We were not really impressed by the Garden Route, it was nothing like it was cracked up to be. I am sure that this part of the coast was once very beautiful but unfortunately uncontrolled development has left only small pockets of unspoiled landscape. We therefore decided to travel north to explore the Karoo.
We drove back to George and then north via Oudtshoorn and the N12 to Beaufort West and the Karoo National Park. The journey through the Swartberg mountains was spectacular, it was just a pity that we did not have more time to explore the area but we had a long journey ahead of us. I am sure we will return to explore the Swartberg and Oudtshoorn areas some time in the future.
The Karoo National Park was very arid but starkly beautiful. Wildlife included Gemsbok, Bontibok, Eland, Springbok and Mountain Zebra but we were really interested in seeing the nocturnal creatures for which it was renouned, such as Bat Eared Foxes, Aardwolves, Aardvarkes and Caracals. We were also looking forward to some walking because 'as far as we knew' there were no really dangerous animals.
Oops! No-one had told us that these (Lions and Black Rhinos) had only just been introduced and you should not get out of your car !!!
The camp site was small and full of caravanners who were using the park as an overnight stop on their journey from Johannesberg to The Cape. This was unfortunate as anyone who wanted to explore the karoo would find it difficult to get accommodation. It did, however, leave the park almost deserted during the day.
Our tent was surrounded by lots of giant mountain Tortoises, Carole was very amused by their 'mating' antics.
We only camped for one night because it was just too hot for comfort. The next two nights were spent in one of the parks very comfortable and spacious lodges. I would recommend self catering as the restaurant was pretty poor.
We spent the days exploring the park's very rough dirt roads, each afternoon would end with a refreshing dip in the wonderful swimming pool. On two of the evenings we joined a night drive and we had great views of Aardwolves (with young) and a Bat Eared Fox. One afternoon was spent exploring Beaufort West, which was only mildly interesting.
During the three days we saw lots of animals, except the Lion and Rhino (thank goodness). The birdlife was surprisingly good with Verreaux Eagles a particular specialty. The park was great, and really deserves more visitors.
On Sunday 12th we returned to Cape Town via the Karoo Botanic Gardens at Worcester. This was a very interesting, but hot, location. We had the garden to ourselves and spent ages trying to identify all the species which were familiar to us. We also had a good view of Cape Sugar Birds feeding on the Proteas.
We arrived at our lodge in Hout Bay early in the evening and were really surprised how good it was. The view from the veranda was spectacular and there was food and wine waiting for us. What a great way to end the day.
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