The Klein Karoo (Little Karoo) is a semi-desert area on the edge of the Garden route, set between the Outeniqua and Swartberg mountain ranges. Here in this oasis-like setting you will find Oudtshoorn, the tourist capital of the Klein Karoo and the South African Ostrich capital.
Oudtshoorn was founded in 1847 and is a lovely picturesque town with many historical buildings that were built in the early days that are known as Ostrich palaces built from sandstone and many have imposing gables. The CP Nel Museum is a notable building that was left in his will by a local man in 1953 who had collected items of historic interest and is well worth a visit while touring Oudtshoorn.
There are many tourist attractions to be found in Oudtshoorn but the reason for most visitors to the area including many visitors from overseas is, without doubt, the Cango Caves which are about 30km outside of Oudtshoorn and are regarded as part of the Garden Route. The Caves themselves are set in Precambrian Limestone and consist of a succession of caverns opening into soaring halls of towering stalagmite formations said to be some of the largest in the world. Visitors are able to view the caves with a guide.
Photo: Rodger Bosch
Ostrich farming started in South Africa in the second half of the 19th century and the growth of the industry grew because of the high demand for Ostrich feathers by the fashion conscious of Europe. Today there are a number of Ostrich farms conducting tours for visitors in the Oudtshoorn area.
Visit the crocodile farm and the Cheetah conservation area. There is also a wine route and a fine golf course. Dine in the fine restaurants and sample the excellent wines of the area and view the many fine old buildings in the town of Oudtshoorn.
Accommodation is plentiful with excellent hotels, B&B’s, Guest houses and self catering facilities.
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#1 by Parag on March 29, 2010 - 8:29 am
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The main chambers in the Cango Caves, called Cango 1, contain countless dripstone formations, and Van Zyl’s hall, named after its discoverer is simply breathtaking it is so huge.
#2 by Accommodation on March 31, 2010 - 2:16 pm
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I love Oudtshoorn, it is a stunning area. Has so much amazing attractions to choose from. I have been to the Cango Caves before and it was fantastic! I went on the adventure tour I thought I was going to get stuck few times, but at the end of the day was proud of myself for doing it. Thanks for sharing.