The story of a Karoo farm in Africa

When the rhythm of the day transforms from sunset to dusk over the expansive plains of the mesmerizing Karoo and the omnipresent birdsong of sunshine slowly fades, you’ll soon know it’s not the end of the day that matters, but the promise of a new dawn that awaits.

Nestled in the plains of the Karoo you’ll discover paradise, your piece of heaven on earth. An African farm that lets you dream your days away and before you know it, a sunset of promise will remind you that another daybreak will bring more adventures, more excitement, more life-worth-living.

This is where you’ll find our small village of happiness. This is where we work hard to re-establish game that has always called this place home. Animals roam free here and when it rains, everyone is nose-in-the-air to savor the earthy aroma of hard rains on dusty plains. It’s a feeling you’ll treasure for life.

On some days a harsh wind will literally take your breath away while an abundance of unexpectedly colorful flowers of the veld will leave you breathless and warm with inner joy, even on the coldest morning.

When nature opens its doors just for you and the world stops revolving for a while, the sounds of the Karoo will put dancing shoes on your feet and you’ll almost be afraid to blink… as if you’ll miss the beat. The constant scream of cicadas will remind you not to play for too long in the unforgiving sun. Then suddenly Shepard’s tree will beckon like a magnet and entice you for a nap in the coolness of its shade.

Overcome with thirst while tracking the lonesome plains, a desolate windmill will offer crystal clear water from deep in the earth’s bosom. You’ll replenish with water from the same well at which you’ll find the biggest buffalo and smallest bee.

This is where you’ll walk, sing and dance the day away and rest with wonderous dreams and awake with the biggest smile.

We invite you to walk the plains of Karreekloof, leave deep footprints, enjoy a night sky of bewilderment, dream big, wake up for a new dawn of delight, savor the purest water, lose yourself in the shade of big trees and let the cicadas remind you… you are in the Karoo. It’s here you’ll discover the rhythm of your soul.

 

 

Self-Drive Vacation in South Africa

Self-drive travelling in South Africa ensures that you see a unique side of the country that you haven’t seen before.  It can, however, prove to be challenging with the unpredictable elements of Africa.  Here are some tips for when you attempt a self-drive vacation in South Africa:

General tips
  • Keep to the prescribed speed limits.  “The general speed limit on South Africa’s national highways, urban freeways, and other major routes is 120km/h (75mph). On secondary (rural) roads it is 100km/h (60mph). In built-up areas, it is usually 60km/h (35mph) unless otherwise indicated.”  It is advisable that you always check the road signs.
  • It is advisable to switch on the headlights of your vehicle to be more visible to other drivers, especially in dusty or rainy conditions.
  • Many of the national roads between the major centres in South Africa are toll roads. Confirm the toll fees before you leave, and make sure that you have either a credit card or cash to pay.
    Toll fares may vary from R2.50 to R61.00 per toll plaza – you may pass through three or four of these before you reach your destination.
  • Make sure that you have a trustworthy and updated GPS.
Choose the best route

In South Africa, there are multiple routes to get to your destination.  Make sure you know what routes have road works and what routes have become difficult to drive on.  Also, make sure how far the gas stations are situated from each other.

What not to do when you self-drive

Rural areas can be particularly poorly lit and not all roads have proper fencing for animals and life stock.  You need to be mindful of drunk drivers, pedestrians and even life stock at night.  South Africans also know that Kudu’s tend to jump in front of cars at night, so it might be a good idea to avoid driving long distances at night.  Never leave your vehicle unlocked, even if it is for a short period.  Also never pick up strangers or hitchhikers.

Source

www.drivesouthafrica.co.za

Preparing for Your First Time on Safari

Going on a safari can be challenging for a first timer – even if you are a South African.  No one wants to look misplaced or be accused of frightening the animals away with their red shirts.  Here is some practical advice for your first safari experience:

What clothes do I need to wear?

Most camps encourage that guests wear clothing that fits in right with their bush environment.  That includes clothes of colours of beige, khaki, green or brown.  Make sure you know the temperatures of the place you are going to.  In winter in the Northern Cape, one can expect anything from very cold early morning and evenings to warm weather during mid-day.  Some basics one needs to have is T-shirts, a long sleeve shirt (one that can roll up preferably), vest, zip-off pants, hiking boots, warm jacket and a safari hat.

What necessities do you need to pack?

There are a few necessities that no person on safari should be without.  Sun block should definitely be your number one priority.  It doesn’t matter if it is in the middle of winter and icy cold, you should put sunblock on before you go out.  Also, put an extra sun block in your safari bag that must never leave that bag – you cannot afford to forget it at home.  Getting sunburnt and the sun sick on your first day is not something you want to report back home.  A hat and sunglasses will also be valuable in the African sun.

Mosquito and insect repellent is also an absolute must.  Before you go on safari, find out if you are in a malaria zone to get the appropriate medications.  There are lots of reading material about what to pack in your first aid bag and always remember your travel insurance!

A common mistake on your first safari

Buying hiking boots just before you go on safari and never walking in them before can really cause uncomfortable blisters.  Even if you think you are only going on a game drive, make sure that the boots you’ve got are comfortable.  Remember, you are still in Africa and unexpected things can happen – An unexpected walk in the bush will definitely not be a rare occurrence in Africa.

Other tips

It can become so hot over midday that most safari companies do not take their clients out over this time of day.  A book and swimsuit will really come in handy during your afternoon relaxation time.  Remember to rehydrate often and listen to what your guide are saying.  They are really knowledgeable on factors regarding the bush and create a valuable experience for you.

Now it’s time for you to go and enjoy your first African Safari!!

5 Things to make travelling more memorable

 

Most people save up to go on a special holiday, whether locally or abroad.  It is important to make your trip memorable, so keep these things in mind when travelling:
1.  Meet the locals

You always get those guys that wherever they go, they have awesome experiences.  Experiences that are off the map and not within the usual day schedule of a traveller.  One way to have those experiences yourself is to meet the local people.  Locals usually know best – they know where you can find the best quality for your money, the best service and if you are looking for something different – they will know.  Basic English is spoken more widely than most people think and hand gestures also goes a long way.  It’s always good to know one or two basic words or greetings in the local language.

2.  It’s okay to laugh at yourself

Misunderstanding people and their customs happen quite often.  Instead of dropping your head in shame, laugh it off.  Making a fool of yourself, even unintentionally, is the perfect way to meet new people.  Locals and travellers will immediately identify you as someone who is fun to be with and seek out more opportunities to befriend.  People enrich your travels more than the everyday sights do.

3.  Take some photographs and then some more whilst travelling

Take lots of photographs – even if it is uncool to look like a tourist.  Memory might fade, but the photographs will always be there to remind you of the special places you’ve visited.  Before you travel, make sure that you are comfortable with the phone or camera you are using.

4.  Stash some extra cash

In some places, especially Africa, one can get far with cash.  ATM’s and banks aren’t always as easily accessible as one would like.  In Africa, cash tips also give you access to information and special services.  You can stash extra cash in your shoes, toiletry bag or special places inside your bags.  Always make sure that no-one knows that you have cash available.

5.  Dress the part

Make it easy on yourself at airport security and don’t dress like you are part of the mafia.  Also, wear comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes that make your time travelling easier.  Pack an extra pair of socks for if you are travelling long distances – even if it’s only for the comfort of your fellow passengers’ sense of smell.

 

 

 

Medication for your First African Safari

Going on your first African safari can be quite daunting.  You want to be prepared, but you also don’t want to overdo it and make your luggage too heavy.  It is always best to double check the list of medication that you’ve made with your general practitioner.  It is also a good idea to contact the lodge where you will be staying to find out what they have in place in case of a medical emergency.

Here are some ideas for your list of medication:
  1. Prescription medicine. Always make sure that you have an adequate supply of your prescription medication with you.  It may be difficult to find replacement medication depending on where you are going.
  2. Malaria medication. Found out before the time if you are travelling to a malaria area.  There are different types of malaria medication that you need to discuss with your doctor.
  3. Yellow fever vaccines. “Yellow fever is endemic (always present) in many of the tropical areas of Africa and South America, and this means that any areas populated with the mosquito could harbour the disease.  You will not be able to get a visa or permit to travel to some countries unless you have been vaccinated at least 10 days prior to your departure date and can show a yellow fever certificate”. (travelstart.co.za)
  4. Medication for stomach issues, like vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. A dehydration packet might also come in handy.
  5. Mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream. You can also take an antihistamine for more serious insect bites and stings, like bees.
  6. An assortment of plasters and a bandage or two. Butterfly suture plasters can also be helpful.
  7. Eye drops
  8. Ibuprofen or something for pain relief or fever.
  9. Vitamin C and other vitamins to give you a boost if you think that you are coming down with something.
  10. Water purification tablets
  11. A tweezer might come in handy for an unexpected thorn or two.
  12. Lip Ice and Vaseline – never underestimate the African sun.
  13. Sunburn ointment – You don’t want to spoil your African safari with sunburn on your first day.

In some cases, you might have to seek professional medical help.  Depending on your destination, the quality and services of state hospitals may vary.  You, therefore, need to make sure that you have comprehensive travel insurance.

Sources

http://www.travelstart.co.za/lp/travel-tips/yellow-fever#sthash.NHKMpr4R.dpuf

http://goafrica.about.com/od/healthandsafety/a/firstaid.htm

Visit to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park with its red dunes, blue skies, and a variety of African wildlife is ideal for game viewing and photographic safaris. The park lies in the west of the southern African continent, also known as the Kalahari Desert.

The average rainfall in this semi-dessert is about 200 mm per year and the fauna and flora are therefore adapted to this low rainfall.  The park is furthermore a fusion of the former Kalahari Gemsbok National Park of South Africa and the neighbouring Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. This creates an enormous conservation area of over 3,6 million hectares and one of the very few of this magnitude in the world.

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a semi-desert wilderness of blonde grass, red dunes, and vast open spaces.  It is further characterized by sparse vegetation and camel thorn trees. Animals also tend to gather in the dry riverbeds and waterholes. One can enjoy the sight of herds of gemsbok, springbok, eland and blue wildebeest.  The black-mane lions watch the variety of animals closely.  Lions in the Kgalagadi have incredibly large home ranges. Other predators include Leopard, Cheetah, Brown and Spotted Hyena and birds of prey.

Accommodation and activities

Luxury game lodges, tented camps, and self-catering chalets are available. Twee Rivieren is the largest rest camp and administrative base. It has a swimming pool, information center and shop, public telephone and cell phone reception. The a la carte Restaurant serves breakfast and dinners. Further north, Nossob Rest camp is fairly basic, with seven types of self-catering chalets. In Kgalagadi’s southwest, Mata Mata Rest Camp is quite simple, but a great place for adventurous small families.

Activities in the park include game drives, hiking, 4×4 trails, eco trail, and swimming. A further highlight includes fantastic bird watching. This is an excellent area to view birds of prey, especially tawny and snake eagles.

The astounding beauty of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will steal your heart.

Sources
https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi/tourism/history.php
http://www.nature-reserve.co.za/kgalagadi-transfrontier-nature-preserve.html
http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/overview/northern-cape
https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi/conservation/ff/lion_article.php
https://www.expertafrica.com/south-africa/kgalagadi-transfrontier-park

Experience the Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape

The Augrabies Waterfalls are situated 120 km west of Upington, in the province of the Northern Cape, South Africa.  The Khoi call the Augrabies Falls Aukoerebis, which means ‘the place of the Great Noise’.  Consequently, the ‘Great Noise’ refers to the Orange River thundering its way downwards for 60 meters in a spectacular waterfall.  You have to experience it for yourself in order to fully understand this meaning.  The contrast of the waterfall within the desert setting provides a moving and absorbing experience. This is particularly true when there has been plenty of rain and the Orange River is overflowing.  As a result, the waterfalls seems to increase in its splendour.

The waterfalls also form part of the Augrabies Falls National Park.  The Augrabies Falls National Park is one of six South African national parks in the Northern Cape.  In addition, it follows the course of the Orange River from just outside Kakamas to the Namibian border, spanning more than 800km² (http://www.southafrica.net).

Activities at the Augrabies Falls

The national park is home to a couple of rock formations, including the Moon Rock.  This is a large, but weathered granite dome that towers about 30m above the park.  It provides a fantastic all around view for those that are prepared to tackle the summit.  Other viewpoints include Oranjekom, Ararat, and Echo Corner.

Except for the spectacular sight of the Augrabies Waterfall, one can enjoy a variety of activities and adventures in the surrounding area:

  • Waterfall viewpoints that are walking distance the restaurants.
  • Game viewing at leisure using own vehicle.
  • Nights drives can be booked directly from the park.
  • Mountain bikes are also allowed inside the park provided cyclists remain on the official roads.
  • The Wilderness Road is 94km long and will take approximately 6 hours to complete in a 4×4 vehicle. There is a scenic picnic spot halfway along the road with ablution and braai facilities.
  • There are several panoramic viewpoints inside the park.  They all provide great views of the park, the gorge, and the Orange River. These points also provide great opportunities to spot the local birdlife.
  • Rafting and canoeing
  • Flyfishing

The best time to visit Augrabies is from March to May when the temperatures are slightly cooler and the river is at its maximum flow after summer rainfall up in the Lesotho catchment areas. The falls is a easy day-trip from Upington.

 

Sources:

http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/entry/article-southafrica.net-augrabies-falls-northern-cape

https://www.roughguides.com/destinations/africa/south-africa/the-northern-cape/the-kalahari/augrabies-falls-national-park/

The Lesser Kestrel of the Karoo

Each year thousands of Lesser Kestrels (Falco naumanni) migrate to Southern Africa, and the Karoo, during the summer months.  This article gives a brief overview of the description, behaviour and conservation status of these small falcons.  Lesser Kestrels come from the North (Russia, Siberia and Kazakhstan) and seek the warmth of Southern Africa when their breeding season is over.

Description and behaviour

The lesser kestrel can be described as small, with long pointed wings and a long tail marked with a black band at the end. They are inconspicuous raptors, not much larger than rock pigeons.   Males and females are distinguishable by colouring.  The females have buff, spotted markings, whilst their belly is pale.  The males have blue-grey feathers on the crown, rump, neck and tail and chestnut-coloured body feathers. Both males and females have white undersides to their wings, with black tips. The eye ring is bright yellow and the feet are yellow to orange.

Travelling in loose flocks of hundreds of birds, this sociable species will also roost together in trees, but migrate singly or in flocks of less than 50, at altitudes of around 2,000 metres. Once they arrive safely in South Africa, the kestrels moult all their feathers in symmetry, set by set. You’ll find them under the trees where they roost, worn to a nub after the long flight from the north.  These kestrels are quite apt at hunting and dives almost silently from a perch or from mid-air and pounces on prey with their claws, before swiftly killing its prey with a bite to the back of the head.

Conservation of the Lesser Kestrel

The decline of Lesser Kestrel was first brought to the attention of the raptor world in the early 1990s. Information available showed a decline of around 46% since the 1950s in their breeding grounds and of around 25% in their wintering areas.  The main cause of the decline of seemed to be habitat loss and degradation as a result of agricultural intensification, afforestation and urbanisation.  The breeding sites of the lesser kestrels are unfortunately not protected by law.  Research and management of the species and its habitat have been carried out in several countries.  Interventions mostly focussed on the construction of artificial nests, and research into factors limiting the kestrel’s survival and habitat management.

References

https://www.ewt.org.za/BOP/migratingkestrel.html

http://www.arkive.org/lesser-kestrel/falco-naumanni/

Lesser Kestrels of the Karoo

 

Tsessebe’s are Africa’s odd-looking, but fast moving antelope

Tsessebe’s are known to be rather odd looking and they are also considered to be the fastest antelope in Africa.

Appearance

Tsessebe’s (Damaliscus Lunatus) are usually not recognised as one of the most attractive antelope in the wild.  This is mostly due to its forequarters being higher than their hind.  They come from the same families as the Hartebeest and the Wildebeest, that same these same characteristics.  Bulls are slightly larger than the cows, weighing approximately 140kg, to the cows 120kgs.  Both the bulls and the cow’s growths horn, although the bull’s horns are heavier.  Tsessebes horns are typically shaped in a “half-moon”.  It has a dark face, with a slight purplish sheen over its shoulders and a red-brown coat.

Behavior

“Tsessebe are social animals and their basic group structure consists of small breeding groups, each comprising of six to ten cows with their offspring. Bachelor groups and territorial bull herds may sometimes number up to 30 strong. This is especially noticeable near water and favourable gazing. Breeding herds, that consists of cows, are not restricted to a specific territory. In areas where tsessebe occurs in higher densities, bulls establish typical ‘lek’ system territories. Young bulls form bachelor groups at the age of one year as they are pushed out of herds.” (http://www.krugerpark.co.za)

 

General facts

In general, Tsessebe’s are found in small herds in medium-length grass and they also prefer fresh growth and green grass stalks. In places where it has been recently burned, Tsessebe’s will often find the new grass springing up.  These antelope usually give birth during September up to November months to single calves, after a gestation period of seven months.    Tsessebes can run up to 60km/h, but they have, in addition, they have a peculiar habit of stopping to see how far away the perceived predator is.  Lastly, Tsessebes can live approximately 15 years in the wild and up to 20 years in captivity.

References:

http://home.intekom.com/ecotravel/african-wildlife/animals/mammals/facts-about/tsessebes.htm

http://www.krugerpark.co.za/africa_tsessebe.html

http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/entry/article-southafrica.net-tsessebe