A Journey Through History and Nature in the Klein Karoo
Nestled in the heart of the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn is a town steeped in historical uniqueness and surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the Swartberg Mountains. Known as the “Ostrich Capital of the World,” Oudtshoorn’s rich past is tied to the ostrich feather booms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which brought prosperity and left behind a legacy of grand architecture and cultural heritage. The Klein Karoo itself, a semi-arid valley framed by rugged mountain ranges, offers a dramatic landscape that has captivated travellers for centuries. From the ancient geological wonders of the Swartberg to the indigenous Khoi San history whispered through the wind, this region blends nature and history into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn to the towering Swartberg Pass or the serene beauty of the Klein Karoo’s open skies, Oudtshoorn is a treasure trove of activities waiting to be explored.
Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Oudtshoorn, brought to you with insights from True South Travel, your local Swartberg Mountain specialists.
Swartberg Pass Guided Tours with True South Travel
No visit to Oudtshoorn is complete without experiencing the iconic Swartberg Pass, a marvel of engineering and nature that winds through the majestic Swartberg Mountains. True South Travel, a specialist tour operator based in Oudtshoorn with over 20 years of expertise, offers both full-day and half-day guided tours that bring this historic route to life.
The Swartberg Pass, built in the 1880s by the legendary Thomas Bain, showcases dry-stone walls and hairpin bends that have stood the test of time, offering panoramic views of the Klein Karoo below. On a full-day tour with True South Travel, you’ll delve into the pass’s history, explore hidden trails, and discover the diverse flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage-nominated region.
The half-day option provides a condensed yet equally immersive experience, perfect for those short on time but eager to connect with the Swartberg’s rugged beauty. With True South Travel, your journey through the Swartberg Pass becomes a storytelling adventure through Oudtshoorn’s natural and historical soul.
Stargazing Under the Klein Karoo Skies with True South Travel
The Klein Karoo is renowned for its vast, unpolluted skies, where the absence of city lights reveals a celestial spectacle unlike any other. Oudtshoorn’s location in this semi-arid valley makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, with crisp, clear nights that unveil a blanket of stars stretching across the horizon.
True South Travel elevates this experience with their unique High 5 Stargazing sessions, a signature offering that combines expert guidance with the magic of the Swartberg Mountains. During these open-air sessions, you’ll lie back under the starlit skies of the Klein Karoo, learning about constellations, planets, and the historical significance of celestial navigation in this region. With over two decades of Swartberg expertise, True South Travel’s guides weave tales of the night sky that connect the natural wonder above with the rugged landscape below, making this a must-do activity for anyone visiting Oudtshoorn.
Exploring Oudtshoorn’s Iconic Attractions
Oudtshoorn’s historical and natural allure shines through its diverse attractions, each offering a unique glimpse into the Klein Karoo’s past and present. The Cango Caves, just 29km from town, are a geological masterpiece formed over 20 million years, with vast limestone chambers adorned with dripping stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours here range from easy heritage walks to thrilling adventure crawls, revealing a subterranean world that has fascinated visitors since its discovery in 1780.
A visit to an ostrich farm, such as Safari or Cango Ostrich Show Farm, dives into Oudtshoorn’s feather boom heritage, where you can interact with these quirky birds, ride them, or even stand on their eggs—an experience rooted in the town’s economic history.
The CP Nel Museum, housed in a former boys’ school, chronicles this ostrich legacy alongside Victorian-era artifacts and a still-active synagogue, offering a cultural deep dive into Oudtshoorn’s past.
For a taste of the Klein Karoo’s modern bounty, Karusa Wine Estate beckons with its Mediterranean-style wines and craft beers, a family-run gem that pairs stunning Swartberg views with delightful tastings.
Finally, the Cango Wildlife Ranch brings conservation to the forefront, housing over 90 species—including cheetahs and Bengal tigers—with interactive encounters that highlight the region’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Together, these activities showcase Oudtshoorn’s blend of history, nature, and adventure, all framed by the Swartberg’s timeless presence.
From the rugged heights of the Swartberg Pass to the starlit expanses of the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn offers a wealth of experiences that celebrate its unique place in South Africa’s story. With True South Travel as your guide, you’ll uncover the historical and natural wonders that make this town a standout destination. Whether you’re tracing the past or gazing at the stars, Oudtshoorn promises memories as enduring as the Swartberg Mountains themselves.