Oudtshoorn South Africa Travel Information

Oudtshoorn South Africa

Considering a visit to Oudtshoorn? You should – it is most certainly worth a visit. It is a truly unique town to visit, and is unlike every other town in South Africa. It is an interesting visit that will offer something for the entire family to enjoy. It gets pretty hot in Oudtshoorn, so make sure you are adequately prepared with the correct clothing. Visiting Oudtshoorn is a quite unique experience that has a number of fascinating things to see and do.

Also we recommend you check out the 10 things you simply must do when visiting South Africa.

Where Oudtshoorn is

The quaint town of Oudtshoorn is situated in the Klein Karoo, between the Swartberg Mountains and the Outeniqua Mountain Range on the Garden Route in South Africa. It is a place mainly known for its Ostrich farms, but it is also home to a wide variety of other farming activities – fruit and tobacco in particular are widely farmed in and around Oudtshoorn. It is also a great stopping point for people travelling between Cape Town & Port Elizabeth as it is approximately halfway between these two cities. It is one of the 7 municipal areas in the area. Getting to Oudtshoorn can be a bit trickly as there is no airport in the town, the nearest airport is in George. Additionally there are no trains that visit the town. However it is easily accessible by road, and is serviced by South Africa’s main bus companies too.

History of Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn was part of a farm owned by a farmer by the name of Cornelius Rademeyer. The farm’s name was Hartbees River. And the farmers asked Cornelius.. to give them a piece of land to build a Church. So the community grew, and that stage Oudtshoorn was known as Church Square. The farmers were very poor, there wasn't a lot of money in circulation, later the name "Veldskoen" (leather shoe) Town... became the name and people didn't like it at all. In 1847 the Magistrate from George gave Oudtshoorn its name. It was named after his wife’s father, Baron van Oudtshoorn van Reede.

Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farms

Oudsthoorn is known primarily for its ostrich farms. There are four products that we get from the ostriches. Firstly there is the ostrich meat which is a healthier alternative to eating red meat – it is much lower in cholesterol & fat, and also lower in calories. It is also widely used in biltong – a true South African delicacy. Ostrich leather is highly valued as a result of its unique pattern – it has a very unique set of bumps. The process involved in the procution of ostrich leather is a specialised process. For this reason, Ostrich leather is considered a luxury item. Ostrich feathers are also unique when compared to the feathers of other birds. They are very loose, and have a stylish look to them. They are also widely used in feather-dusters. Lastly there are the ostrich eggs – these eggs are much larger than chicken eggs. They are widely used for decorative purposes as well as for human consumption. The ostrich farms are something truly remarkable. There are plenty that are hidden away, you can't see them from the street. But if you do some research, or find out a little there are unbelievable examples of these massive ostrich farms that were around 1900. Most were built around 1900 when the big boom in ostrich feathers took place. Each farmer basically tried to outdo the other. And you'll see many of these ostrich farms have a small tower. The towers mean nothing. There's no purpose - there are no steps up them... but, if you had a small tower on your house, it was a sign that you were extremely wealthy.

The Meerkat Magic Project

Another recommended stop when in Oudtshoorn is to visit the Meerkat Magic Project. This conservation project was setup by Grant McIlrath in 1993 to study meerkats in their natural environment. The project aims to garner support for meerkat conservation, and it is truly worth a visit. These incredible little creatures are extremely interesting, and is a must for wildlife lovers. Accommodation is available for those wishing to stay over, and get an early morning start viewing the meerkats.

Accommodation in Oudtshoorn

There are a veritable ton of accommodation options in Oudtshoorn to suit all tastes & budgets. From simple camping or hostel budget options to luxury, indulgent accommodation – you will find your ideal place to stay. There are some really quirky and unique guesthouses that are found all over the town, so if you’re looking for something really original, check out the various Oudtshoorn Accommodation websites. Some of the more popular guesthouses in Oudtshoorn are: - The De Akker Guesthouse - Pictures Guesthouse - Mooiplaas Guesthouse - Oakdene Guesthouse

Luxury Safari Honeymoons

Luxury Safari honeymoons are a fantastic option! A honeymoon should be a trip of a lifetime, after all, it is meant to be the most romantic holiday you’ll ever take, something you’ll talk about for years to come.

There’s no better way to celebrate your love than with a luxury safari honeymoon in Africa. The African wilderness is filled with romance and extravagance. While waking up at first light might not be your idea of the ideal honeymoon, in Africa the early alarm call of nature is part of the experience. As you drive out into the bush watching the sunrise, you’ll be so glad you got up this early as the thrill of searching the uninhabited bush for the Big Five is something you can’t describe.

The ultimate luxury African safari honeymoon can always be complemented with a few days on the continent’s most alluring beach destinations. Exclusive private islands like Seychelles, Zanzibar, and Mauritius are the perfect way to get the best of both worlds when visiting Africa on a honeymoon.

So, when it comes to luxury safari honeymoons in Africa, we’ve got you covered. From the adrenaline-pumping experience of the Great Migration in Kenya, romantic hot air balloon rides over the Okavango Delta in Botswana, or simply sipping G&T’s under the African night sky, we’ve rounded up our choice of the top luxury safari honeymoons in Africa.

Also we recommend you check out the 10 things you simply must do when visiting South Africa.

Kenya - A true luxury honeymoon

Kenya offers one of the most luxurious ways to experience a luxury safari honeymoon. At the end of the rainy season, typically between May or June every year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest make their way northwest together with huge herds of zebra and antelope. Listed as one of the seven wonders of the world, this world-famous Great Migration is a spectacle beyond measure and one of the top game viewing destinations in the world. Where to stay Pair this adventure with superb luxury, extravagance, and opulence in Kenya's most sought-after luxury lodge, Angama Mara and you'll be in for the most luxurious honeymoon experience of your life. Set high in a remote valley, overlooking the most wildlife abundant plains, Angama Mara overs spectacular views, expert safari guides, and unmistakably superb 5-star service. If you're on the hunt for an "Out of Africa" experience, this is the perfect honeymoon destination for you. The lodge is divided into two camps of just 15 chalets each, a private air-strip, and access to the Masa Mara National Reserve with personalized game drives and a warm Kenyan welcome. You'll also get the opportunity to rise early and take an awe-inspiring hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara National Park. Not much can top this in terms of romance!

romantic honeymoon african safari dinner

Tanzania as a honeymoon option

Tanzania offers a range of luxury bush camps and stylish lodges, perfect for a honeymoon adventure. You'll have sundowners in the bush while watching a beautiful African sunset marveling as the colours of red, orange, and gold take over the skies. Then head back to camp for candle-lit dinners and campfire stories from your ranger. A Tanzanian luxury safari honeymoon is all about adventure and connecting with the African wilderness without compromising on luxury. It is one of the most romantic holidays you could embark on. Where to stay & Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge Named as the game lodge on top of the world, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is beyond exquisite. From the natural beauty of the landscape spread out at its feet to the incredible architecture, it is pure heaven for any honeymoon. The location of the lodge is truly breathtaking. The lodge is divided into 3 camps with banana leaf ceilings and thatched roofs which provide a secluded, intimated, and exclusive honeymoon experience. Each camp has private butlers who cater to your every need. The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is synonymous with romance. Personal butlers are available to cater to each guests' personal needs. From drawing bubble baths and bringing tea in bed to creating a romantic evening your partner will never forget, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is the perfect luxury safari honeymoon lodge.

Botswana Luxury safari honeymoons

When it comes to planning a luxury safari honeymoon there is not much that can beat the iconic Okavango Delta. Botswana's northern region is dominated by the UNESCO World Heritage Okavango Delta, one of the most exclusive safari destinations in Africa. This vast inland river delta is occupied by high grasses, floodplains, and a multitude of wildlife from elephants, crocodiles, hippos, lions, leopards. The Okavango Delta is the ideal luxury safari honeymoon destination. From private sundowner drinks and star-lit dinners along the delta to thrilling game drives where you'll get to see some of the biggest herds of elephants, Botswana truly is a safari paradise. Where to stay Abu Camp Set in a pristine riverine forest blending seamlessly with the trees, Abu camp offers superb Okavango Delta wildlife viewing together with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of elephant conservation. There are six en-suite tents each with its own distinctive furnishings and fittings. Each suite features an indoor and outdoor shower and plunge pool sunk into an elevated deck. The lodge overlooks a large lagoon often frequented by elephants. Truly an out-of-this-world safari experience.

Luxury Safaris for couples in Zambia

This somewhat less popular safari destination is the hidden gems of luxury safari honeymoons and gives guests a fantastic isolated wildlife experience. Take a walk on the wild side with fantastic sightings of elephants, walking safaris in a world-renowned National Park, and get to experience some of the best stargazing in the world. The best time to visit Zambia and Malawi is from July to October. Start your luxury safari honeymoon in South Luangwa, Zambia's best-known national park. Dotted with lush green grass and a multitude of rivers, walking safaris are some of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Zambia. Where to stay Mfuwe Lodge Treat yourself to a stay at the award-winning Mfuwe Lodge. Situated inside the park beneath a canopy of ebony and mahogany, the 18 chalets are arranged on the banks of two lagoons. An endless array of wildlife will have you in awe as you relax on the open deck or cool off in the private pool. This region is famous for its prolific game viewing. Resident buffalo, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles are always found at the Mfuwe lagoon.

South AFRICA luxury safari honeymoons

Most first-time safari-goers often flock to the world-famous Kruger National Park, one of Africas largest game reserves famous for its high density of wildlife. The Kruger almost guarantees a glimpse of at least one, if not more of the Big 5 and is perfect for a luxury safari honeymoon. The Kruger National Park is riddled with honeymoon-worth lodges where you're sure to get the very best in luxury and romance. Early morning and afternoon game drives will allow you to spot leopards, lions, elephants, and more. To score major brownie points in the romance department opt for a night under the stars in a treehouse, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Where to stay Londolozi Founders Camp Londolozi Founders Camp is one of the most luxurious game lodges located in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Situated next to the iconic Kruger National Park, it consists of 17 hectares of wildlife-rich land. Londolozi is renowned for being one of the best places to watch and encounter the elusive leopard. This romantic and intimate lodge consists of seven chalets all equipped with en-suite bathrooms. Each chalet has its own wooden deck which allows guests to relax and enjoy the views overlooking the Sand River and really take in the beauty of the African wilderness. Big 5 game drives are offered twice daily, early morning and late afternoon. Londolozi offers only the best, most experienced rangers and trackers, which allows guests a magical wildlife experience.

Things to do in Durban

Things to do in durban

Situated on South Africa’s eastern coastline, the enchanting coastal city of Durban is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Located in the province of Kwazulu-Natal, a mere 1-hour flight from Johannesburg, Durban has become one of the leading holiday spots for South Africans with its variety of attractions and activities. From the hustle and bustle of the city centre and the revamped waterfront to its extensive cultural history, close proximity to wildlife reserves, or tons of family-friendly activities, Durban has something for everyone.

Whether you’re an adventure junkie at heart or searching for the ultimate beach holiday, there’s never a dull moment in Durban. From guided city tours, bungee swinging at the Moses Mabhida stadium, and taking a rickshaw ride along the Durban promenade you’ll be spoilt for choice with adventure activities. Get to learn more about local marine life and venture into the water park at uShaka Marine World. Take a stroll along the long stretch of golden beaches along the “Golden Mile” or immerse yourself in the Zulu heritage at Shakaland. For those who don’t mind venturing out a bit, take a drive to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park where you’ll get to see Hippos and crocodiles up close in lakes and estuaries. Whatever you’re into Durban has it all.

Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Durban.

Also we recommend you check out the 10 things you simply must do when visiting South Africa.

A stroll along the Golden Mile

The bustling beachfront promenade known as the "Golden Mile" is a popular destination for runners, surfers, cyclists, and anybody in the mood for a beachfront stroll. Flanked by hotels, restaurants, and shops, the popular "mile" is actually a 6.5km stretch that extends from Blue Lagoon South all the way up to Addington Beach and the Durban harbor. The sandy beaches along the "Golden Mile" attract an array of water babies and sports enthusiasts looking to swim, surf, fish, or soak up the sun.

Sunny beach days on Durban's Beaches

Durban is known to have some of the best weather in South Africa, even in Winter. With more than 300 days of sunshine, you're almost guaranteed a beach day every day. For those wanting to test their surfing skills, the South Coast beaches are a great starting point as they are known for world-class surfing. For families looking for a bit of fun in the sun, Addington Beach is the perfect option, while Bay of Plenty is home to the many beach volleyball tournaments.

Swing into the Moses Mabhida Stadium

As one of the host stadiums for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the Moses Mabhida Stadium is world-class sporting and event venue situated along the Golden Mile. It provides a breath-taking 360-degree view of the coastal city from the stadium's arch. Adventure seekers will love the 220 metre Big Rush Big swing where you'll be strapped in and dive 80m to experience the world's biggest swing. The is also a tour of the stadium offered where visitors will get to visit the various restaurants on-site as well as the shops selling sporting merchandise.

Valley of 1000 hills and Phe-Zulu

Just inland from Umhlanga Rocks is the Valley of 1000 Hills. This beautiful region is home to a variety of gently rounded hills all with spectacular viewpoints, gorges, and homesteads. The hills stem along the banks of the Umgeni River as it flows into the Indian Ocean from the Drakensberg Mountains. The old road between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, which is also part of the famous Comrades Marathon route, runs along the southern edge of the valley and offers gorgeous views. Phe-Zulu, a traditional Zulu village is found just after Hillcrest and offers visitors a chance to see Zulu traditions in the modern world from dance performances to rituals of witch doctors. The PheZulu Safari Park is also a great way to spend an afternoon, offering an abundance of animals as well as a crocodile and snake park.

Indian Quarter

Durban's Indian Quarter is a sight to behold and definitely worth a visit. Encompassing the Victoria Street Market and Juma Masjid Mosque, it is a mix of cultures and exotic aromas. Visit Indian, Chinese, Somali and Pakistani vendors along the streets and pavements selling everything from traditional Indian jewellery, footwear, and clothing to spices and incense. Be sure to stop for a bit to eat as the restaurants here are famous for the most authentic Indian cuisine.

Umhlanga Rocks

Just 16km north of Durban is the popular and upscale resort town of Umhlanga Rocks. Golden beaches with rocky outcrops stretch for 200 kilometers right up until the exquisite Isimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Isimangaliso Wetland Park includes eight eco-systems, three major lake systems, and Lake St. Lucia, Africa's largest estuarine system. Umhlanga Rocks offers a multitude of activities for visitors. Water sports enthusiasts will get to enjoy surfing, fishing, scuba diving, whale and dolphin watching, and kiteboarding. For those looking for a bit of retail therapy, the Gateway Theatre of Shopping is one of the largest shopping malls in the Southern Hemisphere and offers everything your heart could desire.

Addo Elephant National Park

Map of South Africa

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February 6, 2018/by sa

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