Beaufort West is ideally situated as a central base from which to explore the Great Karoo and the Passes of the Swartberg Mountains. Beaufort West is situated in the Central Karoo area of the Western Cape, South Africa. The old Anglo-Boer War blockhouse still guards the red railway bridge. Built of local Karoo stone, it is a silent reminder of the boer and British soldiers that are buried in the town cemeteries. Beaufort West - Place of Pioneers, is the oldest town in the Central Karoo, and lies in an area which has been inhabited for centuries. Some of the world's most interesting stone age sites have been discovered on its outskirts. Bushmen once lived here and fine examples of their rock art work have been found nearby. Beaufort West became the world’s richest collecting grounds for fossils and Scientists have since described the Karoo and its fossils as one of the great wonders of the world. Beaufort West offers many varied activities and the area is a popular eco-tourism stop, particularly in spring, autumn and winter. Many tourists come to holiday on one of the farms, walk or hike in the mountains, or try out the challenging 4x4 routes.
