A Karoo Farm with a Rich History

Hey there! Have you ever heard of the Karoo Farm? Well, let me tell you, it’s an amazing place with a lot of history! I recently visited and I felt like I went back in time. Let me share my experience with you.

When I arrived at the Karoo Farm, I was immediately struck by its beauty. The landscape was vast and filled with breathtaking views. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. It’s like the farm was a time capsule, preserving the stories of those who came before us.

As I explored the farm, I discovered old buildings and artifacts that told tales of a bygone era. The well-preserved farmhouse, with its creaky wooden floors and vintage furniture, made me wonder what life was like for the people who lived here. It was like stepping into a history book!

But it wasn’t just the buildings that fascinated me. The Karoo Farm is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. I saw birds soaring in the sky, and I even caught a glimpse of a rabbit darting into the bushes. It made me realize just how connected we are to nature and how important it is to respect and preserve it.

One of the most memorable parts of my visit was meeting the people who work on the farm. They were incredibly kind and passionate about their work. It was inspiring to see their dedication to preserving the history of the farm and sharing it with others.

If you’re looking for a unique and immersive experience, I highly recommend visiting the Karoo Farm. It’s a place where you can step back in time and connect with the past. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Karoo Farm has something for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to the Karoo Farm and create your own memories. You won’t be disappointed!

Step into the enchanting world of Ganora, where the ancient whispers of a 250-million-year-old story echo through rolling Karoo hills. As I walk across the farm, a sense of awe washes over me. With every turn, that majestic, spiky mountain commands my attention, its presence felt from every angle, a constant reminder of the timeless beauty that surrounds.

A charming Karoo farm like Ganora is a gateway to discovery, a realm where history and adventure entwine. From the moment I step foot on this hallowed ground, I am filled with a deep curiosity to unravel its secrets.

What makes Ganora so unique is its rich natural heritage and the incredible fossils it holds. These fossils, dating back millions of years, are like messages preserved in stone, offering a glimpse into the past. It’s truly mind-boggling to think about the vastness of time and the slow, patient work of nature that has shaped this land.

The journey through Ganora continues as I encounter the local wildlife that calls this place home. In the quiet of the early morning, I am greeted by the melodies of numerous bird species. Their songs paint a vivid symphony against the backdrop of an endless sky.

As I delve deeper into the farm, I’m captivated by the indigenous plants that thrive here. Their resilience is a testament to the harsh yet nurturing environment of the Karoo. The diversity of colors and scents makes every step a sensory delight, a reminder of the wonders nature has to offer.

But Ganora is more than just a treasure trove of natural wonders. It’s a place where stories come alive, where the past intertwines with the present. Each building on the farm has a tale to tell, a chapter from a long-forgotten book. The walls whisper secrets, and the antique furnishings transport me to a different era.

Exploring Ganora is like opening a door to another world. The farm trails beckon me to wander, to lose myself in the vastness of the Karoo landscape. Whether I choose to hike or bike, revelations await around every bend, reminding me of the infinite possibilities that lie outside the bounds of my everyday life.

In this tranquil haven, time slows down, allowing me to reconnect with nature and myself. The stress and worries of the modern world melt away, replaced by a sense of calm and belonging. I find solace in the simplicity of life here, where the rhythm of the land guides my every step.

So, if you’re seeking an escape, a chance to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature and uncover the mysteries of the past, Ganora is the perfect destination. Let the magic of this Karoo farm envelop you, as it has done for countless others. Step into the embrace of time and embark on a journey that will leave you forever changed.

Words: Julienne du Toit Photos: Chris Marais

At Ganora’s farm, you’ll find a variety of attractions to enjoy. We offer comfortable guest accommodation, a shearing shed where you can witness the age-old tradition of sheep shearing, and even a fascinating fossil museum. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a refreshing swim in our dam, which is open to all our guests. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful sheep paddocks surrounding the farmstead.

The Compassberg is an absolute marvel of nature. Rising proudly as the highest peak in the Karoo, this towering ironstone formation stands 2,504 meters high. It shatters any preconceived notions that the Karoo is a flat, arid landscape. Instead, it showcases the true diversity and grandeur of this magnificent region.

Often compared to the iconic Matterhorn, the Compassberg held great significance for early explorers and settlers as a landmark for navigation. Its imposing presence helped guide many a weary traveler through the rugged terrain of the Karoo.

But the Compassberg is not only a navigational aid; it’s also a thriving ecosystem. One of its notable inhabitants is the rare Compassberg skolly, a butterfly found nowhere else in the world. This delicate creature adds another layer of enchantment to the already magical landscape.

When you gaze upon the Compassberg, you’ll notice an interesting contrast between its impressive features and the surrounding vegetation. In the foreground, you’ll often see rows upon rows of large, blue-green plants. These striking plants further enhance the beauty and charm of the Compassberg landscape.

When I was hiding from British soldiers on Ganora, I spent many lonely months. I remember taking a rock and carving out this figure. It was a way to pass the time and leave my mark in a place that felt so remote.

Now, let me share a little secret with you about this place, the Karoo. Those plants growing here, officially called Agave americana, hold a special power. You see, they can be crushed and distilled into a drink that will transport you straight to Mexico with its kick and flavor. But we have to be careful with our words; the World Trademark police are always on the lookout for those who dare say ‘tequila’ outside of its rightful domain.

JP Steynberg, the farmer here at Ganora, is a man of many passions. One of them, perhaps unexpected, is palaeontology. He discovered a treasure trove of fossils right here on this farm when he stumbled upon a thick band of fossil-rich mudstone next to the clear Wilge River. It was a moment that changed his life and shaped his destiny.

When you stay at Ganora Guest Farm, one of the highlights is going on a veld walk with JP. He’ll take you back in time, more than 250 million years ago, when creatures like the fearsome gorgonopsian roamed these lands. He’ll show you the very spot where one of them met its end, sinking into the muddy ground, only to be turned to stone over countless ages.

Take a ride or stroll down a rural path and stop beneath a spinning windpump.

The gorgonopsian lived during a time when certain cold-blooded reptiles were evolving into warm-blooded proto-mammals, approximately 50 million years before Jurassic dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

When I look at artists’ depictions of the gorgonopsian, I see a peculiar creature with an awkward waddling gait and long fang-like teeth. It’s almost like a cross between a crocodile and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. It’s hard to believe that such unattractive creatures could be distant relatives of mine, but the experts are quite certain about it.

So, here’s what happens: first, I’ll show you the beautiful little museum they made in an old building. It’s really cool because the porch is covered in stones that still have the marks from the ancient rivers of the Karoo. When you go inside, you’ll see all kinds of interesting things, like artifacts from the San Bushman, tools made out of stone, broken pieces of pottery, and tons and tons of fossils. They even have the skulls, jaws, and leg bones from animals that don’t exist anymore. It’s pretty impressive!

Hey there! I’m Guide Henry Witbooi, and I’m all about Karoo plants that have medicinal properties. I recently had the pleasure of accompanying a family from Jeffreys Bay on a tour.

Let me tell you about the star of our collection – it’s an incredible fossil fish called Kompasia delaharpi. This fish is super special because it’s the only one of its kind in the whole world. What makes it even more amazing is that it’s completely intact, with its scales and stubby fins perfectly preserved. It was actually discovered by Louis and Renier, the sons of JP and Hester Steynberg, right here in Ganora.

Right by the farmhouse, there’s this tiny little overhang that has a really interesting background. Many, many years ago, it was a sacred spot for the San Bushman shamans. They used it for ceremonies and rituals, and even left behind these fascinating ochre images. One of them shows an eland with a snake head – pretty wild, right? Then there’s a man with a wolfish head and a faint figure of a lion being attacked by people armed with bows and arrows. Oh, and there’s a cool one of a tortoise too! It’s actually the only known San Bushman painting of a tortoise in the entire country. And if that’s not enough, there are also some more recent artwork by Khoi San groups.

Imagine this: high above the cave, there’s something really special from a war a long time ago. It’s a strong reminder of the Anglo Boer War. Back then, the British made the Davel family leave their home and go to a place called Port Alfred. But the youngest Davel, who everyone called ‘JA,’ didn’t want to go. So he ran away and hid on Ganora Farm.

Long ago, the San Bushmen painted these mysterious figures on a rocky overhang, according to Ganora guide Henry Witbooi.

This young boy, during his hours of solitude, carved a woman praying before a crucifix in the sandstone above the overhang. He added these heartfelt words:
‘We will never be able to show our love for each other until we are in heaven, when it will be too late.’

And at supper in the shearing shed, JP Steynberg will share a fascinating story. He will show you an aerial photograph of the old farmstead hanging on the wall.

‘Here’s the story (I always love it when Karoo farmers start like this): during the 1930s, the Germans flew over South Africa at a great height and took aerial photographs of every square inch of the country.’

So, get this: I heard a crazy story about some tourists who visited the Karoo and had a brilliant idea to make some money. Apparently, they went around taking pictures of the local farmers’ properties and then had the audacity to sell framed prints of those very properties back to the farmers themselves! Can you believe it?

I mean, talk about resourcefulness! These folks saw an opportunity and seized it. They must have known that people take great pride in their land, and what better way to capitalize on that than by offering them a framed snapshot of their own property? It’s genius!

And guess what? The farmers actually bought these prints! I guess they were either taken aback by the audacity of it all or genuinely pleased to have a framed representation of their land. I can’t help but wonder how the tourists managed to convince the farmers to part with their hard-earned money. It’s quite a tale, don’t you think?

Anyway, the point is, there are so many ways to make some extra cash in the Karoo. It’s like a goldmine for opportunities. Even if you’re a German spy with a camera, apparently! I’m starting to think maybe I should pack up and head over there myself.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of a side hustle, just remember this story. Look for those unexpected avenues of income, because sometimes the most unusual ideas can be the most lucrative. And who knows, maybe you’ll stumble upon your own unique business opportunity while exploring the beautiful Karoo.

Welcome to Doornberg Guest Farm!

Hey there, I’m happy to introduce myself – I’m Chris, and together with my partner Julienne, we are the proud publishers of karoospace.co.za.

Let’s Stay Here

Experience Ganora Guest Farm Camping & Excursions

Starting from just R150 per person, you can enjoy a camping adventure or share a room for R560 per person, breakfast included! Give us a call at 082 698 0029 or 049 841 1302, or visit our website at ganora.co.za to book your lovely stay.

Other Amazing Options for You

Looking for something different? Check out Doornberg Guest Farm & Wedding Venue. With prices starting at R360 per person for self-catering, or sharing for R440 per person – breakfast included! Want to know more? Reach out to us at 082 308 637, or visit doornberg.co.za for more details.

Hey there, welcome to The Ibis Lounge!

You’re in for a treat at The Ibis Lounge
From only R400 per person sharing, you can enjoy our fantastic self-catering accommodation. And if you’re in the mood to indulge, our bed and breakfast option is available at R600 per person sharing.
Give us a call at 072 110 6254 or visit our website at theibislounge.co.za for more information.

Experience the magic of Nieu-Bethesda village
Whether you’re a camping enthusiast or prefer the comfort of cottages and rooms, we have something for everyone. Prices start at R110 per person for camping and go up to R800 per person sharing for our top-notch accommodations.
Contact us at 049 841 1642 or 072 742 7113. You can also visit nieu-bethesda.com to learn more.