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Thirty kilometres of surprises and adventures
The Cango Route
Gawking ostrich - icon of the Cango Route.
© Chris Marais
Did you know?
The Cango Route is blessed with an average of 330 days of sunshine a year.
The Cango Route stretches from Oudtshoorn, the world’s ostrich capital, on the R328 to the Swartberg Pass, a marvel in mountain pass construction.
In this fabled sector of the Little Karoo, you will come across a selection of farm stays, game lodges, wineries and even a ‘Karoo Tapas’ establishment. Not only are you in the midst of ostrich country, but this is also where the olive grows like a merry demon – and good cheese is available everywhere.
The road through the Cango Valley might only be 30 kilometres long, but if you take it slow and enjoy the attractions along the way, you’ll soon see the magic of it all.
You can stay over in secluded little places like Berluda Farmhouse & Cottages or opt for luxury tented accommodation at somewhere like the Buffelsdrift Game Lodge where you stand a chance to see Cape buffalo, elephant, hippo, giraffe and more than 200 bird species.
One of the most popular spots on the Cango Route is the Cango Ostrich Farm where, if you’re feeling brave, you could get to actually ride one of those marvellous feathered birds with the long eyelashes.
Then there’s TBI Adventures, an outfit that will show you the secrets of the great Swartberg range that looms in the distance. In their wilderness area, they provide a range of adventure activities, walks, tours and a precious opportunity to simply be still and drink in the unspoilt nature all about.
Star of the Cango Route show remains, of course, the Cango Caves in a limestone ridge parallel to the Swartberg range. Start your Cango experience with the standard tour into the dripstone caverns, vast halls and massive formations. If you’re fit and able, sign on for the adventure tour, a slightly more challenging experience. Either way, the Cango encounter will leave you with special memories…
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Cango Ostrich Show Farm:
Tel: +27 (0) 44 272 4623
Email: cango.ostrich@pixie.co.za
TBI Adventures:
Tel: +27 (0) 44 272 6696
Email: info@tbiadventures.co.za
Cango Caves:
Tel: +27 (0) 44 272 7410
Email: reservations@cangocaves.co.za
How to get here
The 30km-long Cango Route lies between Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape and the Swartberg Pass leading into Prince Albert.
Around the area
While in the area, drive over the stunning Swartberg Pass; visit Prince Albert, one of the Karoo's most stylish villages; see Gamkaskloof, also known as The Hel; and travel Route 62 leading down to Robertson near Cape Town.
Tours to do
Route 62 Wine Tours are very popular - this road is marketed as the longest wine route in the world.
Get around
Hire a vehicle (it's not necessary to hire a 4X4 or sports utility vehicle for this route) from Cape Town or Oudtshoorn and venture forth.
What will it cost
Accommodation prices vary according to standards, from R300 (per person, self-catering) upwards.
Length of stay
Three days for this route is ideal.
What to pack
Pack something warm for the nights; something light for the days; sturdy hiking boots or shoes; a good hat.
Where to stay
The Cango Route website offers you everything from farmstays to guest houses along the route.
What to eat
Ostrich fillet is a firm favourite; for the lighter diners there is a wide range of cheeses, olives and tapas-type foods.
What's happening
Check dates with Oudtshoorn Tourism for their various festivals, including the main cultural festival in March.
Best buys
Ostrich products; hand-made crafts; dried meats.