Oudtshoorn is a town in the Klein Karoo region of the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is also called the Ostrich capital of the world, and you can find multiple ostrich farms here. Some unique ostrich experiences you should try are standing on an ostrich egg or feeding ostriches. Do this while learning more about their history and the ostrich farming history.
Oudtshoorn’s Location
You can find the Greater Oudtshoorn area at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains in the Little Karoo region of the Western Cape Province. The Klein Karoo is a semi-desert area. Long ago, it was the home of the Koi-San people. Evidence of this can be found in the rock paintings in the caves of the area.
History of Oudtshoorn
Originally, Oudtshoorn was part of the District of George. It started in 1847 on the farm Hartebeestrivier. The Dutch Reformed Church established the town as a church farm in 1853.
Oudtshoorn’s name came from Baron Pieter van Rheede, who arrived in South Africa in 1741. He became the Governor of the Cape in 1772 but died in 1773 onboard a ship returning to South Africa.
The town eventually became a separate division from George in 1858.
At the time, the local economy focused on tobacco and ostrich farming. The town also grew fruit and grain.
Oudtshoorn’s Attractions
Here you can find 18 Fun things to do in Oudtshoorn, South Africa.