Matjiesvlei Guest Farm

Welcome to Matjiesvlei!

activities

When you visit us, we recommend packing binoculars, fishing rods, mountain bikes, hiking boots, canoes or inflatable boats, and swimsuits. Nearby Calitzdorp offers a charming town to explore, complete with excellent restaurants and wine tasting venues. From Matjiesvlei, you can embark on captivating day trips to various points of interest in the enchanting Klein Karoo.

Your adventure awaits at Matjiesvlei, where history, nature, and relaxation converge to create unforgettable memories.

BOJAANKOP 4 X 4 ROUTE

 R250 per vehicle 

For the adventurous at heart, the rugged Bojaankop 4×4 trail awaits. This thrilling trail begins right at the Bush camp and leads you to exhilarating heights, reaching a soaring 540 meters above sea level.

Along the way, savour stunning views and navigate challenging terrains, providing a memorable off-road experience.

The Bôjaankop 4×4 route is steeped in history, dating back to the 1800s when our ancestors and sharecroppers traversed these very hills. They hauled bundles of Wild Plum wood down from the Swartberg Mountains to distil Witblits and craft raisins. In the wintertime, these hardworking individuals would venture into town to sell their wood, supplementing their income. Much of the route we travel today follows the same paths these resilient pioneers carved.

In those early days, prickly pears blanketed the landscape until cochenille, a natural pest control imported from Australia, tamed their growth. Wild donkeys once roamed freely along the Gamka River valley.

Today, the landscape is a thriving succulent paradise, with Spekboom and an array of succulent plants flourishing in this arid Karoo environment. Come spring, the veld bursts into a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, set against the dramatic backdrop of the smudgy blue Swartberg Mountains.

Our trail takes you along and through the Gamka River, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the valley. River crossings can be an exciting challenge, especially during flood season. A low-range vehicle is recommended for most of the trail, ensuring a safe and thrilling adventure for the whole family. As photographer Richard van Ryneveld aptly put it, “A truly beautiful area, Matjiesvlei is a hidden and undiscovered gem in the Klein Karoo.

NATURE'S BOUNTY

Matjiesvlei boasts an abundance of birdlife, including black eagles and fish eagles along the riverbanks. Lucky observers may even spot Cape otters. 

The Gamka River is home to seven different fish species, so don’t forget to bring your fishing gear and inflatable boats if angling is your passion.

DAY TRIPS

Matjiesvlei is strategically located for day trips to some of South Africa’s most famous attractions, including the enchanting towns if Calitzdorp and Oudtshoorn with its plethora of tourist destinations, the stunning Garden Route, the secluded wonderland of Die Hel (Gamkaskloof), and the picturesque mountain passes that dot the area.

WINERIES & restaurants

Calitzdorp is considered with the Port wine capital of South Africa and our award-winning wineries will leave you coming back for more. Coupled with enchanting eateries and a visit to the local Station Bar you will get to mingle with the locals and enjoy true Klein Karoo Hospitality.  Enquire with your hosts regarding the best spots for local cuisine in Calitzdorp.

Find more information at www.visitcalitzdorp.co.za or at the local Tourism Office.

scenic drives

One of the most scenic drives in the Swartberg is through the Redstone Hills, to the Kruisrivier Gallery. For a breathtaking 17km drive, take the Kruisrivier turnoff, 12km on the R62 from Calitzdorp. The Gallery exhibits magnificent photographs of the landscape and its people- both humorous and tragic; hand-carved, hardwood furniture; steel sculptures; handcrafted rope baskets; unique bags and hand-felted hats.

cultural activities

Visit the Calitzdorp Museum showcasing the cultural history of the region and its immediate surrounds. It explores the life, implements, people and natural treasures of Calitzdorp and the Klein Karoo, extending back generations. The exhibit is varied and comprehensive, and ranges from old photographs to local artefacts. 

cango wildlife ranch

Visit the oldest and largest cheetah contact center in the world at the Cango Wildlife Ranch.
 Encounter a variety of animals, including cheetahs, snakes, and majestic lions.

ostrich show farms

Get up close and personal with the world’s largest flightless bird at the ostrich show farms. 
Stand on their eggs, touch the birds, and cuddle with adorable ostrich chicks, all in about 1½ hours. 

Farms to visit:
Safari 
HighGate

cango caves

Explore the stunning underground wonder of the Klein Karoo at the Cango Caves
Marvel at the impressive dripstone caverns, vast halls, and towering formations within this limestone ridge.

 

wilgeWANDEL HOLIDAY FARM

At Wilgewandel Holiday Farm, there’s something for everyone. From camel rides and walking trails to feeding animals and donkey cart rides, this farm offers a wide range of activities. Don’t forget to visit the farm’s restaurant for a taste of local cuisine in a delightful farm atmosphere.

WE CAN'T WAIT TO MEET YOU

Please contact us for bookings:

Selma: +27 (0) 73 174 1028
Bennie: +27 (0) 83 453 2209
Tel: +27 (0) 44 050 3346 |  matjiesvlei@telkomsa.net

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