Keimoes, Green Kalahari

Keimoes is a beautiful little village which probably owes its name and attractiveness to the local shimmering fountain. Situated in the Northern Cape in South Africa, Keimoes boasts an abundance of green foliage and undulating hills complemented by warm weather and blue skies.

The name Keimoes is said to be a combination of the Nama words “gei”, meaning great, and “mus”, meaning fountain. However, some people believe that Klaas Lucas, a river pirate Koranna leader, gave this name to the colony that he established on the banks of the Orange River when he discovered that a colony of mice was already living there. The Koranna word “Keimoes” means “Mouse nest”.

One of the greatest attractions in Keimoes is the Tierberg Nature Reserve situated just 4km outside the town. This beautiful reserve includes Tierberg, meaning “Tiger Mountain”, which affords the visitor with a magnificent view of the Orange River Valley, its beautiful islands as well as its irrigation scheme. The reserve comprises 160 ha of land and is home to several species of antelopes and indigenous flora. In spring, this area is truly a marvel as the abundance of different flowers explodes into riotous colour. Late winter surprises many with an extraordinary show of aloes in flower.

One of the Orange River Wine Cellars Co-operative’s largest distillery in the lower Orange River Valley lies on the slopes of the Tierberg Mountain. Enjoy a fantastic wine tasting tour of the facility, as well as the spectacular views.

There are also a few monuments in Keimoes boasting rich cultural heritage. These include the Dutch Reformed Mission Church built by The Rev Schröder in 1889 as well as the Persian waterwheel. This is a reconstructed waterwheel and interestingly still in use on an irrigation canal along Main Road. Although quiet, Keimoes is fantastically tranquil and beautiful. Explore and discover its many wonders and unique beauty.