The Karoo has a beauty all its own, with arid landscapes beneath glowing sunsets and a down-home charm that wins every traveler over. It’s also one of the best places to try South African food the way it’s meant to be enjoyed.
Here’s where to get your fill in the beautiful Karoo.
The Epitome of South African Food – Biltong
Whichever town you visit in this part of the world; you’re bound to find a butcher who swears their biltong recipe is the best.
You can start your taste test at the Karoo Biltong Butchery in Laingsburg, just off the N1 en route to the Karoo.
Klein Merino Butchery in Beaufort-West will give you an excellent introduction to wet beef biltong, while B&B Biltong in Cradock specializes in the dry stuff. If it’s droewors (dried wors) you’re after, stop off at Vetmuis Plaaskombuis, in Richmond which is halfway between Durban and Cape Town.
Karoo Craft Beer
Nothing goes better with biltong than beer (and rugby of course), and you can explore this match made in heaven at the quaint Graaff-Reinet Club. This elegant historic building also contains a restaurant where you can try out a Karoo pizza with your brew.
Bagdad Café
You can’t beat a farmstall for a break from your travels and Bagdad Café near Calvinia won’t disappoint. The pancakes, roosterkoek (grilled bread) and homestyle platteland cookery are legendary at this small roadside eatery.
Prince Albert
This tiny town is on the up and up as a foodie destination of note, but if it’s something truly South African you’re after, head for the Prince Albert Saturday Market and grab yourself a jaffle. These awesome eats are the original toasted sandwich, created by roasting two pieces of bread and filling over a fire.
Gay's Dairy
Don’t let the arid landscapes of the Karoo fool you. You’ll find creamy dairy products in abundance here too. Pop into Gay’s Dairy outside Prince Albert and stock up on some handmade cheese and yoghurt.
Gay’s Dairy specializes in milk from a herd of free-ranging Guernsey cows. The dairy started off with just three cows and today their cheese is famous around the world for its excellent protein and cream content.
Explore the Road Less Travelled
One thing’s for sure, you’ll never go hungry in the Karoo. The tiny hamlets dotted around this area are awash with hospitality, unique attractions and fine South African food.
Get in touch today to book your enigmatic adventure in one of South Africa’s most charming destinations.
