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Experiences / Fauna & flora

Animals in the Karoo you can see on the farm

Springbok, gemsbok, zebra and red hartebeest live on the farm, and you can see them from the trails and the bike routes. Birds, dassies and Karoo plants add to the list. Here is what to look for, and how to stay safe around baboons and snakes.

Springbok grazing on the open plains at Karoo One

On the farm

Animals you can see

  • Springbok: often seen along the trails.
  • Gemsbok: a large antelope with long straight horns, seen on the farm.
  • Zebra: grazing on the veld.
  • Red hartebeest: another antelope you are likely to spot on a walk or ride.
  • Dassies (rock hyraxes): small animals that live among the rocks.
  • Baboons: wild baboons live in the area. See the safety tips below.

The best chance of seeing game is on the trails, early in the morning or late in the afternoon. See the trail map.

Plan your visit

good to know before you go

Birds

Black eagles nest on the sun-baked rocks. The Karoo is also home to birds such as the Karoo korhaan and Ludwig’s bustard. The rains from June to September can bring more birds to the veld.

Karoo plants

The Karoo is known for its succulents. The trail map names a Protea Forest and a Carpobrutus Forest on the farm.

Baboons

Baboons sometimes approach the tents and may come near the rooms. To keep them out of your space:

  • Do not feed them.
  • Do not leave food, packaging or bags outside or inside.
  • Store food in cupboards before you go out.
  • In the AfriCamps tents, close bathroom windows and canvas panels when you leave.
  • Do not leave rubbish bags outside.

Keep a safe distance on the trails.

Snakes

Keep a safe distance from snakes and stay on the marked trails. If someone is bitten, seek medical help immediately. If a snake enters your tent or room, evacuate everyone, close the doors, and call reception on +27 23 358 2131.

The nearest private hospital is Mediclinic Worcester, +27 (0)23 348 1500, about a 44 minute drive. If you are allergic to bee stings, go to the nearest hospital if you feel dizzy, swollen or short of breath after a sting.

Respect the wildlife

Respect wild animals, and do not feed them. Keep your dog on a leash where needed and clean up after it. See our pet-friendly policy.

FAQs

questions we hear at reception

Can't find what you need? Call reception on +27 23 358 2131.

At Aquila Private Game Reserve, about 10 minutes from the farm. See Big 5 safari near Cape Town.

Stay a little longer

Check your dates and current specials on our booking page.