Cango Caves
Western Cape
Situated at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains near Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves are among South Africa's most famous and visited natural attractions. The cave system extends over 4 kilometers, though only about a quarter is accessible to visitors under guided tours. The caves feature impressive limestone formations such as stalactites and stalagmites within vast chambers like the notable Van Zyl Hall. Archaeological evidence shows human use of the caves dating back to the Middle and Later Stone Ages, highlighting their long-standing cultural significance. Modern exploration began in the late 18th century, and since then the caves have been a popular tourist destination, offering both standard and adventurous tours that include crawling through narrow passages. The caves are managed by the Oudtshoorn municipality and form part of the scenic Route 62 experience, attracting visitors from around the world eager to explore its natural beauty and historical depth.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during the cooler months to avoid crowds and heat. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for the popular Adventure Tour, which involves crawling through narrow passages. Wear comfortable footwear and bring a light jacket as the cave temperature remains cool year-round. Guided tours ensure safety and provide informative commentary.
Interesting facts
- •The caves extend over 4 kilometers, but only about 1 kilometer is open to tourists.
- •Van Zyl Hall, the largest chamber, is as long as a football field.
- •The smallest passage on the Adventure Tour is just under 15 centimeters wide.
- •Explorers in 1898 reportedly walked 29 hours underground, estimating they were 25 km from the entrance.
- •The caves have been used by humans since the Middle and Later Stone Ages, evidenced by archaeological finds.
History
The Cango Caves were rediscovered in 1780 by farmer Jacobus Van Zyl, who first entered the large chamber now named after him.
Further exploration in 1792 revealed additional chambers, making the caves a popular attraction early on.
Archaeological excavations in the 20th century uncovered stone tools and artifacts from prehistoric times, confirming human use during the Middle and Later Stone Ages.
Legal protection was established with the Cango Caves Ordinance in 1999, transferring management responsibilities to local government authorities.
Over the years, extensive surveys and explorations have mapped out multiple cave sections, notably Cango I, II, and III, expanding knowledge of the complex underground system.
Place Guide
Van Zyl Hall1780
The largest chamber in the cave system, named after the farmer who rediscovered the caves. It is notable for its vast size, stretching as long as a football field, and impressive limestone formations.
Adventure Tour PassagesModern guided tours developed in the 20th century
A challenging section of the caves involving crawling through narrow passages as small as 15 centimeters wide, climbing steep rock formations, and exploring less accessible chambers.
Contact
Phone: 044 272 7410
