karroo

Karroo (also spelled Karoo) is a semi‑arid region in southern Africa, extending across parts of South Africa’s Western, Northern, Eastern, and Free State provinces. It forms a vast plateau between the Cape Fold Belt and the Great Escarpment, covering roughly 400 000 km². The landscape is characterised by low, gently undulating hills, extensive shale and sandstone substrates, and sparse vegetation adapted to the dry climate.

The climate of the Karroo is marked by hot summers, cold winters and low, highly variable rainfall, typically ranging from 100 to 500 mm annually. Winter frosts are common, while summer thunderstorms can bring brief, intense downpours that support a burst of wildflowers, especially in the Namaqualand sub‑region.

Flora is dominated by hardy succulents, dwarf shrubs and the iconic “renosterbos” (Elytropappus rhinocerotis). Many plant species are endemic, including several members of the Asteraceae and Fabaceae families. The region supports a range of fauna adapted to aridity, such as the brown hyena, aardwolf, gemsbok, springbok, and a variety of reptiles and insects. Birdlife includes the Kori bustard and several raptor species.

Human presence dates back to indigenous San hunter‑gatherers, later succeeded by Khoikhoi pastoralists. European settlement began in the 18th century, establishing sheep and goat farming as the dominant economic activity. Today, extensive livestock ranching, limited agriculture, and mineral extraction (notably uranium, copper and phosphates) sustain the local economy. Ecotourism, centred on wildlife viewing, stargazing and cultural heritage, is a growing sector.

Conservation efforts focus on protecting endemic plant communities and managing overgrazing, with several nature reserves such as the Karoo National Park and the Namaqualand Floral Region World Heritage Site playing key roles in preserving the unique biodiversity of the Karroo.