The history of the Karoo surfaces at Ganora in layers, and all the layers have texture. The owners discovered the farms previous lives from the flinty rock that reveals ancient fossils to the smooth sides of the shelter painted by Bushmen.
The result is a private museum featuring all the fossils and Bushman implements. The highlight of the collection is Kompasia delaharpi, the only complete fossil of this fish in the world.
A visit to the museum can be followed by guided tours to San and Khoi shelters on the farm where rock art dating back to 10 000 years ago can be viewed. Even the Anglo-Boer War features in Ganoras past.
All this is available to day visitors (and groups are welcome too) but the real feel of Ganora comes with a stay in Khoisan Cottage.
You can participate in farm activities, enjoy a dip in the farm reservoir, a genuine Karoo swimming pool! - or go walking, bike riding or birding.
Rooms:
To experience the real feel of the farm, our self-contained comfortable cottage, provides accommodation for six.
Full of rustic charm, its thick, uneven walls provide accommodation for up to six people but with no concession to comfort. You are assured of privacy and a personal relationship with the Karoo.
Meals are available if you choose not to self-cater. A light or a full breakfast, and supper can be delivered.
For a full three-course dinner, your presence is requested at the family table in the main house.
Ganora Guest Farm Activities:
4x4 trails: There are two trails available. You can choose between the easier 10 km trail or the slightly more difficult 35 km trail.
Mountain Biking: The mountain biking trail follows the shorter 4x4 trail. If you want something more challenging there is a 35km trail as well.
Walking Trails: A lovely canyon walk is the ideal way to relieve your stress. Watch the Eagles fly above you. To cool off you can swim in the Karoo pools en-route.
Picnic baskets are available on request.
In the area: Visit the Owl house, home of the eccentric Helen Martins.
Visit Nieu-Bethesda only 7 km away with art galleries, coffee and craft shops.
Hike up Compassberg, the second highest peak in the Eastern Cape.
Visit Cradock and the Mountain Zebra Park.
Visit Graaff-Reinet and the Valley of Desolation.
Click to display the map
The staff at SA Places is very friendly and helpful. 