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Approximately 250 million years ago the Hantam Karoo was a large in-land sea surrounded by forest. When Gondwanaland broke up the Hantam Karoo became the dry arid area it is now. This history has helped to create a unique and interesting landscape with an abundance of wildlife and unusual vegetation.
The unpolluted skies of the area offer visitors breath-taking night time views of the stars, and is the location of the Southern African Large Telescope. There are also many 4x4 trails in the area going through the rugged mountains and koppies.