Brandvlei was named after an old “Trekboer” (migrant farmer) called “Ou Brand”, who was the first to settle in the marshy area. He was soon joined by other farmers and a community developed. Brandvlei saw tragedy in 1961 when a flash flood crashed down upon the village with such fury that it was literally cut in two. The village is surrounded by large salt pans.
Archaeology and Palaeontology
San Rock Art: Visit Lekkerle and Kans farms to view the San rock engravings.
Fauna and Flora
Birdlife: The summer rains (November to March) turn the salt pans into large expanses of standing water where large bird populations congregate.
History and Architecture
Dutch Reformed Church: The church dates from the early 1900s and was built in Neo-Gothic style.
Verneukpan: The large flat expanse of Verneukpan was made famous in 1929 when Sir Malcolm Campbell unsuccessfully attempted to break the world land-speed record in his Bluebird 1. Don’t be tempted to improve on his attempt in your rented car!
