The quaint town of Tarkastad is nestled between the Winterberg mountains and is known for its wide-open spaces, rich agricultural heritage, and historical buildings. It offers a peaceful Karoo escape with scenic landscapes, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life.
Overlooked by distinctive flat‑topped peaks known as Martha and Mary and is said to have one of the healthiest climates in the world. Winters are cold with frequent snowfall on high-laying mountain tops, while summers are hot and dry.
What to do in Tarkastad
Explore this little town on foot. Visit historic buildings, browse through the old town cemetery and enjoy a coffee at The Story. Tarkastad boasts famous rock painting sites at Grootvlei and has a rich history linked to the Anglo-Boer War.
The Tarkastad War Memorial was erected after the first World War with ...
The first Dutch farmers settled in the Tarkastad district in 1795 and ...
Throughout the Karoo it’s common to see flat-topped hills called Karoo Koppies ...
Pieter Willem van Heerden was born on 27 August 1859 and married ...
Modderfontein is located about 23km outside of Tarkastad. It was here that ...
Empowering you to take charge of your health and life purpose through ...
Where to Stay
Tarkastad doesn’t have a lot of accommodation options in town, but whether you choose to stay in a quaint B&B, a guest farm in the region or even in the local retirement village, the warmth and hospitality of the people will surprise you every time.
Stepping Stones is situated in the small Karoo town of Tarkastad, about ...
Where to Eat
Exploring the history of Tarkastad, especially if you are on foot, will make you peckish for a snack or ready for a meal.
Tucked away in the heart of Tarkastad, The Story Coffee Shop is a true Karoo gem, offering visitors ...
Explore the town and surrounds
Visit the historic sites around the town, discover interesting graves in the cemetery, learn about the region’s links to the Anglo-Boer War, explore rock paintings, hike, mountain bike or just enjoy a beautiful sunset. This area may be less “famous” than the other parts of the Karoo Heartland, but it truly is an off-the-beaten-track destination.
