Oudtshoorn

Known as the ostrich capital of the world, this inland town offers ostrich farm tours, the impressive Cango Caves system, and the scenic Swartberg Pass. It combines agricultural heritage with dramatic mountain landscapes.

Things to do

• Cango Caves — Explore South Africa's largest stalactite and stalagmite cave system with guided underground tours through cathedral-like chambers.
• Ostrich Farm Tour — Visit working ostrich farms to learn about farming practices, see these massive birds up close, and often enjoy ostrich meat tastings.
• Swartberg Pass — Drive or hike this dramatic mountain pass with hairpin turns and panoramic views across the Little Karoo landscape.
• CP Nel Museum — Tour this restored Victorian mansion displaying local history, ostrich industry artifacts, and traditional Karoo furnishings.
• Highgate Ostrich Farm — One of the region's oldest farms offering interactive experiences including feeding ostriches and learning about the leather and feather industries.
• Calitzdorp Wine Route — Visit nearby wine estates in this adjacent village producing quality port wines and other varietals from Karoo vineyards.

Food to try

• Ostrich Steak — A local specialty that is leaner and more tender than beef, often grilled and served at farm restaurants throughout the region.
• Ostrich Carpaccio — Thinly sliced raw ostrich meat dressed with olive oil and lemon, showcasing the meat's delicate flavor in Oudtshoorn's fine dining establishments.
• Karoo Lamb — Meat from sheep grazing on the semi-arid Karoo plains, known for distinctive flavor and often prepared as slow-roasted shoulder or chops.
• Melktert (Milk Tart) — A traditional Cape Dutch dessert with custard filling and cinnamon topping, commonly found in local bakeries and farm restaurants.
• Biltong and Droëwors — Dried cured meat snacks sold at local shops and markets, reflecting the region's pastoral farming heritage and Afrikaner food traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet in Afrikaans — The local community predominantly speaks Afrikaans; greeting with 'Goeie môre' (good morning) or 'Hallo' shows respect and appreciation for local culture.
• Visit during Klein Karoo Kunstefees — This September arts festival celebrates Karoo culture with music, theater, and art, offering the best time to experience local traditions and hospitality.
• Respect farm protocols — When visiting ostrich farms, follow safety guidelines carefully as these large birds can be unpredictable and sometimes aggressive if provoked.
• Embrace slow-paced travel — Oudtshoorn operates at a relaxed Karoo pace; plan leisurely days with ample time for cave exploration and scenic drives rather than rushing between attractions.

Nearby

• Mossel Bay (Western Cape) — 86 km
• Still Bay (Western Cape) — 93 km
• Knysna (Western Cape) — 94 km
• Wilderness (Western Cape) — 95 km