Composed of the Great and Little Karoo, this vast semi-desert region may seem harsh and unforgiving to some, but to others it’s a sanctuary of peace and silence with its own unique, compelling beauty. Extending across 400 000 square kilometres of the country, the Karoo is South Africa’s biggest ecosystem and its arid scrublands shelter a surprisingly rich diversity of plant, bird and animal life. Highlights of the area are the fossil trail in the Karoo National Park and the annual Olive Festival in the small town of Prince Albert.