An hour's drive from Jo'burg brings you to the quaint little town of Parys. Being the oldest and largest meteorite impact site in the world, Parys definitely packs a punch.

A meteor makes its impact…

The jewel of the Vaal River, Parys is fast-developing country town in the Vredefort Dome Area.

It originated roughly around 2 020 million years ago when a giant meteorite struck the earth just south east of the Vredefort in the Free State Province. The impact was so great that if it formed what has become known as the Vredefort Dome or crater. This beauty measures about 2 000km in diameter and is best viewed via a hot-air balloon adventure.

Visit the Garden Route and discover the other undiscovered jewels.

A little bit of history…

The town owes its name to German surveyor, Mr Schilbach, a war veteran, who felt the town had a strong resemblance to the then city of Paris.

Just like Paris has the Seine River, Parys has the Vaal River. Adding to its history, the two adjoining farms were named after the forts Issy and Versailles that was situated outside the French capital.

The Vaal River makes its contributions…

Probably one of the oldest rivers, the Vaal River was created when Karoo sediments covered the crater.

It meandered across flattish plains and matured over time. Eventually through much discourse, the river became steeper and faster flowing.

Today the Vaal River and the surrounding areas is the playground for white water rafters, abseiler, hikers, mountain bikers, fly fishing fanatics, kayaking junkies and even the avid golfer.
The crater is great to view in a hot air balloon so you can see exactly the impact that it has made in the town. These days the crater is best for observing flora and fauna.

Not forgetting the other adventure-induced activities such as the 4x4 routes, horse hiking trails, paintball bow and arrow hunting and flying.

Game drives give you the chance to see a wide variety of animals like lions, crocodiles, antelope and wild dogs. What will really open your eyes is a visit to the rehabilitation centre for wild birds and the Cheetah Breeding Farm.

Now a World Heritage Site…

In 2005, Vredefort Dome was declared South Africa’s seventh World Heritage Site. When visiting the town pop into the Parys Information Tourism Centre for more information on the impact of the historical collision.

Something borrowed, something old and something definitely new…

With so much to grasp, Parys doesn’t disappoint visitors. It is also making a name for itself as a antique shopper’s haven.

So next time, don't just pass through small towns, instead pop in and discover what it has to offer.

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