Cango Caves in South Africa 2024

Discover the fascinating maze of stalagmite and stalactite chambers that appeared on earth millions of years ago

Best time: all year round (except December 25)

The Cango caves are considered to be the oldest tourist attraction in South Africa. They are a true natural wonder with a huge system of stalagmite and stalactite chambers and tunnels found in the Swartberg Mountains, nearly 30 kilometres north of Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape Province.

Scientists claim they are around 20 million years old and that this area has been inhabited since the Early Stone Age. Despite such antiquity, the caves have been frequented by tourists only since the 1800s.

Only Cango 1 is open to the public. It can be explored during a one-hour Standart Tour that will take you across Van Zyl and Botha Halls. Another option is the 90-minute Adventure Tour that covers the entire Cango 1. The first route is simple, the second one is moderate. Still, common rules apply to both: visitors must be over the age of 6 and can't suffer from claustrophobia or any back ailments.

The tours operate all year long, except December 25. As there has been an increase in visitors, it is a good idea to book your tour in advance.