As you wind your way along the narrow roads of the Karoo, the smell of the short scrub drifts lazily through the window. Proteas in full bloom nod along the road; an eager welcoming committee to the cultural hotspot of Oudtshoorn. Although Oudtshoorn is brimming with art, history and entertainment; it is also the perfect getaway for local and international tourists alike that are looking to get their adrenalin pumping.
Here is a taste of some of the exciting activities and adventures awaiting visitors to Oudtshoorn:
Ballooning
See the splendour of the Western Cape Karoo from the quiet heights above. Drift over the town of Oudtshoorn, the wine farms, olive farms, Swartberg Mountain Range and various deep gorges with nothing beneath you but the basket that swings idly under the balloon. This experience is coupled with hot coffee and cold champagne to make for a really memorable time. You can book an experience with Charl on +27 (0)82 784-8539.
Caving
TBi Adventures offers those wanting to experience the thrill of exploring the caves of the Karoo the real deal. This means no lights or walkways โ only helmets, headlamps and climbing gear. Although this takes more than a little courage, the experience of seeing these caves in their raw beauty is unrivalled. To make a booking telephone +27 (0)83 625-5848.
4 x 4 Trails
Experience the terrain of this stunning part of South Africa in a brand new way. Leisure Wheels provides tents, cooks meals on open fires and guides all visitors along rugged paths guaranteed to get your heart thumping and your knees shaking. Tourists need to have their own 4 x 4 vehicles.
Quad-biking
Even the faint-hearted among us are sure to enjoy a guided trail through ample mountains surrounding Oudtshoorn. Semi-automatic quad-bikes allow you to take in the stunning views as you traverse 22 kilometres of Karoo scrubland (no racing allowed). An optional extra includes the breath-taking Rust & Vrede waterfall, which crashes down some 80 metres in a dramatic display of natureโs power. This adventure is another service offered by TBi Adventures.
Cango Cave Adventures
The Cango Caves are just amazing, no question about it. However, a special adventure option is offered for those wanting to brave narrow passages, slippery slides and tiny rock slits through which to squeeze in order to experience the real majesty of the caves. Some of the holes through which you have to force your body are less than 30 centimetres in height!
Other fabulous adventures for the adrenalin junkies include:
- Ostrich riding
- Hiking
- Abseiling
- Foefie slides a Wilgewandel Holiday Farm
- Cage diving with crocodiles at Cango Wildlife Ranch
Useful Oudtshoorn Links:
