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Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn Overview
Oudtshoorn Recommended for:
  • Caves /
  • Wildlife Sanctuary /
  • Shopping /
  • Restaurants /
  • Waterfalls /
  • Hot Air Ballooning /
  • Quad Biking /
 

Description

Oudtshoorn, the largest town in the Little Karoo, is most well known as the centre of the ostrich farming industry. Taller than many men, these huge flightless birds weigh in at about 150kg and are very fast and – surprisingly – very dangerous. Don’t tangle with one. How embarrassing would it be to have to explain to the guys in the office that, while you were on holiday, a bird kicked you almost to death and you landed up in hospital with broken bones, concussion and a few major lacerations? You’d never live it down. But they are interesting – and delicious. Their almost totally fat-free and cholesterol-free red meat is reputed to be particularly healthy, and is made into a huge range of innovative dishes in local restaurants. The most traditional way to eat an ostrich, though, is in the form of biltong – sun-dried, spiced strips of meat. But, hey. Why eat the bird, when you can wear it?

Ostrich feathers have moved in and out of fashion a few times over the last couple of centuries but, at their heyday, they were worth more than their weight in gold and they funded the building of some magnificent mansions, which were dubbed “feather palaces” by the envious neighbours. Le Roux’s Townhouse, which is an annex of the CP Nel Museum, is an excellent example of this early form of conspicuous consumption.

There are also a number of farms where you could watch an ostrich display, learn all about these amazing birds and go wild buying ostrich feather and leather products. The leather has almost overtaken the feathers as a must-have fashion accessory. Distinctively knobbed (how many leathers are plucked?) and very hard-wearing, it’s used to make anything from key rings to full length coats, car upholstery and even saddles. (OK – so far, one rather weird Cape Town polo player has decided that a knobbly ostrich leather saddle is a good idea. But, who knows, it could take off.)

You could, if you were totally heartless, also ride an ostrich. Sure – they weigh 150 kg and are very strong but – and this is a big but – they have really tiny little ankles so many of the birds that are ridden are permanently injured. Which is not really a problem, as they’re destined to be turned into biltong and handbags, anyhow, but it’s worth thinking about.

Speaking of handbags, there’s a crocodile ranch just outside the town, and also a “wildlife ranch”, where you can dive with crocodiles from the safety of a cage, see a range of predators, including lions, tigers and jaguars, and you could even – for a price – “adopt” a baby cheetah. While we’re on the animal thing – there’s a bunny farm, where you can pet the angora rabbits and buy lovely soft garments from angora wool, and even a lovely, child-friendly restaurant where you can ride a camel. Camels, fortunately, are renowned for their sturdy ankles.

The other major attraction in Oudtshoorn is the Cango Caves, which extend for miles into the extensive limestone hills and exhibit beautiful crystal and flow structures. You can do a one hour tour or tackle the more adventurous one and a half hour tour, which includes some tight squeezes.

One of the best ways to see Oudtshoorn and its surrounds – if you’re relatively energetic – is to do a semi-escorted cycling trip on the Swartberg Pass. You (along with the bikes) get driven to the top of the pass 50km from town, from where you make your own way back. The first 10km is a steep, twisting, turning, incredibly scenic unpaved mountain pass – but all downhill. From there the next 10km is a relatively steep downhill on tar, and the last 30km is mostly downhill or flat.
En route back to town, you can stop to visit the Cango Caves, the Wildlife Ranch, an ostrich farm, and even stop to ride a camel. A short detour (with some uphills) could take you to a lovely waterfall. It’s a full day ride but – here’s the best part – if you decide you’ve had enough cycling, you can phone to be picked up and only pay a small “rescue fee”.

There are some great restaurants and a smattering of lovely guest houses. The Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (Little Karoo National Arts Festival), which is a whole load of fun, is held in April.

Oudtshoorn & Surrounds

*Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling distance.

In and Around

Popular Attractions
Nearby Locations
Nearest Airport
Featured Destinations
Gallery and Museums
 

Customer Reviews

Reviews 34 of 34
Marika Greeff
South Africa

We had a very enjoyable stay in your town, friendly, helpful people. Shows were great, venues were great, vibe lekker, my children could walk in the streets at night without fear of mugging.Will come back. The waterfall on the way to the caves is breathtaking, a must see!!

07 April 2013
Hanspeter Giger
Switzerland

Gemütliche Gasthäuser aller Kategorien. Fast nirgends hohen Sicherheitsmauern mit Stacheldraht sichtbar. Die Strassen sind sauber. Unter den Trottoirs verlaufen oft plattengedeckte Wasserkanäle. Da gibt es eingebrochene Platten welche auf dem nächtliche Nachhauseweg gefährlich sein könnten. Vielleicht fehlt das Geld oder es schläft eine Behörde!

06 April 2013
Adrian Van Wyk
South Africa

The last time I was in Oudsthoorn was 17 years ago. It was well worth coming back again, especially during festival time!

05 April 2013
Donald Crowson
United Kingdom

Oudtshoorn is a good stopover for two nights. See the Caves, ostriches and tigers. There's a good value golf course and good restaurants (Le Colony is recommended).

08 March 2013
hanniki pieterse
South Africa

After 50 years I returned to Oudtshoorn and like when I was a child enjoyed every single moment. Such friendly people (Afrikaans like us), clean streets and wonderful shops. I will be back at the end of 2013.

09 January 2013
Michael Stiebel
South Africa

We found our time in Oudtshoorn very relaxing, offering new things to see and learn about. We targeted the Safari Ostrich Farm, Cango Wildlike Park, & Cango Caves. We managed to do all three, as well as see the Rus & Vrede Falls, near the Cango Caves over two days. We also found awesome restaurants along the Cango Caves road. I suggest one takes time and spend in this area, it is wonderful. Michael & Aldene Stiebel - Lephalale

02 January 2013
Philip Yiannakou
South Africa

Unfortunately we were in deadline to reach our next destination, but we did manage to squeeze in cango caves, and cango ostrich farms... both highly recommended. As we were passing through, we noticed the museum and zip lining. definitely a friendly, safe town worth some quality time.

30 December 2012
Francois Bouwer
South Africa

Great for young and old! Alot to do with kids.

04 December 2012
melanie norden
South Africa

There are many places to visit in Oudtshoorn. We went to the game farm and then ate out at two lovely restaurants. I highly recommend the newly opened Karoopot for its atmosphere - I had the chicken which was lovely but I also saw some interesting potjies and stews on the menu. We also had dinner at Bella Cibo . I had a delicious ostrich pasta and my partner had the ostrich fillet. The rest of the table also thoroughly enjoyed their meals. I have also visited the Cango Caves and ostrich farms in the past. The weather was lovely for early october and we will be back soon!

29 October 2012
Craig Whittaker
South Africa

Oudtshoorn has a range of activities, restaurants that make it a great base to explore the beautiful Klein Karoo. Friendly town with a lot of character and the everyday comforts and convenience you're used to.

23 October 2012
Alan Russell
South Africa

A bit too busy after we fell in love with Graaf Reniet.. Cango Caves are a must see. We sampled 3 of the restaurants in town from upmarket at Jemimah's to a pub like C'est la vie and finally Karoopot. We did not visit an ostrich farm as it did not appeal to us. Like most towns in S.A. there is an oversupply of wide ranging accommodation.

25 September 2012
Donna Hopwood
South Africa

Oudtshoorn is a beautiful Town. In fact the time we got to Knysna my husband was bored as we had so much adventure in Oudtshoorn. We started by coming through the Swartberg Pass, which is an experience on its own. The mountain range is stunning. Once we arrived in Oudtshoorn we went to the Cango Caves, another beutiful experience. The highlights of my trip was finding the waterfall - Rus en Vrede, it was the most beautiful thing my eyes saw by far. Felt like I was in Paradise! The Cango Wildlife Ranch is awesome aswell, many animals to see and friendly tour guides. My overall experience of Oudtshoorn is 5stars***** Packed with adventure and beauty, would recommend it to anyone.

25 September 2012
Andre Visser
South Africa

Baie dankie vir SafariNow.Com wat vir ons dit moontlik gemaak het om by hierdie plekkie buitekant Oudtshoorn uit te kon kom. Dit is op pad na die Kangogrotte en die mooiste Kerk het ons begroet op ons pad na die vakansieplek. Dié was fantasties! Uitsig asemrowend! Teen die berghang! Tot die hond het ons 'gelike' - het op ons stoep op die bank die hele nag gele en slaap! Dit was werklik wonderlik. Wens ons kon langer bly! Volgende keer? Definitief!!

14 September 2012
Simphiwe Madikane
South Africa

Lovely place,my kids enjoyed the ostrich farm visit and Cango Caves

14 September 2012
mari maasdorp
South Africa

2012 was a year for firsts for me!1st time visiting Oudtshoorn,KKNK and the Cango caves.How I have missed, out on the beauty of the surrounding nature,the friendly people and lovely weather!2013 will be a year of 2nd visits to this memorable area for me!

20 August 2012
Geraldine Whittal
South Africa

One has to visit Oudtshoorn in the spring. Upon approaching Oudtshoorn, the fields are decorated with the most vibrant yellows, oranges, reds and purple flowers. It is a sight to behold in this little Karoo town. There are a number of lovely restruants and curio shope in town, but as one leaves to go to the Cango Caves, one can find a number of game ranches, some with part of the big 5 and plenty to do, as well as wine tasting. The people of Oudtshoorn are very warm and friendly and one will feel very welcome there.

19 August 2012
Janine Coetzee
South Africa

Oudtshoorn is a great holiday destination. You would need at least a week to go and see almost everthing Oudtshoorn as to offer. Its a great place for tourist. Lots of great resturant and Curio shops. Caters for both budget holiday makers and the big spenders. Oudtshoorn is a place for both young & young at heart holiday makers. My children enjoyed the Cango wildlife the most.

25 June 2012
Marlene Stemmet
South Africa

Oudtshoorn and its people will be one of the memorable visits to South Africa! Lots of natural attractions with majestic nature experiences, i.e. Swartberg Pass, Meiringspoort, etc. The legacy of an era of the ostrich boom a must to see in many well-preserved and beautiful old restored buildings. Lots of out-door fun and activities for adults and children alike. Experience this beautiful part of our country first-hand and you will be surprised!!!

02 June 2012
Michael Hanslo
South Africa

Oudtshoorn excels as a stop-over town, or as a day trip destination if you're staying along the Garden Route. This small rural town offers exciting and interesting activities for all ages. Highlights include the Cango Wildlife Ranch and Cango Caves - both of which are not to me missed. The many ostrich farms are a unique feature of the area, and visitors can even try their luck riding one at certain farms. Aside from the attractions, the area is beautiful, featuring snow-capped peaks in Winter, ubiquitous hop farms south of the town, and gorgeous rural scenery.

28 May 2012
Elize Van Graan
South Africa

Clean and friendly. We had supper at Headlines. To be recommended.

14 May 2012
Leoni Kruger
South Africa

We had a wonderful time at the 2012 KKNK, wonderful weather and enjoyed the shows. We'll be back again.

09 April 2012
Katharina Kummer
Switzerland

We didn't feel comfortable at Oudtshoorn.

20 March 2012
Elna Davel
South Africa

Love this remote town, something magic about it. Service everywhere we've been to are exceptional. And the people are so friendly and helpful. It is such an amazing experience taking my son (3 years old) to the Cango Wildlife Ranch. We've been there last year October and couldn't wait to visit the Ranch again.

26 February 2012
Gerhard Abrahams
Namibia

The landscaping and Cango Caves are great. The waterfall is also amazing. I will go again without hesitation.

11 January 2012
Philippe Allemann
Reunion

A quiet and peaceful place to appreciate after busy cities. Some good restaurants and a few places of interest as well.

08 January 2012
Joan Clarke
South Africa

There is lots on offer, not only the cave and ostrich farms but also excellent museums. We enjoyed it very much.

27 December 2011
Lynette Erlank
South Africa

Dit is 'n baie skoon dorp met baie vriendelike mense. Besoek gerus al die museums - beste museum in die land! Oudtshoorn is a a very clean town with friendly people. The museums are worth a visit - the best museum in the country.

09 December 2011
Annerie Cronje
South Africa

Definatley make a turn by the Cango Wild Ranch, Cango Caves and Cango Ostrich farm; it is a great experience.

12 October 2011
Holger Philippin
Germany

Oudtshoorn offers a lot of leisure activities for families and for the adventurer. We only spent one night in Oudtshoorn but a person can easily spend their whole vacation in the region.

03 October 2011
Sinovuyo Mdlungu
South Africa

Oudtshoorn is one of the most beautiful places one can visit to relax and just enjoy the beauty of nature.

03 October 2011
Katie Cowan
South Africa

I personally love Oudtshoorn. It is such a friendly place with so many things to do, or if it is your want, an ideal place to just relax and chill. You can go to the Cango Caves, visit an ostrich farm or check out the animals at the Cango Wildlife Ranch. It never gets boring.

02 August 2011
Kyle Hepple
South Africa

Oudtshoorn is the largest town in the Klein Karoo and is home to the world's largest ostrich population. It is a great place for a holiday. Enjoy great food from world-renowned restaurants, or explore the history of one of South Africa's oldest towns.

02 August 2011
Linda Harvey
South Africa

Oudtshoorn is a superb place to recharge. A very hospitable town with a distinct lack of stress. Once the teenagers got used to the idea that there is no movie house, big theatre, etc, they got fully involved in the quad bikes, 4x4 routes, hikes, star gazing, ostrich farms, cave exploring and picnics under the wide open skies. Having travelled there for a sports tournament, we now look forward to returning for some music festivals and other interesting events.

27 June 2011
Derek Taylor
United Kingdom

Try Ostrich at Bronco! Cango Caves a must.

07 May 2011

Travel Guide
Latest Reviews

Oudtshoorn Kook…”  Read more

Marika Greeff - 07 April 2013

Sauberer und sicherer Eindruck…”  Read more

Hanspeter Giger - 06 April 2013

Oasis in the Karoo…”  Read more

Adrian Van Wyk - 05 April 2013

"The meanderers"…”  Read more

Donald Crowson - 08 March 2013

Beautiful Oudtshoorn…”  Read more

hanniki pieterse - 09 January 2013

Oudthoorn, a corner to spend time in…”  Read more

Michael Stiebel - 02 January 2013

Give yourself a few days...…”  Read more

Philip Yiannakou - 30 December 2012

Family fun…”  Read more

Francois Bouwer - 04 December 2012

great food…”  Read more

melanie norden - 29 October 2012

Warm and hospitable…”  Read more

Craig Whittaker - 23 October 2012
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