Sites of Interest
Postmasburg attractions range from the historical and spiritual to the cultural and environmental. Howitzer Gun Civic Centre is a historical site of interest and exists to honour courageous men (who had formerly resided in the area) sacrificed their lives during World War II. Lohatla military base is located north of the small town and acts as a training centre for the South African National Defence Force.
In close proximity to the town of Postmasburg is an environmental attraction: The Witsand Nature Reserve. Lying just 1 hour and 30 minutes away from the small town, the nature reserve is home to a diverse selection of fauna and flora. With over 170 bird species including the Namaqua sandgrouse, Africa’s smallest raptor: the pygmy falcon, and the sociable weaver, this ecological paradise is an ideal location for birding enthusiasts.
While its white dunes reaching a height of 20 - 30 metres is known to emit a rumbling sound once disrupted. Witsand intersects three primary vegetation types: the Orange River Nama Karoo, the Karroid Kalahari Bushveld, and the Kalahari Mountain Bushveld, which results in a complex mix of vegetation types. The reserve’s landscape includes plains covered in shrubs, rugged hills and ridges, open dunes, grasslands and the concentrated Kalahari Bushveld forests. While within the dune system is spotted by shallow pockets of water due to the high water table (the underground level at which the soil is saturated with water) of the Witsand network.
Animal life found within the area include springbok, duiker, meerkats, porcupines, gemsbok and spring hares. While the standard outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and 4x4 trails are on offer to the adventurous.
San Rock Art
Postmasburg and its surrounding locations are known for its mineral rich landscape. This attracted and sustained its original inhabitants, the San, who used the minerals for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Also referred to as ‘bushmen’, the San left their mark on the landscape in various artistic ways, particularly through San rock art. The preserved depictions of their inner workings and lifestyles can be viewed at Pan Heuwel and “Meerlust” farms, which lie approximately 50 km outside of the town.