Oudtshoorn – Ostrich Capital of the World
The town of Oudtshoorn is situated in the Western Province of the beautiful South Africa and is known and loved by many local holidaymakers around the country. The town is the largest town in the Little Karoo region and attracts many tourists annually because of its tremendous activities and beautiful attractions.
Originally the area was occupied by Bushmen and this can be seen by the extreme amount of rock paintings which can be found in the caves surrounding the Swartberg Mountains. The first farmers settled in the area during the 1700’s and the first large permanent structure – the Dutch Reformed Church – was built in 1839 and the town started growing around this church.
The town of Oudtshoorn is especially known for its ostriches and many ostrich farms surround the town. The ostrich craze in the Karoo started with the fascination the town’s people had with the feathers as they were used as a fashion accessory. They were primarily used as decoration for the ladies’ hats during the 1800’s. Today you can learn all about them at the various ostrich farms which are open to the public.
Other attractions include the breath-taking and world famous Cango Caves which attracts tourists from around the world and contains an ever-so-interesting history. Some of the rock formations you’ll witness here are the best in the world. The Cango Wildlife Ranch offers you and your family many exciting things to see and do. Some of these activities include cage diving with humongous crocodiles and touching the fierce cheetah.
The town of Oudtshoorn offers many amazing accommodation facilities which range from easy bed and breakfast lodges to fancy hotels. Nomad Africa Adventure Tours will assist you in organising the perfect family holiday for you and your loved ones.