Often regarded as the undiscovered corner of the Little Karoo, Van Wyksdorp remains a cultural kaleidoscope untouched by the modern hustle and bustle of city life. Van Wyksdorp, located in the Cape Floristic Kingdom (an internationally recognized biodiversity "hotspot"), is ecologically rich in Klein Karoo biodiversity. This quaint little town offers a unique charm, warm character and friendly residents. People from far away come here on weekends or move permanently to get away from city life and to breathe the atmosphere of a living village. Young and old enjoy themselves while children still play in the few streets. The town offers a stress-free life that is needed in contrast to today's fast-paced lifestyle. This beautiful area and inspiring lifestyle offers the cornerstones of a healthy life, thus providing an unforgettable experience. In Van Wyksdorp there is a lot to do. It's a beautiful environment for you to explore and make your mark. Local farmers are inviting and many offer visitors the opportunity to experience hiking and mountain biking on their properties. There are many dirt roads that lead to other interesting places and one can enjoy nature for a day, and still stay close to the town. Take a walk in the town and you will see more than you would imagine in such a small town. The town has a wealth of cultural gems in the form of old Karoo architecture and gardens. Befriend the residents and hear about all the wonderful things to see and experience in this…
Often regarded as the undiscovered corner of the Little Karoo, Van Wyksdorp remains a cultural kaleidoscope untouched by the modern hustle and bustle of city life. Van Wyksdorp, located in the Cape Floristic Kingdom (an internationally recognized biodiversity "hotspot"), is ecologically rich in Klein Karoo biodiversity. This quaint little town offers a unique charm, warm character and friendly residents. People from far away come here on weekends or move permanently to get away from city life and to breathe the atmosphere of a living village. Young and old enjoy themselves while children still play in the few streets. The town offers a stress-free life that is needed in contrast to today's fast-paced lifestyle. This beautiful area and inspiring lifestyle offers the cornerstones of a healthy life, thus providing an unforgettable experience.
In Van Wyksdorp there is a lot to do. It's a beautiful environment for you to explore and make your mark. Local farmers are inviting and many offer visitors the opportunity to experience hiking and mountain biking on their properties. There are many dirt roads that lead to other interesting places and one can enjoy nature for a day, and still stay close to the town.
Take a walk in the town and you will see more than you would imagine in such a small town. The town has a wealth of cultural gems in the form of old Karoo architecture and gardens. Befriend the residents and hear about all the wonderful things to see and experience in this beautiful town.
From breakfast, lunches and dinners, Vanwyskdorp offers it all. There are even jams, olive oil, and olive product purchases available here.
There are also many small guest houses and self-catering establishments in the town. Each accommodation option offers guests a different and unique stay.
The town was founded in 1838, on the farm Buffelsfontein, which was owned by Gerrit van Wyk. Today the population of the village is about 1000, of which a few direct descendants of Van Wyk can still be found. Throughout history, the inhabitants of the town depended on the farming of fruit, sheep, cattle and ostriches.
Once, during the years of the ostrich boom, it was the center of education in the Little Karoo.
The railway connections made to Ladismith and Riversdal allowed these towns to grow, while Van Wyksdorp slowly shrunk to its present state.
Neighbouring Towns
Distances below are the most popular roads, sometimes dirt and sometimes tar.