The Little Karoo, also known as the Klein Karoo, is a semi-desert natural region located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It's situated between the Swartberg mountain range to the north and the Outeniqua Mountains to the south. This long valley, which measures approximately 290 kilometers in length from east to west, is about 60 kilometers at its widest point.
The climate in the Little Karoo is typically semi-arid, characterized by hot summers and cool winters, with minimal rainfall. The landscape is primarily comprised of shrublands and succulent vegetation, along with patches of cultivated lands where crops such as vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards are grown, often irrigated by the few perennial rivers in the region.
The region is known for its scenic beauty, with its vast open landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges, and unique flora and fauna, which attract many tourists. Oudtshoorn, known as the ostrich capital of the world, is the largest town in the Little Karoo and is a popular tourism destination due to its ostrich farms and the impressive Cango Caves.
Despite its arid conditions, the Little Karoo is rich in biodiversity, hosting various species of plants, birds, and small mammals. This region is also known for its cultural heritage, with numerous historical buildings, art galleries, and craft shops that showcase the region's distinct Afrikaans culture and history.
Baylys' Farm 1st Road
Groenfontein Calitzdorp
6660
South Africa