Your Guide to Touwsrivier: 10 reasons to visit Touwsrivier – YOUR Gateway to the Karoo / Western Cape

Touwsrivier is a small town located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, approximately 160 kilometers East of Cape Town. Located in a scenic area Touwsrivier offers visitors a unique and authentic South African experience that will be appealing to locals and overseas visitors.

In collaboration with Touwsrivier Tourism, we have prepared a series of posts that will familiarize you with the area and whet your appetite to plan a trip and explore this side of our beautiful province.

Are you looking for a new adventure? Consider visiting Touwsrivier! Here are just a few reasons why you won’t want to miss out:

MONUMENTS

Despite Touwsrivier being a small town, there are surprisingly some monuments in the area worth visiting:

Class 23 Locomotive – plinthed in Gideon Joubert Park, Jane Street 50.

Thembekile Mandela Memorial Stone – Late President Nelson Mandela’s eldest son died in a tragic motor vehicle accident on the N1 near Touwsrivier on July 13^th, 1969. Gideon Joubert Park, Jane Street 50.

Afrikaans Language Monument – A monument dedicated to the Afrikaans language.  Gideon Joubert Park, Jane Street 50

Transit of Venus – Situated at the former Douglas Hotel.

Delville Wood War Memorial – 33°20’24.4” S -20°02’14.5” E, built in honor of Touwsrivier men who died in the Great War.

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BIG 5 SAFARI / GAME

There are several game reserves and national parks within driving distance from Touwsriver where you can see the Big 5 and other wildlife. Observing wildlife and getting up close to them is an amazing experience and a must-do in one’s lifetime.

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ACCOMMODATION

Touwsrivier offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different needs and budgets. Visitors can choose from self-catering units, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, lodges, and camping sites. Many of these establishments are located on farms, providing a unique and tranquil experience for guests.

Some of the accommodation options in Touwsrivier offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, while others are situated close to wildlife reserves and game farms, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area up close.

Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay with all the amenities or a more rustic and authentic experience, Touwsrivier has something to offer. The hospitality of the locals is also an added bonus, making your stay even more enjoyable.

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ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Touwsrivier provides plenty of opportunities for adventure seekers to get their adrenaline pumping and make unforgettable memories, from relaxing hiking and walking trails, to mountain biking, rock climbing, and wildlife safaris, 4×4 drives and shooting, knife forging and bushcraft/survival Ccourses. There is something for everyone, no matter their age or interests.

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STARRY NIGHTS & FRESH AIR

Touwsrivier is a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature, especially the stunning night sky. With low levels of light pollution, the night sky is often clear, providing an excellent opportunity for stargazing. You can sit outside, relax and enjoy the starry sky above while taking in the fresh air.

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FOSSILS (ROCK ART)

These sites contain ancient rock paintings and engravings that are believed to have been created by the San people, who were the original inhabitants of the region. Some of these sites are protected and can be visited with a guide.

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FLORA AND FAUNA

Touwsrivier is located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, and the area boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. The town is situated in a semi-arid region, and the vegetation is predominantly made up of shrubs and grasses.

One of the main attractions of the area is the conservation efforts that are in place to preserve the local fauna and flora. Several nature reserves and game reserves in the region offer visitors the opportunity to view a variety of wildlife.

The area is home to many species of antelope, including the springbok, duiker, steenbok and klipspringer. Other larger mammals that can be seen in the region include the Cape Mountain Zebra, Kudu and Eland. Predators such as the leopard also inhabit the region.

There are also many species of reptiles and insects that can be found in the area, including several species of snakes, lizards, and spiders.

Did you know that Touwsrivier also has one of the top 10 most endangered species, even more endangered than the Rhino, The Riverine Rabbit in the area?

Regarding birdlife, the Touwsrivier region is home to various species, including the Verreaux’s Eagle (Witkruisarend), African Fish Eagle and the Martial Eagle.

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RELAXATION – SPA

Touwsriver is a destination that offers many opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. The natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Many of the lodges and guesthouses in Touwsrivier offer spa treatments and wellness activities, such as yoga classes and meditation sessions, to help guests unwind and recharge. Some of the spa treatments include massages, facials, and body wraps, with the use of local, organic ingredients to nourish and hydrate the skin.

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BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPE AND VIEWS

Touwsrivier is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and views. The town is situated in the picturesque Breede River Valley, which is known for its stunning mountain ranges, rolling hills, and fertile vineyards.

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LOCAL HOSPITALITY

To experience the warmth of South African hospitality in Touwsrivier, you may want to consider staying at a local guesthouse or bed and breakfast, where you can interact with the owners and other guests. You may also want to explore local restaurants, where you can sample traditional South African cuisine and chat with the staff and other patrons.

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Overall, Touws Rivier offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor activities, wildlife, history, and relaxation, and with warm local hospitality making it an excellent destination for anyone looking for an authentic South African experience.

Stay tuned for another blog post in the Touwsriver Series, which will focus on accommodation. Coming soon!

The blog post was written in Collaboration with Touwsrivier Tourism. Images (as credited).

For more info please visit Touwsrivier Tourism WEBSITE, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.