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Jan Bester

@janbesterswartberg

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Treasure time for that is the stuff life is made off...

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A special day with special people

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A landmark moment for astro-tourism in the Klein Karoo.

For more than a decade, Jan Bester, owner of @true_south_travel and @karoostargazing — has been pioneering the High “5” Stargazing concept in the Klein Karoo since 2009, helping to shape the region into a truly unique night-sky destination.

In December 2025, Jan was selected by the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism to participate in a groundbreaking stargazing training programme for professional guides, underwritten by The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) — a major step forward in formalising stargazing as a recognised guiding discipline.

The intensive three-month programme, which commenced in January 2026, culminated in a prestigious certification ceremony. There, Jan received his official qualification from the Honourable Minister, Dr. Ivan Meyer, marking a significant milestone for both his journey and the broader astro-tourism sector.

Today, Jan stands as the only FGASA-accredited and qualified stargazing guide in the Klein Karoo — offering visitors an immersive, interpretive experience of one of the world’s most extraordinary night skies.

Through his continued passion and innovation, the Klein Karoo is fast becoming a leading destination for guided stargazing — where science, storytelling, and the vast African sky come together in unforgettable ways.

#KarooStargazing #AstroTourism #FGASA #TrueSouthTravel #KleinKaroo

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Team @kougarhinosanctuary & @lombardinigamefarm killing it at @wtm_africa 2026 🦏

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Experience the southern celestial "High 5"

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Extremely privileged to be part of the selected group to obtain a Astro Guide qualification presented by FAGASA.

Astro tourism is becoming a sought after activity for local and international travellers.

Welcome to the Klein Karoo this is " High 5" country...

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Another fantastic stargazing session exploring the southern celestial " High 5"

#karoostargazing
#oudtshoorn

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Introducing our Israeli guests to the splendour of the Swartberg Mountain.

#truesouthtravel #karoo #oudtshoorn #swartbergpas

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The Swartberg Pass is a national monument and offers a scenic drive over the Swartberg Mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) At 1580 meters above sea level the pass offers pristine views over the Klein- and Great Karoo. The 27 kilometers pass is a "must do" experience for every visitor to Oudtshoorn.

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Once again, the Swartberg Pass is rated as among the top 10% things to do worldwide!

#truesouthtravel #swartbergpas #oudtshoorn #karoo # kleinkaroo
@oudtshoorn_derust_tourism
@oudtshoorncourant
@janbesterswartberg
@africasafariconnexion
@a2zebraadventures
@followers

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Epic!

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Epic!

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Fantastic day on the Swartberg Pass with newly- weds, Rob and Ashley all the way from New York.

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