Safari Ostrich Farm- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

At the Safari Ostrich Farm in Oudtshoorn, South Africa, a remarkable avian world unfolds before visitors, offering a unique glimpse into the life and history of one of the planet's most intriguing flightless birds, the ostrich. This expansive farm does not merely limit its showcase to the local South African ostrich species—it goes further to introduce guests to the vibrant hues of the Kenyan Red and Zimbabwe Blue Ostriches, alongside the majestic Emu from Australia, the world's second largest bird. Furthermore, the farm harbors the captivating rare White Ostriches, adding to the rich tapestry of avian marvels on display. The evolutionary journey of ostriches is as fascinating as the creatures themselves, with origins tracing back 40 to 60 million years along the stretches from the Mediterranean Sea to China and Mongolia. Their migratory southward trek across Africa approximately a million years ago, paralleling larger mammals, marks a significant chapter in their history. By the time Jan van Riebeeck landed at the Cape in 1652, ostriches were a common sight across the African continent, with the Western Cape being particularly notable for its large flocks. Ostrich farming's roots in Oudtshoorn tell a compelling story of innovation and adaptation. Capturing wild chicks and incubating eggs from nests of wild birds marked the industry's humble beginnings. This pioneering spirit led Oudtshoorn's farmers to not only domesticate the local ostrich population but to create the ideal conditions for their prosperity. The discovery of Lucerne as a perfect fodder and the establishment of Lucerne fields amid a terrain that mirrored the ostrich’s natural habitat underscored the region's suitability for ostrich farming. It's no wonder Oudtshoorn earned the moniker “Ostrich Capital of the World.” The export of ostrich feathers, once a booming industry that rivaled gold, wool, and diamonds in export value for South Africa, illustrates the economic significance of ostrich farming. Despite the dramatic industry collapse triggered by World War 1, the legacy and resilience of ostrich farming live on, especially at the Safari Ostrich Farm.