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Oudtshoorn & Klein Karoo
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
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.
Places to stay in Oudtshoorn & the Klein Karoo
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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.
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