Visiting Karoo Origins Fossil Centre

The Karoo Origins Fossil Centre is a true hidden gem, located in our neighbouring town of Graaff-Reinet. The journey itself is part of the experience — a scenic hour’s drive through the vast Karoo landscape and the Plains of Camdeboo, leading you to the fourth-oldest town in South Africa.

Home to the world-famous Rubidge Fossil Collection, the centre takes visitors on an extraordinary journey back millions of years. But it’s not just the sheer scale and diversity of the fossils on display that makes this place so special. The exhibitions are thoughtfully designed to make ancient history accessible and engaging for everyone, with striking life-sized models, clear timelines, and immersive video presentations that are genuinely awe-inspiring.

The highlight — the pièce de résistance — is the award-winning, cinema-style animated film that recreates the movement and behaviour of these prehistoric creatures. It’s a powerful experience that truly brings the distant past to life.

We highly recommend including the Karoo Origins Fossil Centre as a stop on your travels. Graaff-Reinet offers excellent restaurants (in addition to the on-site coffee shop), as well as iconic attractions such as the Valley of Desolation. Combined, these make for a rewarding and memorable full-day trip from KwaNojoli (Somerset East).