A natural remedy for bronchial-related problems is to take a trip to Touws River in the Cape Province where the air is clean and the climate dry and crisp. It’s a perfect recipe, and why so many travel to Touws River in this part of South Africa known as the Karoo. The Karoo is a semi-desert region consisting of scrubland and wide open spaces with farms stretching as far as the eye can see. At first glance the area may seem desolate but there are many interesting and unusual small towns worth exploring, and Touws River is a prime example.

Travelling from Cape Town to Touws River is half the fun – the route traverses the Hex River Mountains and into the astonishing Hex River Valley, with dappled tones of green in summer and magnificent russet colours in winter. After summiting the impressive Hex River Pass, the terrain changes and below lies Touws River.

Touws River is a place of peaceful refuge, surrounded by mountains and located in a tranquil setting. Visitors can expect lavish hospitality from their hosts.

Top 6 reasons to visit Touws River

1. The land around Touws River is mostly occupied by private nature reserves and game farms. Visit the Aquila Private Game Reserve nearby to view the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) on safari. Day safaris last 2-3 hours on an open 4x4 vehicle.

2. The Touws and Donkies rivers alongside the town rarely flow, but when they do, grab a rod and go fishing! The friendly locals will assist you with best bait options and the fish species you can expect to catch.

3. Ask your host to arrange a donkey cart ride through the town to get a sense of your surroundings and to interact with the locals. Check out the old steam trains that once ran through the town.

4. Hike through the Pienaarskloof area to view the ancient rock art sites located in this area. Take a guide to ensure they are not missed.

5. Winter brings snow to the peaks of the surrounding mountains and South Africans, who rarely see the stuff, rush to the Matroosberg area to enjoy the snow falls. Travel to the Matroosberg Peak, over 2km in height, to join in the fun.

6. Night time presents the Touws River visitor with a black sky filled with endless stars. Sit out in the open and enjoy the display.

Transport

The nearest airport is Cape Town International Airport, located 180km from Touws River. Order a car rental online or collect at one of the agencies based at the airport. There are no metered taxi services in the region, however, tour and shuttle service operators in Cape Town will gladly transport you to Touws River.

Did you know?

A rare celestial event called the Transit of Venus occurs when Venus passes between the sun and a larger planet. Venus can then be seen moving over the surface of the sun. In 1882, the transit happened and an expedition was sent to Touws River to observe the event. The Venus Astrology Site was erected here to mark the occasion and is a national monument.

Afrikaans is mostly spoken in Touws River, however, many of the staff at accommodation facilities and tourist attractions are able to converse in English.

This is sheep farming country and farmers pride themselves on their quality Karoo lamb. Make sure you sample a lamb cutlet or roast during your stay.