Ostrich farms were set up in Oudtshoorn around 1860 to supply in the demand of ostrich feathers for the fashion markets. Around 1914 fashion changed and the industry took a big hit. There are, however still many ostrich farms around and ostrich meat has become a delicatessen. Once a cheaper red meat option it has now become an expensive treat for meat lovers.

WHAT TO DO IN OUDTSHOORN

The Karoo, where Oudtshoorn is situated is inland from the Garden Route and has a drier climate. Indigenous flowers, trees and the famous Cango Caves create a visual feast of a different kind.

A tour on a working ostrich farm is an unique experience. You get a chance to stand on an ostrich egg or even ride an ostrich. Cango ostrich farm is on the way to the Cango Caves. The guided tour is less than an hour and a perfect stop before going to the Caves.

The Cango Caves allow you to choose between the standard and adventure guided tour. The standard tour goes to the bigger halls where you can be awed by the incredible limestone formations in different colours, while the adventure tour takes you through all the narrow chimneys and areas that requires climbing. The adventure tour is definitely not for the claustrophobic as some of the areas are very narrow and you literally have to crawl on your stomach. No matter which tour you take you will be stunned by this underground fairyland.

Also en route to the Caves is the Cango Wildlife Ranch for a dive with the Nile crocodiles, a stroll with a cheetah and a cuddle with a tiger cub. Cango is first and foremost for conservation. They encouraged contact with the animals as an awareness feature and people can join their Conservation Foundation for contributions to the endangered species program.

Children enjoy the Angora farm where they can hold and play with the fluffy Angora bunnies. Lovely mohair jerseys and scarves are for sale at the farm shop.

Oudtshoorn is an easy day trip from George or Knysna across the majestically Outenikwa pass.

WHERE TO STAY IN OUDTSHOORN

Backpacker’s Paradise, in the main street going to the Caves, has a variety of room types from double en suite to dormitory and camping facilities. Perfectly located ,you are within walking distance from the shops, restaurants and cinemas. You can also become part of their volunteer program with which they are aiming to uplift the poor community and specifically children that were left homeless.

The three star Riempie Estate Protea Hotel is situated on the Riempie Estate and offers chalets and rondavel accommodation. It has a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere as what is normally expected from hotel accommodation.

The Chandelier Lodge is on an ostrich farm and offers luxury en suite tent accommodation for two people. Small children are allowed to share with parents. The tents are built on a wooden platform with a deck from where you can watch the different wild life creatures. Bird song will be your soothing alarm in the mornings.

WHERE TO EAT IN OUDTSHOORN

To try ostrich cuisine Headlines is the place to go. They specialize in anything and everything that can be made with ostrich meat. Ostrich breakfast, soup and omelets are but a few of the possibilities.

De Oude Meul has a stylish old world class feel and serves a variety of meat dishes and some fish. The setting is tranquil and relaxed inside a beautiful garden.

Meet the ostriches of Oudtshoorn and revisit the 19th century wealth this area inspired.