The Karoo is a vast, semi-desert natural region in South Africa known for its stark beauty, dramatic open landscapes, windpump-dotted plains, and extraordinary night skies.
Divided into the Great Karoo in the north and the Little (Klein) Karoo in the south, it is famous for:
- Landscape & Geology: Flat-topped hills (kopjes), arid plains, and dramatic mountain passes.
- Stargazing: Exceptional clear skies, home to the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) near Sutherland.
- Culture & Heritage: Historic Victorian architecture in towns like Prince Albert, Graaff-Reinet, and Nieu-Bethesda.
- Flora & Fauna: Unique succulent vegetation (Succulent Karoo biodiversity hotspot), ostriches, springbok, and diverse bird life.

