Laingsburg, a modern yet historic Karoo town, is known for its resilience and welcoming spirit. Situated along the busy N1 highway, it serves as a stopover for travellers journeying through the vast Great Karoo. The town acts as a gateway to a region rich in geological wonders and cultural heritage. It remains easily accessible from major cities in the Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape, as well as the Free State and Gauteng.
Laingsburg’s tradition of hospitality began in the mid-1700s. Farmers along the Buffels River welcomed travelers, offering them shelter and stories. These travelers ventured across the rugged mountains and arid plains. Despite the catastrophic flood in 1981 that nearly destroyed the town, the people rebuilt it. They turned it into a warm and inviting destination, showcasing their strength and spirit.
Picture: Facebook / @Laingsburg Tourism – The Buffels River
The devastating flood of 25 January 1981 altered Laingsburg forever, sweeping away much of the town’s historic charm and leaving a lasting impact on the community. Despite the destruction, a few structures, like the Dutch Reformed Church, withstood the floodwaters.
In some areas, the water rose so high that it left only the rooftops of homes visible, and the tragedy claimed many lives. Even today, you can see the high water marks on lamp posts, which serve as a stark reminder of the disaster.
The local library preserves a detailed archive of photographs and newspaper clippings from the event, allowing visitors to explore the town’s history through a guided “Flood Route” tour. Despite this tragic past, Laingsburg remains committed to its vision of being a desirable place to live, invest, and visit, ensuring a sustainable quality of life for all its residents.
Picture: Facebook / @Pieter Olckers – Anglo-Boer War Blockhouse
In the later stages of the Anglo Boer War, the Laingsburg area became involved in the conflict. To manage the movements of Boer Commandos who ventured into the Cape Colony, authorities built three blockhouses in the district. These structures played a key role in maintaining control during a time when the war spread into regions far from its original battlegrounds.
What to do in Laingsburg
Laingsburg offers a variety of activities for nature lovers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Summers bring hot and dry weather, often surpassing 30°C, while winters introduce crisp, sometimes very cold conditions, with occasional snow in the nearby areas.
Visitors can hike, mountain bike, bird watch, and embark on 4×4 adventures, ensuring there’s always something to do.
A highlight on the town’s calendar is the annual Karoo Ultra Marathon, which features 10, 21, and 80 km races. Another gem of the area is Seweweekspoort, a scenic wonder that feels like stepping into a living painting.
Flood museum
Picture: Facebook / @Laingsburg Tourism
The Laingsburg Flood Museum serves as a poignant reminder of one of South Africa’s most devastating natural disasters. It commemorates not only the tragedy but also the incredible resilience the community showed in the aftermath.
Through exhibits of personal testimonies, photographs, and videos, visitors gain insight into the flood’s impact on the town and its residents.
The museum also showcases a rich collection of Africana, including the Wolfaardt Collection, which explores the history of the Great Trek, the Anglo-Boer War, and the tools the Khoi-San people used. A unique feature of the museum is the Vloedwinkel (Flood Shop), which offers items related to the flood.
Laingsburg Dutch Reformed Church
Laingsburg is home to several carefully restored buildings from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, many of which now serve as charming bed and breakfasts. Now situated behind the current NG Kerk—a striking sandstone structure featuring a gleaming white steeple.
Anysberg Nature Reserve
Laingsburg is situated near the Anysberg Nature Reserve, a sprawling area in the semi-arid Klein Karoo that stretches between Ladismith, Touwsrivier, Montagu, and Laingsburg itself.
Buffelsrivier | Riverside Camping
For a true Karoo escape, Buffelsrivier offers riverside camping near Laingsburg, where you can immerse yourself in nature’s rugged beauty.
Koup Knoffel’s House of Garlic
Picture: Facebook / @Laingsburg Tourism
Koup Knoffel’s House of Garlic is a local spot that celebrates garlic. They offer a range of garlic products, including pickles and garlic-stuffed olives.
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