What is better than a beautiful sunset? Perhaps a sunset in the Karoo. The word Karoo comes from the Khoisan word meaning “land of thirst”. And here you can find vegetation, which consists of assorted succulents and low scrub bushes spaced from one foot to several feet apart. The area is devoid of surface water in general.

We went for a drive in the Northern Cape just outside Kimberley on the Modderrivier route – Magersfontein. This area forms part of the upper Karoo. The Northern Cape is the largest and most sparsely populated province of South Africa. It is something special although not to everyone’s liking. We find it special and tranquil.

We found an open veld, parked our little Jimny, and just appreciated that golden hour. The perfect time of the day. They say photographers do their best work during this period. Golden hour is that period in the day just before the sun sets or after it rises, when the light is redder and softer than usual. And boy did we get a array of different color and light.

From red, to orange, to the most amazing lavender color touching the clouds, with some clouds having a darker scarlet shade to it. It is difficult to put in words, I can just imagine how many colors it will take an artist to paint this wonder of the day. It’s beauty is mind blowing. This is the work of a Master.

There is a certain quietness when you are in a Karoo veld. A deafening quietness. No wind. It is so amazing, when you sit and listen you can hear nature. The sounds of the birds, the crickets. Here you can find oneness with your soul. When look out into the endless nothingness you feel small, and realize that your time here is a privilege, and yes short.

We sat in the veld till darkness befell us. Headed back home with a deep feeling of peace. This is life. This is quietude.

By: Budget Overlander