Today’s tidbit: “Travel doesn’t become adventure until you leave yourself behind.” ― Marty Rubin 

Need a break from the snow storm hitting most of the US? Check out this adventurous + exciting warm day as we continue along the Western Cape province exploring Oudtshoorn, which is the ostrich capital of the world. The world’s biggest bird was just one of the many attractions in this area of exceptional contrasts and natural beauty. We had two exciting stops along the way, the first of which was a tour at Safari Ostrich Show Farm where we learned about, fed and interacted with ostrich (and yes, I even rode one!). We then continued on to the Cango Caves, the biggest show cave system in Africa.

Sneak peek image:

Be sure to click below to read more and check out more pictures. Enjoy!

{Safari Ostrich Show Farm}

As the website states, “The towns of Oudtshoorn and De Rust are in the Klein Karoo between the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains. Oudtshoorn is the ostrich capital of the world. The world’s biggest bird is just one of the many attractions in this area of exceptional contrasts and natural beauty. Our climate here in the “Klein Karoo” is ideal for these large birds to breed and live. The Oudtshoorn and Karoo area can also be seen as the ostrich capital of the world and it was also here where the big ostrich feather and leather boom happened.” Read more.

The first stop we took a tour of the operating farm followed by lunch. It really was interesting to see and interact with these large birds. During the tour we learned about different types of ostrich feathers as well as the process of ostrich skins, from tanning and dying to the manufacturing of products. We saw large flocks of ostrich and had the chance to stand on eggs (as you’ll see below) along with feed them.

{riding the ostrich} Wrapping up the tour, visitors had the chance to sit on and/or ride an ostrich. No one in our group was brave enough, and somehow I was volunteered to. I didn’t know what to expect but figured why not. After signing the waiver and putting another layer of pants on that they handed out, I was as ready as I was going to be. I figured if I can ride horses, I can do this!

They showed me where to hold on (the wings) and said to lean back, which is the opposite with horses. Before I knew it they were chasing the thing around while it ran all over the place. I can’t explain how it felt, but the movement and position is nothing like riding horses, and it was much faster than I expected. Although it was all so fast and crazy, I’m glad I did it. Not many people I know can say they rode an ostrich! 🙂 Below are a few pictures my mom took.

After that excitement, the tour ended with the Ostrich Derby where the jockeys showed off their riding skills.

{Cango Caves} 

As the website states, “A cultural and natural landmark in South Africa. It is situated in the Swartberg Mountains, 30 km north of Oudtshoorn, in South Africa’s Western Cape Province.” Read more.

Quick Facts:

• Frequently described as one of the great Natural Wonders of The World.
• The biggest show cave system in Africa.
• Inhabited since the Early Stone Age.
• It is South Africa’s oldest tourist attraction.
• The formations are unique: they would not have normally formed in this area and are a result of faulting.

{Protea Hotel Riempie Estate} After that exciting day, we made it to our hotel for the night. Like some of the other accommodations, the rooms were rondavel. Arriving in the evening, we had some time to wander around the property and enjoy the pool before meeting our group for dinner.

As the website states, “Enjoy the best Oudtshoorn has to offer from the comfort of Protea Hotel Riempie Estate – a cozy country atmosphere in a tranquil setting. The hotel is close to the exotic crocodile and ostrich farms the town is famous for and a short drive from the Cango Caves and town’s central business district.” Read more.

Yup, another wonderful warm day exploring South Africa! And speaking of warm places, I am tired of this long snowy winter and am heading on a Western Caribbean cruise with my mom and sister this weekend! More than ready for sun, beaches and adventure! 🙂

Check back the last week of February for another SA post as we drive to Stellenboshe.