KLEIN KAROO CAMINO'S STORY THROUGH THE LENS
The Klein Karoo Camino project's roots go back to March 2018. Ockie Cloete and Okkie Fourie had a dream of regularly bringing visitors to the Klein Karoo. Plans were made and the infrastructure was put in place. Covid19 however, brought everything to a standstill.
On 9 October 2022, after public gatherings were allowed again, Cloete and Fourie presented a concert with the theme "Hope" at the Sandstone Church De Hoop near Oudtshoorn. The idea for the "Klein Karoo Camino" as well as the "Route of the Sandstone Churches" arose during the preparation of the concert at De Hoop.
Solidarity Helping Hand, Western Cape Region, was involved to make a tangible contribution to the wider community.
The concert of "HOPE" at the Sandstone Church De Hoop.
De Hoop: Where the Klein Karoo Camino Takes Root
The story of the Klein Karoo is intertwined with the ostrich industry. White ostrich feathers were known as "White gold" in the 19th century. The recorded story of the ostrich industry begins near the De Hoop church building, 12km west of Oudtshoorn. Ockie Cloete and Okkie Fourie related the ups and downs of the feather industry, De Hoop, and Covid19. De Hoop is symbolic of a devastated community that has risen again despite severe hardship.
The four artists who performed at the concert at De Hoop.
Camino of the Sandstone Churches
In September 2023, we first offered this route as a bus tour. A variety of attractions contribute to a unique experience of the Klein Karoo. The feedback from guests has been extremely positive and highlighted the viability of the: "Route of the Sandstone Churches".
Tenor Pierre van der Westhuizen
In support of Helping Hand Western Cape Region, Cloete, Fourie and Marietjie Viljoen (Pick an Artist) organized a concert with tenor Pierre van der Westhuizen. It is rare for such a well-regarded classical artist to visits the Klein Karoo! Pierre performed at the ACVV House Bellinghanhof during April 2024, as well as at the Dutch Reformed Congregations Park and Moedergemeente. At Wesbank Primary School, Pierre performed in front of a large audience together with the school choir. Pianist Suleyman Human provided the accompaniment. Advertising, media and ticket sales were handled by Marietjie Viljoen, Pick an Artist.
FAMILY TOUR NOVEMBER 2024.
It was such a pleasure to accompany this family on the Route of the Sandstone Churches. We really enjoyed every moment with them!
Even Bollie Wollie, the pet sheep, posed for a photo.
LYNETTE BEER
The well-known life coach, author, motivational speaker, developer of the “Four-Color Temperament Model” as well as “Seeds of Inspiration”, Lynette Beer, visited us in April 2024. It was a great privilege to welcome this dynamic lady and other guests at Klein Karoo Camino. Lynette's performance at Wesbank Primary School was particularly successful. Singer Michael Lindt performed as guest artist.
Bicycles on the Spitskop-Route
The Spitskop route is 130km of mountain biking heaven. For every uphill there is also a downhill! A highlight of 2024 was the mountain bikers who mastered the daring Spitskop-Route.
CORPORATE GUESTS
The variety of routes of the Klein Karoo Camino and the expertise of its staff offer a fresh opportunity for renewal to corporate customers.
A tailor-made itinerary that includes the highlights of the Klein Karoo was offered to 23 corporate guests in October 2024. Our guests enjoyed the hikes alternated with innovative activities.
The Klein Karoo Camino can be adapted to the needs of Corporate Cycling Groups as well. The program is completely customizable according to your individual needs.
YEAR-END HIGHLIGHT
The highlight of our activities was a unique workshop - presented in November 2024. The presenters were Marika du Toit-van Heerden and Johan Kloppers. This project is close to the heart of the Klein Karoo Camino. It is being refined to provide a more focused experience for 2025.
Route of the Sandstone Churches 25 APRIL - 2 MAY 2025
From 25 April to 2 May 2025, the Route of the Sandstone Churches was hiked accompanied by Hannes Noëth, executive director of Solidarity Helping Hand. Hikers converged on the Klein Karoo from every corner of the compass.
The evening before our departure, we had the privilege of hosting renowned author and former newspaper editor Bun Booyens, who gave an engaging talk on his book "Troep."
The weather was sunny and perfect, with light rain on the penultimate day. The extraordinary natural beauty of the route along the foothills of the Swartberg mountains left hikers in awe.
The hike ended on Friday evening around a fireplace with Ockie Cloete’s unsurpassed oxtail pot. We said goodbye as friends, and look forward to the next hike with Hannes Noëth in aid of Helping Hand.
SPRING DAY 2025 – THE FIRST E-BIKE ON THE SPITSKOP TRAIL
Spring Day 2025 was celebrated with the departure of cyclists on the Spitskop Route. We were privileged to welcome an E-bike onto the route. With the expert help of the experienced Mario Nell from Oudtshoorn Bicycles, the E-bike was prepared for the ride and performed flawlessly.
The weather was perfect and ideal for cycling. Accompanied by a support vehicle, the cyclists were able to enjoy the scenic and pristine environment along the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains unhindered. A great compliment was received from the guests who came from KwaZulu-Natal and are well acquainted with the Drakensberg and KZN Midlands: The Klein Karoo landscapes and the Spitskop Route completely exceeded their expectations.
After a wonderful week of cycling, the tour was concluded with a visit to the attractions of Oudtshoorn. It was a great privilege to accompany these very special guests and spend time with them.
SIX FRIENDS ON THE SPITSKOP
ROUTE - SEPTEMBER 2025
Six close friends asked for a
“Klein Karoo hiking experience.” They had kept in touch since their university
days. Over the years they had shared in each other’s life stories. For five
days and 60km we walked part of the Spitskop route with them. The pristine
beauty, comfort and hospitality impressed them. Being able to be a part of
these special people’s lives for a short time is a precious privilege.
Cornè van Eck was the convenor of
the group and said:
Good morning Okkie
I just wanted to say thank you
again for your wonderful and pleasant Old-School hospitality, good food, chats,
caring and life-sharing! Our 6 friends had a great time, walked, slept, caught
up and relaxed!
Greetings and thanks
