John Taolo Gaetsewe: Camel Thorn Forest, Rock Engravings and Routes

John Taolo Gaetsewe offers several starting points for planning a trip: camel thorn landscapes, archaeological evidence and routes connecting several named places. First consider whether you want to focus mainly on Kathu and its surroundings, historic sites or a drive along a route.

Camel thorn landscapes and distinctive natural features

North of Kathu lies the Kathu Forest, a wooded area with exceptionally large camel thorn trees. It was declared a Protected Woodland on 10 July 2009. The Kathu Bush is also characterised primarily by impressive camel thorn trees. Both landscape descriptions give camel thorn trees a special place in the area around Kathu.

Another natural feature is The Eye: this geological formation brings water from deep underground to the surface in the Kalahari. The Eye is considered the largest natural spring in the Southern Hemisphere. On a broader scale, there is the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa's largest privately owned game reserve, covering an area of 1,200 square kilometres. Those interested in ancient rock engravings will find a specific connection there: guests of the reserve can visit protected ancient San rock engraving sites.

Archaeology and history

Wonderwerk Cave contains the world's earliest evidence of fire being used inside a dwelling. Wonderwerk is also a National Heritage Site. This combination of archaeological significance and recognised heritage status makes the cave a notable attraction for travellers interested in early human history.

The area around Kathu is also of considerable interest to archaeologists and palaeontologists. In Kathu, the Sishen Mine is considered one of the main visitor attractions. The Kalahari Raptor Rehabilitation Centre treats and rehabilitates injured birds of prey. Together, these topics showcase different sides of the destination: human history, the area's importance to research and the rehabilitation of injured birds.

Routes through the region

The Kalahari Raptor Trail includes Kuruman, Kathu, Olifantshoek, Upington, Keimoes, Kakamas and Augrabies Falls National Park. The Forgotten Highway Route connects Tulbagh in the south with Kuruman in the north. The routes therefore offer different points of reference: one trail lists a series of named places and a national park, while the other route is described by its southern and northern connections. For planning, it is helpful to keep the respective places and endpoints in mind rather than treating the two route names as interchangeable.

Kathu: leisure and getting there

Leisure facilities in Kathu include a golf course and an Olympic-standard swimming pool. If you plan to use either facility, check that it is currently operating before your trip. Kathu is also connected to rail services via Dingleton Station and Kimberley; service availability may change. Roads connect the town to Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Windhoek and Cape Town. Kathu also has an airport with a paved runway. Check whether the airport is currently operating before your trip.

You can first decide what kind of trip you want, then look for a suitable hotel for your specific travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Kathu, Kuruman, Pixley Ka Seme, Frances Baard, Diamandveld, Siyanda, Namakwa, Kalahari District Council.

For the broader travel overview: Northern Cape.