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Western Cape
Attractions
Animals
Safari
Routes
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What you need to know
Wildlife
Weekend Getaway
Bush Retreats

TThe Cango Route stretches from Oudtshoorn, the world’s ostrich capital, through the Cango Valley, over the R328 to the Swartberg Pass, a marvel in mountain pass construction (and considered one of the finest mountain passes in the world), and back to Oudtshoorn. 

In this stretch of the Little Karoo, you will come across a selection of farm stays, game lodges, wineries and even a ‘Karoo Tapas’ establishmentthe R62 Deli. 

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 a three-hour drive and 30km 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 and Cottages or opt for luxury-tented accommodation at somewhere like the Buffelsdrift Game Lodge where you may 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. 

Star of the Cango Route remains, of course, the Cango Caves located 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… 

Did You Know?

TTravel  tips & planning  info 

 

Who to contact 

Oudtshoorn and de Rust Tourism Office 

Tel: +27 (0)44 279 2532 
E-mail: info@oudtshoorn.com 

How to get here 

From Port Elizabeth travel through Knysna on the N2. Continue on the N2 to George and then take the R9 North towards Oudtshoorn, which is well sign posted and becomes R62. 

From Cape Town travel along the N2 and at Swellendam head towards the R324 to Barrydale. From Barrydale keep on the R62 to Oudtshoorn.

Things to do 

De Rust is also an attractive little town close to Oudtshoorn; on your drive over the Swartberg Pass and, if you have a sturdy vehicle, drive carefully down to Gamkaskloof – also known as De Hel ('the hell'); explore the famous Route 62 between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn; the Prince Albert Olive Festival takes place annually at the end of April or the beginning of May. 

What to pack 

You’re in mountain country, where the weather can suddenly turn cold, even in spring (September/October) or autumn (April/May), so pack accordingly. The summer months (November to March) are very hot, so pack light clothing. 

Related links 

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