming, in the true silence that may have initially felt a little daunting, it’s time to find yourself again, tackle the challenges that may present themselves in a more collected and grounded manner and be inspired for the next adventure! 

Our most magic hidden gems in the Karoo:

• Rogge Cloof - Sutherland (Northern Cape)
• Wildehondekloof Private Game Reserve - Swartberg Region (Western Cape)
• New Holme Nature Lodge - Khoisan Karoo Conservancy (Northern Cape)