Steynskraal Guest Farm

Steynskraal Guest Farm is nestled in the heart of the Great Karoo. For hundreds of years, this historic farm has served as a vital outspan for weary travelers and their draft animals. 

 

Located just 23 km outside Beaufort West (towards Cape Town) and only 4 km from the N1, Steynskraal offers three luxury self-catering accommodation units for the discerning traveler. The buildings, which date back to the mid-1800s, have been meticulously restored and furnished to create a unique blend of luxury, warmth, and hospitality.

This working farm is completely off the grid and pet-friendly. The units feature private splash pools, and the rooms are air-conditioned. Freshly baked bread is served to guests upon arrival, and a small farm store on the premises is stocked with homemade braai packs, bottled salads, and fresh fruit.

In addition to birding and bird photography, Steynskraal offers a range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, and swimming.

Situated on the N1 between Cape Town and Johannesburg, Steynskraal Guest Farm is the perfect addition to any birding trip. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts. Each self-catering unit is equipped with bird field guides, ensuring you can make the most of your birding experience. Most of the farm is accessible by foot, but for those wishing to explore further, a 4x4 is available. The farm is home to a variety of larks and Karoo specialties, offering plenty of opportunities to expand your bird list.

Bird species you might encounter include the Ludwig's Bustard, Karoo Korhaan, Kori Bustard, Secretarybird, Double-banded Courser, Fairy Flycatcher, Karoo Long-billed Lark, Karoo Lark, Large-billed Lark, Grey-backed Sparrow-Lark, Black-eared Sparrow-Lark, Chestnut-vented Warbler, Karoo Chat, Namaqua Warbler, Namaqua Sandgrouse and Scaly-feathered Weaver.

The farm is predominantly covered by Gamka Karoo, a dwarf, spiny shrubland that makes up about 70% of the area. This landscape is characterized by small trees and shrubs along the drainage lines. The remaining 30% consists of Southern Karoo Riverine Thicket, primarily found along rivers, tributaries, and seasonal drainage lines.

Steynskraal features several larger rivers and their tributaries, including the Gamka, Boeteka, and Steyns Rivers. The undulating topography creates numerous shallow depressions and drainage lines, forming a productive catchment with a diverse ecology. The permeable rock formations support a quality groundwater yield, and the Southern Karoo Riverine Thicket, with its dense to open riparian bush on alluvial deposits, enhances Steynskraal’s appeal as a birding destination.