For the ultimate South African countryside escape, complete with some of our countries most alluring attractions and naturally exquisite locations, Oudtshoorn, located in the heart of the Klein Karoo, is just the place to visit.

More than just a naturally splendid town with a peaceful atmosphere and friendly, welcoming locals, Oudtshoorn is also the Ostrich Capital of the world and as such, visitors can expect this bird to form a big part of their experience here. Oudtshoorn is the largest town located in the Klein Karoo of the Western Cape, with a spectacular backdrop of the Swartberg, Langeberg and Outeniqua mountains.

This lovely town also enjoys the most sunshine days in South Africa, with little wind and dry winters. While exploring the wonderful Klein Karoo, guests can also venture into the neighbouring villages of Du Rust, Montagu or Touws Rivier during their stay.

The History of the Ostrich in Oudtshoorn:

It is interesting to learn more about Oudtshoorn’s rich history and to understand how it’s once thriving ostrich feather industry played a massive role in shaping this small suburb, thus earning it the impressive acclaim as the “Ostrich Capital of the World”.

Oudtshoorn’s intricate and vibrant history goes back many centuries to the year 1860, with the sudden boom of the ostrich feather industry. During this lavish era, prime ostrich feathers were considered incredibly valuable and were largely regarded as a must-have high fashion accessory to high-class ladies from all over the world. The rich were willing to pay enormous amounts of money for these feathers, which were light in weight and easy to import to other countries. It was not long till Oudtshoorn became home to many wealthy farmers and industry traders, all basking in the resulting prosperity that the ostrich feather’s had bought to this pleasant village.

At the height of Oudtshoorn’s success and riches, farming communities even went as far as to showcase their excessive wealth by building extravagant “ostrich feather palaces”, beautiful grand structures of stained glass, cast-iron work and palatial turrets – some of these “castles” can still be seen today among the many Cape Dutch style homes, forming part of Oudtshoorn’s unique architectural heritage.

Attractions in Oudtshoorn:

Cango Caves – Famous all around the world, the historical Cango Caves are just a short drive out of Oudtshoorn, where visitors can embark on an amazing adventure of discovery that will be truly unforgettable. This beautiful show cave allows visitors to choose one of two tour types, being the Heritage Tour (1 hour long) as well as the Adventure Tour (1 hour 30 minutes long), and can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Bring your camera along to snap pictures of the fascinating and colourful limestone formations, sculptured by nature throughout millions of years. The Cango Caves are considered one of the natural wonders of the world, definitely a must-see for all who are seeking out something special while on holiday in Oudsthoorn or the Klein Karoo.

Safari Ostrich Show farm – Owned and run by a family of 4^th generation local ostrich farmers, the Safari Ostrich Show Farm has been operating successfully since 1956 and offers visitors amazing first-hand interactions with these giant feathery birds. Learn all about the ways of a modern day working ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn and the life stages of the ostrich through family-friendly educational tours, where kids can also enjoy feeding the ostriches. Various species, such as the Kenyan Red, Zimbabwe Blue and beautiful White Ostrich can all be encountered here. There is also a casual cafe for guests to enjoy a few delicious meals or a refreshing drink, as well as an exciting curio shop selling Ostrich products such as leather purses and diaries, or even ostrich egg decor.

Cango Wildlife Ranch – What better way to meet an amazing variation of African animals (over 90 species!), than to visit the inviting Cango Wildlife Ranch, which is a treat for families and friends from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy thrilling Cheetah encounters, captivating tours of the spacious grounds and even up close cage diving experiences with ancient crocodiles in a gorge. From brightly coloured and exotic birds, an amazing snake park and adorable wallabies to an interactive lemur exhibition and even a number of fish and water species, there will be no shortage of excitement when visiting this ranch, which is open all year around. It is easy to understand why this renowned wildlife ranch is considered one of the top attractions in Oudtshoorn, appealing to young and old, where guests will leave with spectacular life-long memories.

Dining in Oudtshoorn:

The Black Swan – Promising diners “Klein Karoo hospitality at its best”, the wonderful Black Swan a la carte restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Oudtshoorn and is a favourite among tourists and locals, offering a divine menu of mouth-watering cuisines from speciality pizzas to ostrich dishes of carpaccio or a tasty Klein Karoo ostrich fillet – enjoy traditional South African classics and an attractive selection of wines.  With lovely seating available inside and outside, guests can expect a charming ambiance of elegant yet comfortable dining among friends.

Karoopot – With a fantastic traditional menu of sophisticated Karoo styled cuisines and bold, mouth-watering flavours, guests visiting the Karoopot can expect to be thoroughly enchanted. Outside, casual seating overlooks the restaurants pleasant garden area, with a water fixture in the centre of the space. Inside, long tables with wooden benches and dim lighting allow guests to enjoy their meals in style. Karoopot also boasts an impressive wine list that heroes some of the best wines in the Klein Karoo.

Jemima’s Restaurant – This lovely eatery combines classic elegance and quirky charm with the passion for serving delectable and modern dishes, such as a delicious fried camembert and ostrich duo, Klein Karoo caprese or the popular Meringue Tower dessert. Jemima’s Restaurant also displays unique African antique furniture and colourful statement pieces.  The outer courtyard area is perfect for tranquil dining on warmer evenings, while inside the homely yet stylish setting provides guests with a magical ambiance.

Accommodation in Oudtshoorn:

Africamps Klein Karoo:

Experience a truly special getaway by embracing outdoor living with Africamps, in tents that are proudly produced and handcrafted in South Africa. Guests can enjoy the comforts of modern holiday accommodation, while embracing an amazing camping trip. This luxurious tent can accommodate up to 5 guests in its 2 bedrooms, and also offers a private wooden deck, fully equipped kitchen and lovely fireplace. Located on a working farm and overlooking natural landscapes, this spot is perfect for lovers of nature. Also included is WiFi access, air conditioning and private BBQ facilities. For more info on Africamps Klein Karoo in Oudtshoorn, click here. 

De Kombuys Estate:

A wonderful farm-style holiday home that is located on a rustic farm in Oudtshoorn, guests can choose between two vintage self-catering cottages. Both cottages are more than a century old, while a cozy patio offers guests a braai on the patio with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and the Shiraz vineyards. A swimming pool, secure parking and an indoor fireplace offer extra luxuries to these charming cottages, while guests can also enjoy the farms selection of eco-driven activities, abundant bird life and close promixity to many exciting attractions. For more information on De Kombuys Estate in Oudtshoorn, click here. 

Swartberg Private Game Lodge:

The perfect setting for a large family visiting the Klein Karoo’s suburb of Oudtshoorn, this luxury game lodge is able to accommodate up to 12 guests in its 5 bedrooms, surrounded by expansive patios and providing a peaceful retreat that takes inspiration from the regions rich fauna and flora. In summer, the large garden and swimming pool can also be enjoyed, while guests can appreciate the estate’s stylish bedrooms, warm ambiance and spacious living areas. Stay in touch by utilizing the Wi-Fi and DStv connection, cook up something special in the fully-equipped kitchen or entertain by the BBQ area. Guests can also benefit from daily cleaning and laundry services, as well as secure parking. For more info on Swartberg Private Game Lodge, click here.

Karoo Retreat Guest House:

Uncover the beauty of the Oudtshoorn area by staying in this lovely modern guest house, welcoming travellers (and their pets) all year round. High ceilings, contemporary finishes and spacious rooms all add to the appeal of a vacation spent in this homely guest house. Be close to all of the excitement and beauty of the Klein Karoo, from stunning wine estates to exciting outdoor adventures and tourist attractions. Guests can enjoy additional luxuries, such as Wi-Fi and DStv connection, housekeeping and laundry services as well as a delightful braai and pool area.  For more information on Karoo Retreat Guest House in Oudtshoorn, click here. 

Have a look at Holiday Apartments full range of self-catering accommodation in Oudtshoorn by clicking here. From gorgeous lodges and apartments to stylish and traditional homes, visitors to Oudtshoorn can enjoy everything that this fantastic suburb has to offer.