The name Karoo is derived from the Hottentot word "thirstland" and indicates that water has always been scarce in this region. The region depends mostly on underground water resources. At first this part of the Western Cape may seem uninteresting, but it is one of the most fascinating scientific regions of the world. It is rich in stone-age sites and is a geological and palaeontological paradise. This region is a panorama of plains, mountains, rocky hills and dry river beds with sparse vegetation in summer, but is filled with grasses and green shrubs in winter. The night sky is crisp and clear, a stargazer's wonderland. The Karoo National Park just outside Beaufort West, brings one closer to the ancient world, where you can follow a fossil trail and view the stunning rock formations this region offers.

You'll be fascinated by rich golden dawns and the colours as the sun brushes over the plains and the mountains. Welcome a afternoon thunderstorm and smell the first drops of rain as they fall to the ground or watch the cloud shadows as they dance over golden plains...