From the Swartberg Pass to the Cango Caves, the Little Karoo offers adventure, wide-open spaces and relaxed country charm, Enjoy its rugged beauty, scenic mountain passes, ostrich farms and wildlife encounters.
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Slip inland from the Garden Route and the scenery changes almost instantly. The Little Karoo opens out into a long, sunlit valley framed by the Swartberg and Langeberg mountains. It’s drier, wilder and expansive. When coastal mist rolls in on the Garden Route side, it is often bright and sunny here, (which can be appealing in the shoulder or winter season.)
Known as the Klein Karoo in Afrikaans, this fertile valley supports the greatest variety of succulent plants anywhere on earth. It is also home to one of South Africa’s most impressive natural sights: the Cango Caves. These vast limestone chambers, sculpted over millions of years, form a subterranean world of soaring stalactites and echoing caverns that never fails to impress. (Check out the Adventure tour option if you are not claustrophobic.)
Little Karoo holidays are wonderfully varied. One day might be spent winding over the spectacular Swartberg Pass to the pretty town of Prince Albert, with far-reaching views into the Great Karoo, or exploring the mysterious hidden valley of Die Hel. Another could involve a long lunch at a working ostrich farm, a visit to a boutique wine estate, or exploring the historic streets of Oudtshoorn, with their “ostrich palaces’.
Families are particularly well catered for, with wildlife encounters at Cango Wildlife Ranch, hands-on farm experiences and gentle outdoor adventures at Wilgewandel Farm.
For those who like to be active, the Little Karoo offers hiking, mountain biking, quad biking and even a light safari experience at nearby game lodges. (Note: View these as an introduction to a safari only.)
Given the driving distances, we recommend at least one overnight stay. Accommodation ranges from characterful country lodges and ostrich farms to small game lodges — making the Little Karoo an ideal addition to a Garden Route holiday if you enjoy variety, scenery and a sense of discovery.
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The Little Karoo lies just inland from the Garden Route, but distances are deceptive. You can visit for the day from Wilderness, George or even Sedgefield. But it’s a long day out from Plettenberg Bay. Ideally stay overnight…
Is the Little Karoo suitable for families?
Yes. The region offers engaging wildlife experiences, outdoor activities and family-friendly lodges, making it an excellent choice for active families.
Can I include a safari experience in the Little Karoo?
Yes. While not a Big Five stronghold, the area offers small game reserves offering plains game that provide a gentle introduction to safari. It’s more an introduction to game-viewing than a proper safari.
Speak to our specialists about weaving the Little Karoo into your Garden Route itinerary for contrast, adventure and space.
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