Oudtshoorn is the largest town in the Little Karoo (Klein Karoo). Historically, its commercial success was based on the European need for the beautiful features of the town's loveliest and leggiest inhabitants - the Ostrich.
However, as use of the bird went out of fashion, the huge, stylish homes built on feathery fortunes fell into disrepair. The town has since recovered and the majestic bird is still in great demand, for its textured skin as well as its low cholesterol, low fat meat. A great way to explore the area is on an escorted scenic trip, with the option of cycling and enjoying traditional cuisine.
There is also some magnificent rock art in the area. The nearby town of Calitzdorp is well known for producing quality port, and the town of De Rust on the other side makes excellent red wine. Oudtshoorn is situated on the R62, about 400 km from Cape Town. The nearest airport is George, situated about 60 km away.
Oudtshoorn is also home to one of the world's greatest wonders, the magnificent Cango Caves. It is situated only 30 km from Oudtshoorn and lies in the Swartberg Mountain range. The Cango Caves boasts some of the biggest stalagmite formations in the world.
Accommodation in Oudtshoorn consists of quaint guesthouses, charming bed & breakfasts and beautiful lodges with splendid views of the area's...
The beautiful C.P. Nel Museum, formerly the high school, has an excellent series of exhibits on feathers, fashion, ostriches and local autho...
The unofficial capital of the Klein Karoo is Oudtshoorn. Once a small town in the middle of nowhere, Oudtshoorn became a booming metropolis ...
The rugged and picturesque Cango Valley, in the lee of the legendary Swartberg Mountains, hides the access to one of Africa’s grandest cav...
The San people who left their marks in the entrance chamber of Oudtshoorn’s Cango Caves were unlikely to have known just how big their hom...