Oudtshoorn: Highgate Ostrich Farm Tour & Ostrich Derby Ticket

Summary

Feed ostriches watch a live derby and taste Klein Karoo flavors

You’ll get up close with Oudtshoorn’s famous ostriches—feeding them by hand, seeing eggs in the incubators, and watching a lively local derby race along the world’s longest track. End your visit with a traditional meal overlooking the Klein Karoo valley. It’s lively, sometimes awkward, always memorable.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway through the main yard at Highgate Ostrich Farm when our guide, Pieter, handed me a scoop of pellets. “Go on, they’re gentle,” he said, grinning as one of the birds eyed me sideways—those eyelashes are no joke. The sound when the feed hit their beaks was sharper than I expected, almost like pebbles in a tin. I tried not to flinch but honestly, you feel how strong they are up close. The Klein Karoo sun was doing its thing—dry heat with that faint dusty smell you only get out here near Oudtshoorn.

I didn’t think I’d laugh so much at an ostrich race, but there we were along the fence, cheering for jockeys who somehow manage to stay upright on these giant birds. The track is long—apparently the longest for ostrich racing anywhere—and it’s wild watching locals bet quietly or shout in Afrikaans. Pieter explained how each bird has its own personality (he called one “the diva”). My hands still smelled faintly of grain from earlier, and I kept thinking about those huge eggs we saw in the incubator room—one egg feeds six people? That stuck with me.

The farmlands part felt slower, almost peaceful compared to all that chaos. We saw breeding pairs nesting and I tried sitting on an ostrich (awkward doesn’t even cover it). Lunch at The Pepper Tree after was honestly needed—I went for the classic three-course meal with ostrich steak and egg. It’s richer than chicken but not as heavy as beef; hard to explain until you try it yourself. The view over Swartberg Mountains from the old homestead porch made me linger longer than planned. I still think about that quiet moment before we drove back toward town.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ostrich farm tour and meal

• Learn about ostriches
• Feed ostriches by hand
• Watch feather, egg, leather crafts
• See ostrich anatomy and nests
• Ride or sit on an ostrich
• Watch traditional ostrich race
• Enjoy ostrich meal at restaurant

Top questions

How long does the Highgate Ostrich Farm tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Can you feed or touch the ostriches during the tour?

Yes, you can feed ostriches by hand during your visit.

Is there an option to ride an ostrich?

For those brave enough, there is a chance to sit on or ride an ostrich under supervision.

Are meals included in the ticket?

You can add a traditional meal at The Pepper Tree Restaurant after your tour; menu options are available.

What is included in the ticket price?

The ticket includes all taxes, fees, handling charges, activities on-site, and access to demonstrations.

Is this suitable for children or families?

The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels—families are welcome.

Where is Highgate Ostrich Farm located?

The farm is near Oudtshoorn in South Africa’s Klein Karoo region.

Do tours include a guide?

Yes, each group is led by a knowledgeable local guide throughout both main yard and farmland sections.

What’s included

Your visit includes entry to Highgate Ostrich Farm near Oudtshoorn with all activities: feeding ostriches by hand, guided demonstrations of feather crafts and egg incubation, access to both main yard and farmlands sections, plus a seat at the live ostrich derby race. Meals at The Pepper Tree Restaurant are available as add-ons after your tour if you want to taste local specialties before heading out again.