The Little Karoo

The Klein Karoo - a magnificient wildlife view

Little Karoo, or as it is locally known the Klein Karoo, is a semi-arid valley surrounded by mountains. At first glance you would be forgiven for thinking the Little Karoo is a barren, dusty and dry tract of land but on closer inspection you will be surprised to see the amounts of life it holds. With dry, hot summers and wet, cold winters, this fertile land is perfect for fruit, wine and livestock farming.

Early European settlers quickly saw the potential of the region and soon the abundant wildlife, which once roamed these vast plains, was all but wiped out to make way for the growing demand of human settlements and agriculture. Today Inverdoorn Game Reserve plays a vital role in the reintroduction of endemic species such as lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo back into the region.

Towns of Interest

A visit to the Little Karoo is a visit into the heart of South African history and culture. Starting in the south with Ceres, the gateway to the Little Karoo, it reaches all the way to the ostrich "capital" and home of The Cango Caves, Oudsthoorn, in the north. The lush, hikers' paradise of Barrydale in the west and the historic town of Uniondale in the east, complete the circumference. With many more historic sites and natural attractions to enjoy in between, this is a very special region indeed.

A Succulent Forest

Inverdoorn Game Reserve is instrumental in the conservation and rehabilitation of endangered species in the Little Karoo and are also custodians of the rich and diverse succulent plant life that the Little Karoo is characterised by. Strange alien shapes, with the tiniest of flowers, or large bulbous cacti with spiky thorns are but a few of the wonders you will discover here. If you are lucky enough to be here during the spring, the Karoo will greet you with a carpet of blooming wildflowers in every imaginable colour.

Stargazing

When the day has passed, the night sky will reveal a few ancient secrets of its own and it is clear why the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere is found in Sutherland, a little deeper into the interior of the Little Karoo. However, you do not need to travel any further than Inverdoorn Game Reserve for a spectacular show of shooting stars.

For more information of sights and attractions in this wonderful region, the Inverdoorn team will be happy to assist.