Oudtshoorn

The area in which Oudtshoorn is situated was originally inhabited by the Bushmen.

The first European explorers were guided there by a Griqua via an ancient elephant trail in January 1689. However, it was only a a hundred years later that the first farmers started settling in the region.

The first large permanent structure of the Klein Karoo, was first erected in 1839 near the banks of the Grobbelaars River. The village (and later town) of Oudtshoorn gradually grew around a church of the Dutch Reformed denomination and was named after Baron Pieter van Rheede van Oudtshoorn.

The rapid rise of the ostrich industry, with its first boom in 1875 made Outdshoorn a very wealthy town. After the Anglo- Boer War there was a second and even bigger boom. Many 'Feather palaces', magnificent Victorian Sandstone homesteads, were built during this time, with a unique style and these can still be seen and visited today.

Today there are 400 ostrich farms surrounding the town, 3 have become " show farms" where you can hear all about the industry and even ride the birds.

Nearby are the The Cango Caves: One of the worlds great natural wonders, sculptured by nature through the ages. Mysterious and breathtaking limestone formations in a wide variety of natural colours, a subterranean wonderland. Or visit the Cango Wildlife Ranch. Gaze with awe at the slithering reptiles species from all over the world. Imagine... more than 400 crocodiles and alligators still in their prehistoric form.

The Cango Ranch has become a highly successful breeding station . . . -one of the only two in the southern hemisphere. Here they successfully breed various endangered species like cheetah and white tigers among others. Cheetahland was developed in 1988 and became the home of a variety of cats such as lion and jaguar, helping us with our goal to promote public awareness of endangered species. The Cango Wildlife Ranch is uniquely designed to comfortably host more than 40 species of animals, giving visitors the opportunity to view and, in some cases, even interact with a variety of endangered animals.

Numerous rivers, streams and falls have their origins in the surrounding Swartberg, Outeniqua, Kamanassie mountain ranges. The eco-tourist, and those thriving on the outdoor life, alike, will be faced with a large selection of challenging opportunities. Hiking and biking trails are in abundance. Make your choice from lush subtropical to semi-arid. You will leave fulfilled!

Oudtshoorn is the hub of the region for the sport enthusiast, offering a challenging modern 18 hole golf course with full amenities and squash courts. Also, bowls, athletics, tennis, cricket, rugby, Olympic standard swimming pools, motorsport, miniature aircraft and many more.

Local communities will provide you with cultural insights, such as music, dance, and crafts. South Africa is a young, progressive, dynamic nation that tolerates many different cultural beliefs.

• Ma Bettie's Xhosa Cultural Experience
• Wilgewandel Pioneers Experience

CP Nel Museum, Oudtshoorn
A synagogue and other Jewish attractions are inside this quaint museum located across from the Tourist Information Bureau.

Arbeidsgenot, Oudtshoorn
From the turn of century to 1950 this charming museum was the home of the composer of South Africa’s first national anthem.