Discover Swartrivier Wildlife

A magical and diverse Karoo experience

Kudu bull with large set of horns in green environment

Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, South Africa, our farm Swartrivier boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when it began as a domestic livestock farm. In 1980, the Hobson family made it their home, and in 2006, began game breeding when they introduced the very first herd of sable antelope. This moment marked the birth of what we now know as Swartrivier Wildlife. In 2019, the Griffiths family took the reins, preserving this tradition of stewardship in the breathtaking Karoo landscape.

A Wildlife Haven

Our farm is situated in the Swartruggens hills of the Jansenville district, where valley bushveld and Karoo biomes intersect, creating a haven for South Africa's diverse wildlife. Apart from indigenous plains game, Swartrivier is also home to herds of sable, roan, and buffalo. These animals were sourced from some of the best herds in the country. We take pride in our conservation practices, passively rotating these herds through veld camps to ensure the health of our grazing plants, allowing them time to rest and rejuvenate.

A tree with pink blossoms surrounded by other green trees and shrubs, with a distant hilly landscape under an overcast sky.
A group of six African buffaloes walking through a grassy savannah landscape with bushes and a hill in the background.

Traditional Farm Stay

In addition to our thriving wildlife, Swartrivier Wildlife maintains a flock of Meatmaster sheep, renowned for their succulent mutton. These sheep play a vital role in our veld management strategy, participating in a short graze, long rest system that supports our commitment to sustainable practices.

Swartrivier Wildlife also invites you to come and stay on the farm, offering the charm and comfort of our newly restored traditional Karoo farmhouse and two rustic cottages.

Purple flowering tree with branches and a brown birdhouse among the blossoms.
Aerial view of a rural landscape with a house, trees, a swimming pool, and a covered parking area with solar panels in a dry, hilly area.

Our dedication to the environment extends beyond the animals and offering accommodation. Swartrivier Wildlife takes a strong stance on water conservation and the rejuvenation of the spekboom plant. We employ innovative methods such as Artificial Recharge to replenish unused water into boreholes and maintain a network of earth and sand dams to ensure the efficient management of this invaluable resource. We also prioritize the well-being of every creature in our ecosystem, installing mini water troughs to provide access for smaller wildlife such as tortoises that may otherwise struggle to reach standard stock water troughs.

A black and white antelope with long curved horns standing in a dry, grassy landscape.

Swartrivier Wildlife is not just a place in the Karoo to stay; it's a living testament to our unwavering commitment to the land, its history, and the preservation of its natural wonders. Come and be a part of our dream and enjoy the natural beauty of the Karoo.