Oudtshoorn - Discovering South Africa

Travelling to Oudtshoorn

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Oudtshoorn, a pretty good destination in South Africa (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Oudtshoorn and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Oudtshoorn, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Africa, here's everything to know about Oudtshoorn for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn is a town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its ostrich farms and is considered the ostrich capital of the world. The town is also situated in the Klein Karoo region, known for its scenic drives, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Cango Caves, a network of limestone caves, or enjoy hiking and bird watching in the nearby Swartberg Mountains. Oudtshoorn also has a vibrant arts and culture scene with museums, galleries, and festivals throughout the year.

What to visit in Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn is a town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is well-known for its ostrich farms and numerous other attractions. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Oudtshoorn: 1. Cango Caves - The Cango Caves are a series of limestone caverns that are millions of years old. They offer visitors an underground adventure of crystal formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. The Caves are located just outside of Oudtshoorn and guided tours are available.
2. Safari Ostrich Farm - This farm gives visitors a chance to learn about ostrich farming in South Africa, get close to the ostriches, and even ride them. They also offer tours of the farm, which includes seeing the breeding process and the incubation rooms.
3. Cango Wildlife Ranch - This ranch is home to a number of exotic and endangered species including tigers, cheetahs, crocodiles, and lemurs. Visitors can take guided tours and see the animals up close.
4. Swartberg Pass - The Swartberg Pass is a mountain pass that connects Oudtshoorn to Prince Albert. It is one of the most scenic drives in South Africa, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
5. Buffelsdrift Game Lodge - This game lodge offers visitors the chance to go on a safari and see animals like elephants, rhinos, and lions in their natural habitat. Visitors can also stay in luxury tents or chalets on the property.
6. Rust-en-Vrede Waterfall - This waterfall is located in the nearby Meiringspoort, a scenic drive that includes several other waterfalls. Rust-en-Vrede is accessible via a short hiking trail that leads to the base of the waterfall.
7. Art galleries - Oudtshoorn has a number of art galleries that showcase local artists and artisans. These galleries include the CP Nel Museum, ArtKaroo Gallery, and The Red Barn.
Overall, Oudtshoorn has plenty of activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, making it a great destination for tourists.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Africa, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Oudtshoorn.

When to go on holiday to Oudtshoorn

The best time to visit Oudtshoorn is during the months of March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring), when the weather is mild and there is less chance of rain. During autumn, you will also be able to witness the beautiful hues of orange and yellow as the leaves of the trees change colors. However, Oudtshoorn can be visited throughout the year as the weather is generally pleasant and sunny. Just be sure to pack warm clothes for the evenings as temperatures can drop during the winter months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Oudtshoorn

There are several ways to get to Oudtshoorn, South Africa. Here are some options: 1. By Car: You can rent a car and drive to Oudtshoorn from major cities like Cape Town or Port Elizabeth. The drive is scenic and takes around 4-5 hours.
2. By Bus: There are daily bus services from Cape Town and Port Elizabeth that run to Oudtshoorn.
3. By Flight: The nearest airport is George Airport, which is around 60km from Oudtshoorn. You can take a domestic flight from major cities in South Africa to George and then take a taxi or rental car to Oudtshoorn.
4. By Train: The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe train runs from George to Knysna and offers scenic views of the Garden Route. From Knysna, you can take a taxi or bus to Oudtshoorn.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Oudtshoorn, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Oudtshoorn

Here are some typical foods of Oudtshoorn in South Africa along with a brief description: 1. Ostrich meat: Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world, so it's not surprising that ostrich meat is a local delicacy. It's a lean meat that's often served as steaks or burgers.
2. Biltong: A traditional South African snack that's similar to beef jerky. Biltong can be made from various meats, but is most commonly beef or game meat.
3. Bobotie: A delicious meat pie that's made with ground beef and spices, topped with a layer of custard. It's often served with rice or bread.
4. Potjiekos: A traditional stew that's cooked over an open fire in a cast-iron pot. It typically includes meat, vegetables, and spices, and is a hearty meal that's perfect for cold winter nights.
5. Malva pudding: A sweet and sticky dessert that's made with apricot jam and served with custard or ice cream. It's a comforting dessert that's perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Africa here.

Is Oudtshoorn an expensive destination for tourists?

Oudtshoorn can be affordable for tourists, but it also has some expensive options. The cost of travel and accommodation in Oudtshoorn depends on your preferences, the time of the year you visit, and the type of activities you plan to do. Accommodations in Oudtshoorn vary from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end luxury resorts, with prices increasing during peak tourist seasons. Food and drink prices in the town are generally reasonable, with many affordable restaurants and cafes. However, some of the area's popular attractions, such as the ostrich farms and wildlife reserves, can be costly.
Overall, with proper planning and budgeting, Oudtshoorn can be enjoyed by tourists of varying budgets.

Where to find accomodation in Oudtshoorn

When planning a trip to Oudtshoorn, it is best to find accommodation in the town or surrounding areas. Specifically, there are some great options within the town center or in the nearby areas of De Rust, Calitzdorp, and Prince Albert. These areas offer easy access to the attractions and activities in and around Oudtshoorn, such as the Cango Caves, ostrich farms, and nature reserves. Additionally, there are a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, ranging from luxury hotels and B&Bs to budget-friendly guesthouses and camping sites.
You can check hotel prices at Oudtshoorn here:
Booking.com

Is Oudtshoorn a safe destination for tourists?

Oudtshoorn, South Africa is considered to be quite safe for tourists, with a low crime rate in general. However, like any other destination, tourists should still exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, safeguarding their belongings, and being aware of their surroundings. It is also advisable to book accommodations in reputable establishments and use transportation services provided by reliable companies.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Africa here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Oudtshoorn.

What type of travelers will enjoy Oudtshoorn the most?

Oudtshoorn, South Africa is a great destination for couples, young people looking for fun and families alike. The city offers a range of activities that cater to different interests and ages, such as outdoor adventures, wildlife experiences, cultural tours, and food and wine experiences. Couples can enjoy romantic activities such as visiting the Cango Caves or going on a hot air balloon ride, while families can have fun visiting ostrich farms or taking part in outdoor activities like hiking. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the city center. In summary, Oudtshoorn can be enjoyed by all types of travelers.

How to get around Oudtshoorn

The most common transportation options to move around Oudtshoorn are by car, taxi, or bicycle rental. There are also a number of tour companies that offer guided tours of popular attractions in the area. Riding the local bus service can be an option, but it may not be the most convenient or fastest means of transport.

What to see around Oudtshoorn

Certainly! Here are a few options for day trips from Oudtshoorn: 1. Swartberg Pass: A beautiful mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a bit rugged, but it's worth it if you're up for the adventure.
2. Cango Caves: A must-see attraction in Oudtshoorn. The caves are massive and intricate, and the guided tours are informative and entertaining.
3. Prince Albert: A charming town that's often referred to as the "gateway to the Karoo". It has a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions to explore.
4. Safari Ostrich Farm: If you're interested in wildlife, this is a great place to visit. You'll learn all about ostrich farming and you'll get to interact with these fascinating creatures up close.
5. Meiringspoort Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall that's surrounded by stunning rock formations. It's a bit off the beaten path, but it's worth it if you're looking for a peaceful and scenic spot.
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