Leeu-Gamka is a small town located at the confluence of the Leeu and Gamka rivers in the Central Karoo. The names "Leeu" and "Gamka" mean "lion" in Afrikaans and ǀXam *, respectively. The town's origins trace back to 1879 when a railway station was established as part of the Cape Government Railways' western main line, serving as a crucial link between Cape Town and Kimberley.
Initially known as "Fraserburg Road," the town was renamed Leeu-Gamka in 1950. Its strategic location made it a popular stopover for travellers and traders during the diamond rush era, leading to the development of essential amenities, including a church, school and hotel.
Today, Leeu-Gamka remains a testament to the resilience of small Karoo towns, maintaining its historical charm while serving as a gateway for those exploring the vast landscapes of the region.
*ǀXam was an early San (Bushmen) language
