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Ostriches Garden Route South Africa
Breathtaking landscapes

Flora & Fauna

Unique wildlife experience

Dining & wine tasting experiences

A year-round climate

Why visit Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo?

Bounded either side by imposing mountains, the fertile valleys and semi-arid landscapes of the Klein Karoo make for some of the most dramatic scenic driving in South Africa. Route 62, which links Cape Town with the Garden Route, runs through farming towns and vineyards, with plenty of stunning photo stops along the way. The main town of Oudtshoorn, famous for its Ostrich associations, is an ideal base to explore from before heading down to the coast.

Head underground into ancient limestone caves, visit Ostrich farms and meerkats at sunrise. Or head to a private reserve for a safari experience that’s under four hours’ drive from Cape Town.

 

Discover Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo

Ostrich Oudtshoorn SAT

Ostrich

Cango Caves

Cango Caves

2 Meerkat looking at dragonfly

Meerkat Encounters

Wine barrels in cellar SS

Wineries

Sanbona game drive with rhino

Game Drive At Sanbona

Highlights of Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo
 

  • The sleepy little town of Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world. Much of the town’s quirky architecture dates from Victorian times when the trade in ostrich feathers was at its peak. A visit to a working ostrich farm provides interesting insights into the town’s past and present.
  • When in Oudtshoorn, rise early and join a trip to observe a colony of meerkats as they emerge from their burrows and greet the day.
  • The Cango Caves, just north of Oudtshoorn, are a fascinating collection of halls and passageways carved out of limestone millions of years ago. They extend for over two kilometres underground and are one of the most famous natural attractions in South Africa.
  • The Klein Karoo is South Africa’s easternmost wine producing region, with a wine route that stretches from Montagu to Outeniqua. Stop and visit a wine farm en route – Calitzdorp is known as the port wine capital of South Africa.
  • Montagu is a charming town with Cape Dutch architecture and mineral-rich hot springs.
  • The Swartberg Pass between Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert is one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring drives in South Africa. The pass is a UNESCO World Heritage Site but the hair-pin bends are not for the faint-hearted! A circular loop will bring you back to Oudtshoorn.
  • Just outside Montagu, you can enjoy an authentic safari experience surrounded by panoramic landscapes and see conservation efforts first-hand at malaria-free Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.
Meerkat close up Portrait SS

Places to stay in Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo

Hiking mountains Klein Karoo SAT
Trust stars

"The best trip we have ever had and we have had some wonderful holidays. Africa is a very special place - we will definitely be returning to South Africa."

Mr S via The Travel Shop

Trust stars

"African Pride throughout have been professional and patient with the group's changing needs. I couldn’t recommend African Pride highly enough. It was a holiday that we all now hold as one of the best we have ever had!! Thank you."

Mr B

Trust stars

"We had an amazing honeymoon, thank you for making it such a memorable time for us. Who wouldn’t want to sit on their own private balcony watching pods of whales not to mention the safari - absolutely magical!"

Honeymooners K & T via Holidaze

Trust stars

"We had an amazing holiday thanks! It was super from start to finish. African Pride did us proud. Our £££ took us much further than would have been the case in Europe - meals out were much cheaper, as was drinking. We were delighted. The Harley Davidson coastal tours and Franschhoek ebike tours were excellent, and we would definitely recommend. It was a really lovely holiday making memories that we will treasure always!!"

LA via Bakewell Travel

Trust stars

"We had an amazing time in South Africa, especially at Shamwari - what an incredible place it is. Thanks for your help in organising this holiday that we will always remember."

Family G via Swords Travel

Explore Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo

Journeys through the Klein Karoo and Oudtshoorn are best enjoyed on a self-drive basis so you can spend time to enjoy the spectacular views and take in the highlights along the way. Some small group tours or private guides also include the area, making it easily accessible for all. The team at African Pride can discuss all these options and advise on the best way for you.

Montagu Tunnel self drive SS

Self-Drive Touring

A well-known road trip through the Klein Karoo is called Route 62, travelling through fruit farms before climbing up winding mountain roads with stunning scenery along the way. To make the most of the historic town of Oudtshoorn a car makes the main attractions more accessible, before travelling onto the Garden Route via either the Robinson or Outeniqua Passes where mountain passes give way to expansive coastal views beneath you.

Bikes on terrace SS

Family Fun

There are lots of activities in the area suitable for families with children of all ages. Aside of the usual Cango Caves and Ostrich farms you can see meerkats, visit wildlife ranches, organise mountain biking, horse riding, star gazing trips or guided nature walks with a twist. The options are many and varied so contact us to discuss your preferences and we will advise options to help ensure your holiday is one to remember.

Family viewpoint Klein Karoo SAT

Guided Touring

A small group tour is a popular way to include this area which will include pre organised visits to the main areas of interest along with a drive via one of the mountain passes surrounding the area. Day tours for those on a private tour or on a self-drive basis can also include private tours of the caves, guided hikes with spectacular views through the Swartberg Mountains or a dawn visit to a meerkat colony to see these captivating animals start their day.

Be inspired...

Grootbos destination reserve

From £6,219

13 Nights

Floral Kingdom, Garden Route & Safari

This self-drive holiday captures the best of South Africa's unique flora, fauna and wildlife.

Discover
Kariega Lion Card

From £3,599

16 Nights

Classic South Africa

Popular with first time visitors this tailormade self-drive itinerary combines some of South Africa’s top attractions.

Discover
Robberg Nature Reserve near Plettenberg Bay Garden Route

From £POA

5 Nights

Garden Route Splendour

This small group tour between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth is ideal for those not wishing to drive the Garden Route.

Discover

When to travel to Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo

The semi-arid nature of the Klein Karoo mean warm summers, mild winters and minimal rainfall, making for a truly year round destination. Travelling in Spring and Autumn avoids the hottest days and coldest nights, with the spring flowers blooming in August and September.

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Seasonal Events

Klein Karoo

The Klein Karoo is a fertile valley bounded on the north by the Swartberg, and on the south by the Langeberg and Outeniqua mountains. It is a popular stopping off point on a self-drive journey on the way to the Garden Route.

Other areas to include in a holiday

Why Travel with African Pride

Personalised itineraries

Award-winning service & advice

Quality & safety checked

Fully financially protected

24/7 Helpline whilst on holiday

Be inspired by the African Pride Brochure

Explore some of the best experiences that Africa and the Indian Ocean has to offer in the African Pride brochure.

View the Brochure
AP Brochure Colection with Shadow

How to plan a holiday

Your choice of holiday and safari to Africa & the Indian Ocean will be unique to you. 


Using our extensive knowledge, experience and passion for Africa built up over many years, we are perfectly placed to tailor your personalised itinerary.

 

Choose your preferred destinations or experiences to include in a holiday

Talk to your travel adviser or us about your holiday requirements

We use our expertise to design an ideal holiday based on your preferences

We use the latest deals and offers for the best price available at the time

Special occasion? We can suggest little extras and hidden gems

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