Oudtshoorn Introduction
Oudtshoorn is the ostrich capital of the world. This small town in Little Karoo is home to the world's largest ostrich population, maintained by a number of ostrich-breeding farms in the area. But there is more to Oudtshoorn than ostriches. The town stands in one of South Africa's wine regions and is a popular stop on wine tours. Oudtshoorn is also located at the edge of the
Garden Route. This means it's surrounded by gorgeous scenery and nature reserves.
Hotels in Oudtshoorn
With the exception of a few boutique hotels and guesthouses, most lodging options in Oudtshoorn provide luxury amenities at affordable rates. Even the dorms in some of the city's backpacker hostels appear cosy and well-appointed. But many of these properties offer more than just elegantly decorated guestrooms. At the very least, they feature facilities such as outdoor pools, barbecue grills, landscaped gardens, designated picnic areas and terraces for enjoying the scenic views. Some take it to a higher level by providing spa services or in-room childcare, or sports facilities like tennis courts.
Where to stay
Most of the hotels in Oudtshoorn are located along Baron Van Reede Street. This road serves as one of the main thoroughfares in Oudtshoorn. Its central location means you can easily move about when you stay in a hotel here. It also gives you access to many of the shops and commercial establishments in the city. Some of the hotels along Baron Van Reede Street are clustered on its northernmost end. That area gives ready access to many of Oudtshoorn's wildlife attractions. There are also a number of accommodation picks along Langenhoven Road. Staying in one of these will put you close to many of Oudtshoorn's ostrich farms.
Things to see
Cango Wildlife Ranch is located on the northern outskirts of Oudtshoorn. The ranch is home to around 90 species of animals, but its main focus is conserving cheetahs. The ranch has a population of rescued cheetahs, some of which you can interact with. Just outside of Oudtshoorn are the
Cango Caves. This cave system has some of the largest stalagmite formations in the world. To get to the Cango Caves from Oudtshoorn, you'll have to drive through Schoemans Poort. The journey itself is rewarding, as you get to take in the lovely views of the cliffs around you. A portion of the pass where it twists and crosses with Grobbelaars River can test your driving mettle. If you're up for a longer drive, you can visit Gamkaberg Nature Reserve. This isolated reserve is 33 kilometres south of Oudtshoorn and serves as home to plants that grow in arid conditions and to endangered mountain zebra.
How to get to Oudtshoorn
One way you can get to Oudtshoorn is to drive along the R62 road. The R62 is one of the most scenic highways in South Africa, and driving here makes for a pleasant journey. If you're coming from George, you can take the Outeniqua mountain pass. This route is just as breathtaking as the R62. You do need to be extra cautious while driving on this mountain pass. The turns can be dangerous to the unwary. If you don't feel like driving, you can ride a bus from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Mossel Bay to Oudtshoorn.
