Karoo

Karoo, a generic name given to the high plains of Cape Colony. But the word is more usually associated with the Great Karoo, the elevated basin, more than 3000 feet above sea-level, and 350 miles long by 70 to 80 wide, which lies between the Nieuweveld Berge on the north and the Zwarte Berge on the south. It is not a sandy desert; after rain its rich red soil is covered with a thick carpet of grass and flowers. Nevertheless, during nine months of the year, when rain does not fall, it has a parched, barren appearance. Large herds of sheep and goats (Angora), with smaller flocks of ostriches, cattle, and horses, are pastured on it during the season of grass. The dearth of water is now being in some parts obviated by windmills and wells for procuring the water that is generally found at some distance below the surface. Two centuries ago this district was a perfect paradise for game, which even yet is not quite extinct. See H. A. Bryden, Kloof and Karoo (1889).