about us
embrace the charm
At Konka Guest Farm, we’re all about embracing the charm of the past while enjoying the comforts of today and the future of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
Our farm is steeped in history, dating back to when Carnarvon was established in 1853. With its iconic corbelled houses and rich cultural heritage, Konka Guest Farm and its surroundings are just begging to be explored.
Around 1 860ha in size, Konka Farm is mainly suited for sheep, cattle, and game farming. This working farm comprises of five different grazing camps: Moerbei, Rooidam, Kafhok, Bokpoort and Gousblom.
our farm
Historical Significance
Carnarvon isn’t just a dot on the map, it’s a treasure trove of stories!
Step back with us in time to 1853, when this little gem was once a bustling mission station named Harmsfontein, serving as a waypoint for early explorers and traders making their way between Cape Town and Botswana. In 1874, it donned its new name in honour of Lord Carnarvon, the British Colonial Secretary.
The town is famous for its corbelled houses, those charming domed-roof structures built from flat stones between 1811 and 1815. These structures reflect the ingenuity of pioneers who adapted to the harsh environment of the Karoo.
They’re not just buildings; they’re a peek into history and you can book a stay in them!
The corbelled house is an oddity.
There are 2 corbelled rooms in Konka Main House. The corbelled house is an oddity. It is also historically significant, built by early trekboers (migrant stock farmers) in the early 1800s as dwellings and granaries, as there was little or no access to wood other than the odd Acacia tree and clumps of bush. It made sense to use dolerite and sandstone to which these farmers had plenty of access, instead.
Despite looking rather uncomfortable these stone dwellings make for good homes. The ceilings extend six metres high, and the walls are thick, retaining the warmth of the sun during winter and remaining cool in summer. The bonus is the ability to build an indoor fire by simply removing a roof tile.
What makes them even more odd is that one finds this style of architecture on the Mediterranean in Europe. Similar building techniques hail as far back as 4 000 years ago. There are examples in Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Ireland, Greenland and Italy. The Irish are said to have carried the corbelling tradition northward to Iceland, Greenland and even North America, giving credence to the cultural parallels between Eskimo and Celt.
Today these 200-year-old igloos offer guests a truly unique experience!
amazing
Attractions
Connection to SKA
Located near the SKA project, which aims to revolutionize our understanding of the universe through advanced radio astronomy, Konka Guest Farm offers a unique blend of historical exploration and scientific advancement.
Guests can enjoy the serene landscapes while learning about groundbreaking research being conducted just a short distance away.
Explore Carnarvon
If you’re a fan of poetry, you’ll be thrilled to know that A.G. Visser, a celebrated Afrikaans poet, called Carnarvon home. You can still visit the house where he lived! For history buffs, the Carnarvon Museum is a must-see. Housed in a building that dates back to 1907, it was once the community hall for the Dutch Reformed Church and now showcases fascinating antiques, including an old hearse. Don’t forget to check out the preserved corbelled house right outside!
Koeëlkop
If you’re looking for a scenic hike, consider climbing Koeëlkop, where a historic fort was constructed during a significant period in South Africa’s past to provide a strategic lookout point. The hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including a glimpse into local history.
Koeëlkop is an ideal spot to witness stunning sunsets over the Karoo landscape as the colours shift with the setting sun.
We can’t wait to welcome you
Meet your team
Our team, led by the fabulous Ilda Hugo, is here to ensure your stay is as delightful as possible.
Owners
Breda van Niekerk & Katinka Hugo
Breda and Katinka have been partners for over 20 years and are proud parents to two wonderful teenagers, Kiara and Ruak. Breda is a passionate organic farmer dedicated to sustainable practices, while Katinka brings over 30 years of experience as a compassionate caregiver for quadriplegics, showing deep empathy for both people and nature. Their values have clearly influenced their children: Kiara has become a devoted horse “whisperer,” and Ruak has developed a profound love for nature, particularly for reptiles.
“At Konka Guest Farm, we invite you to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Karoo. Whether you’re looking to relax under starry skies or embark on adventures exploring the SKA or local history, we’ve got you covered! Our cozy accommodation caters to every traveller’s needs—perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Join us at Konka Guest Farm for an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, stories, and perhaps a few starlit nights by the fire. We can’t wait to welcome you to our little slice of paradise!”
See you soon!
~ Breda van Niekerk, Katinka Hugo & Ilda Hugo
General Manager/Host
Ilda Hugo
Ilda has been a cherished member of the Hugo family for over 20 years. Known for her vibrant personality and infectious sense of humor, she is dedicated to ensuring that every guest enjoys a delightful stay at Konka Guest Farm. Ilda is passionate about hospitality and is always eager to accommodate guests’ needs. She welcomes constructive feedback and is approachable for any concerns you may have during your visit.
The real owners
Katinka’s Cats
At Konka Guest Farm, life is purr-fectly delightful with the presence of two charming feline companions:
Kuifie-kat & Shadow
These adorable cats bring joy and warmth to the farm, each with their own unique personality that makes them irresistible cuddle buddies!