Winter through Summer, the Karoo is a magical untouched haven of wildlife and open landscapes in South Africa. Stretching over 400 000 square kilometres, from the Eastern Cape, through the Western Cape and the Northern Cape, all the way towards Namibia, South Africa’s Great Karoo is a spectacular sight — but have you ever witnessed the indescribable beauty of the Karoo’s sunsets?
An African sunset is best enjoyed and appreciated in person. No picture or video will ever capture the sheer brilliance of the colours and depths that streak across the skies like a canvas of colours ever-mixing and swirling as they paint the horizon in glorious hues.
Rich shades or orange, red and yellow fade into softer shades of purple, burgundy and pink before a scattering of stars fill the heavens, one by one, then all at once. And, before you know it, the Milky Way has opened up above you, filling the Karoo night skies with a millennia of twinkling lights, undisturbed and unfettered by distant city lights.
Big Five Sunset Safari: The ‘Golden Hour’ for Game Viewing
The best time to go game viewing in the Karoo is in the early hours of the morning, just after sunrise, and the late hours of the afternoon, just before sunset. Many people know sunset is the ‘golden hour’ for photography, but sunset safaris are also the golden hour for wildlife sightings and wildlife photography.
Most animals are just starting to settle for the night, grouping together or heading back to the open plains for added protection. Even the lions are waking up and rousing from their shaded hideouts where they’ve been sleeping to avoid midday sun.
Elephants can be seen walking down the road in search of a last drink of water before sundown, antelope are cosying up in herds, and hyenas are on the prowl while birdsongs fill the air with a serene symphony.
Most of South Africa’s wildlife goes to sleep at night, but the nocturnal animals like hyenas, lions, leopards, honey badgers, and even porcupines are only starting to become active. Sunset is the perfect moment when most of the animals in the reserve are awake, active and visible for guests to sight in their natural habitat.
Timing the Perfect Sunset in South Africa
South Africa’s golden hour can vary throughout the year. In winter, the sun dips below the horizon relatively early, casting long shadows and painting the sky with dramatic hues. As the days lengthen towards summer, sunsets arrive later, offering more time to soak in the breathtaking spectacle.
To capture the perfect sunset in Cape Town and the Western Cape, timing is key. Winters (June to August) offer shorter days, with sunsets typically gracing the horizon between 16h30 and 17h30. As spring unfolds (September to November), the sun bids adieu a little later, between 17h00 and 18h00.
Summer (December to February) boasts the latest sunsets, painting the sky with vibrant hues from 18h00 to 19h00. And autumn (March to May) provides a gentle transition, with sunsets falling between 17h30 and 18h30.
Remember, these times are approximate for each season and, although the sun begins to set within these hours, daylight and views of the sunset can often linger for up to two hours.
The beauty of South Africa doesn’t end once the sun sets below the horizon. The Karoo, in particular, is one of the best places on Earth to observe the Milky Way Galaxy with the naked eye. Far removed from the lights and sounds of city, the expanse of the Karoo offers visitors a chance to experience the true brilliance of the night sky.
Experience all of this at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve. Just a 2.5-hour journey from Cape Town, this boutique Big Five safari lodge invites you to explore the untamed beauty of the Great Karoo and witness the captivating transformation of South Africa’s golden hour into star-lit skies.
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve was founded on a deep love and respect for the natural splendour of the Karoo. What better way to experience the magic of South Africa’s wilderness than with those who understand and appreciate it the most.
With welcome drinks, two guided game drives and all meals included in your overnight stay, Inverdoorn is a great way to sight wildlife and see South Africa’s Big Five animals without having to travel far from the city. Guests will also have the chance to see a famous Karoo sunset, enjoy a 2 to 3 hour sunset game drive, and take part in Inverdoorn’s complimentary Karoo stargazing experience.
We cannot wait to share this unforgettable Karoo safari adventure with you. Book now or contact our helpful team for the latest accommodation specials, rates and information about your stay.
