Oudtshoorn is a town in the Klein Karoo, a semi-arid region of South Africa, and it is known as the ostrich capital of the world. Its character comes from the birds and from the wealth that ostrich farming once brought to the area.
Ostrich farms and feather palaces
Visitors can take tours of ostrich farms, where the birds are kept and their feathers and eggs are produced. The town's ostrich boom is still visible in its architecture. Feather palace mansions, built in the early 1900s, stand as reminders of the period when ostrich feathers were highly prized, and they make an interesting contrast with the dry, open landscape around the town.
A gateway to the Cango Caves
Oudtshoorn also serves as the gateway to the Cango Caves, which hold ancient limestone formations and a series of underground chambers. For many travellers, the caves are the main reason to stop here, and the town makes a practical base for visiting them.
A visit to Oudtshoorn suits those interested in farming history, unusual architecture and cave exploration. Its setting in the Klein Karoo, with its dry hills and wide skies, gives the stay a distinct feel. Travellers who enjoy a slower pace and a mix of natural and historical sights will find it a rewarding place to spend a few days.