The Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre depicts the setting in the area around Nieu Bethesda 253 million years ago during the Permian Period. The centre showcases the fossils found both in Nieu Bethesda and in other places in South Africa.

The fossils date to a time 50 million years before the age of dinosaurs when the continents were merged in a supercontinent called Pangea.

HOW TO GET HERE

The nearest airport is at Port Elizabeth, and the whole journey from here will probably take you about three to four hours on reasonably good roads. From Port Elizabeth, take the N10 north towards Cradock, but turn left onto the R63 at Cookhouse. Go through Somerset East and Pearston to Graaff-Reinet. Half an hour north of this town, you'll see a turn-off to Nieu Bethesda. The village is tiny and you'll easily find the fossil centre.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Nieu Bethesda experiences extreme temperatures, so try to avoid midsummer (December to February) and midwinter (June to August).

AROUND THE AREA

The historical town of Graaff-Reinet is nearby, surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park and its iconic Valley of Desolation. Only 10 minutes out of Nieu Bethesda is Ganora Guest Farm, which has an excellent fossil collection.

TOURS TO DO

One of the resident guides will take you to the nearby dry riverbed to see fossils in situ. Alternately, you can go on a donkey cart tour of the little town. Ganora Guest Farm outside Nieu Bethesda also has a compelling fossil tour.

GET AROUND

One of the delights of Nieu Bethesda is that you can walk or cycle almost everywhere through quiet, dusty streets.

LENGTH OF STAY

Nieu Bethesda is a good day trip from nearby Graaff-Reinet or Cradock. But it has a quiet magic that may persuade you to experience this quintessential Karoo town overnight or over a weekend.

WHERE TO STAY

Outsiders has a number of upmarket (and downmarket) options, including houses that you can rent.

WHAT TO EAT

There are a number of good restaurants, including the Karoo Lamb, the Village Inn and Two Goats Deli (at the Sneeuberg Brewery).

BEST BUYS