Karoo Farm Holidays at Hillandale -- Activities

The Hillandale farm area of 6,400 hectares extends across wide Karoo plains and rocky mountainous ridges. The vast open spaces invite you to explore at your own pace, whether on foot, mountain bike or 4 x 4, the choice is yours.

We have developed marked trails in some of our most interesting areas, and we provide maps on your arrival and suggestions to suit your preferences.


There is ample scope for short rambles, day walks or longer wilderness hikes.

Take your choice of gentle or adrenaline-pumping mountain bike rides, or explore our 4x4 trails which extend over adjoining farms and include easy scenic routes, multiple river crossings, and remote and challenging trails.



With the vast amount of space, and only a small number of guests at any time, different activities can co-exist easily without impacting on each other.

Limited hunting of designated game species is available by prior arrangement only.

Guests are welcome to watch and participate in many of our farm activities and there is usually something to interest visitors of all ages. Of course participation is subject to consideration for your safety and comfort, and the wellbeing of our animals.

On the farm we run about 2,500 animals, mostly Merino sheep which provide fine grade wool, and Angora goats which provide luxurious mohair, as well as a small number of milking cows, pigs and poultry.

Springbuck and fallow deer are plentiful and usually easily seen. Lots of other wild animals inhabit the area, all of them shy by nature. With patience and a bit of luck you may spot many species, such as baboons, antbears, steenbok, various rabbits and hares, jackals, foxes, mongoose, otters, meerkats (suricate), lynx and wild native cats.

Keen bird watchers may be rewarded with sightings of some 80 species, and many birds can be seen around the crop lands, river and weirs, all quite close to the homestead.

For plant enthusiasts the Karoo's unique flora is full of interest, and there are often dramatic floral displays after good rains when unusual plants suddenly come into bloom.

If you would like to keep in touch with our farm and family activities and local events, we invite you to read our Hillandale News.