10 Places to Visit in the Big, Wide, Open Great Karoo of South Africa

10 Must-Visit Places in the Great Karoo, South Africa

The Great Karoo is one of South Africa’s most iconic semi-desert regions, stretching across parts of the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Free State. Covering roughly 400,000 km², this vast region is known for its endless plains, flat-topped koppies, sheep farming, and some of the clearest skies in the world.

While many travelers think of the Karoo as just the long stretch along the N1 between Johannesburg and Cape Town, venturing off the main roads reveals stunning scenery, historic towns, unique wildlife, fossils, and star-filled nights that make the region unforgettable.

Here are the top 10 destinations in South Africa’s Great Karoo:

1. Somerset East – The Route of the Blue Crane

Located on the Blue Crane Route, Somerset East is famous for the abundance of Blue Cranes, South Africa’s national bird. Founded in the early 1800s, the town offers rich history, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.

Walter Battiss Museum: Houses the world’s largest collection of Walter Battiss’ art and the fictional Fook Island creations.
Outdoor activities: Mountain biking on Boschberg and fly-fishing in pristine rivers.

2. Nieu-Bethesda

This quaint village in a valley fed by a year-round spring is home to remarkable art and culture.

The Owl House: Created by Helen Martins, it features glittering glass, concrete sculptures, and an unforgettable display of outsider art.
Dustcovers Bookstore: A haven for book lovers amidst the Karoo dust.
Local cuisine: Enjoy artisan goat cheese, kudu salami, and beer at Sneeuberg Brewery & Two Goat’s Deli.

3. Richmond

A paradise for book enthusiasts, Richmond boasts over ten bookshops and hosts the Richmond Book Festival, attracting writers and readers for a weekend of literary celebrations.

4. Karoo National Park

Located near Beaufort West, Karoo National Park is perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The park features:

Wildlife: Kudu, mountain zebra, lion, and wildebeest.
Accommodations: Remote historic shepherd’s cabins, off-grid 4×4 lodgings with solar power and waterholes

5. Theatre Hotel Karoo – Steytlerville

Just outside Steytlerville, this boutique hotel offers luxury Karoo accommodations combined with theatre performances:

Relax under the vast Karoo sky, enjoy a sunset over endless plains, or swim in the pool.
Saturday nights feature a three-course dinner at Grimaldi Theatre Hall and the famous Steytlerville Follies.

6. Williston

A historic Northern Cape town, Williston offers:

Tombstone tours: Explore the cemetery and carved tombstones by Cornelius de Waal.
Williston Mall: A unique combination of tavern, restaurant, store, and theater with local history and artifacts.

7. Prince Albert

A charming oasis in the Karoo plains, Prince Albert draws artists and history enthusiasts alike:

Explore Victorian architecture, art galleries, local restaurants, and scenic drives.
Activities: Ghost Tours and Astro Tours to marvel at the starry Karoo sky.

8. Matjiesfontein

A Victorian-era village preserved since the 1800s, Matjiesfontein is a national heritage site:

Stay at the Lord Milner Hotel and explore Transport and Victoriana Museums.
Enjoy historic train rides, red London buses, and serene Karoo gardens.

9. Philippolis

Located in the Free State Karoo, Philippolis is the oldest settlement in the region:

Explore historic architecture, the Laurens van der Post Memorial Centre, and Oom Japie se Huis with its bookstore and restaurant.
Learn about historical figures like Adam Kok, Emily Hobhouse, and Sir Laurens van der Post.

10. Karoo Mountain Biking Adventures

For active travelers, the Karoo offers world-class mountain biking:

Trans Baviaans MTB Race: A 230 km single-stage endurance race from Willowmore to Jeffrey’s Bay.
The Munga: A 1,000 km ultra-endurance race through the dust and heat of the Karoo.

Explore the Great Karoo

From historic towns and Victorian villages to wildlife safaris, art, and extreme mountain biking, the Great Karoo is a treasure trove for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. Plan your South Africa Karoo tour today to experience its stunning landscapes, history, and starry nights.