Lower Aladdin Cave

Length: 50m | Surveyed: 1930-01-01

Anthony Hitchcock and Peter Swart, 6 July 2002

Extension: 30m

Introduction

Drupkrans is a lofty break in the cliff caused by collapse of large blocks of rock that have accumulated at the base of the cliff between Lower Aladdin Cave and the Wizards’ Cell. The floors of the two passages have eroded away so that they join as you approach the Drupkrans. The vertical development continues down to a small boulder choke that leads to Lower Aladdin cave. The passages could be easily connected if the boulders were cleared. Lower Aladdin therefore forms the lowest level of a three-tear system of interconnected passages, with two levels of Harbour View Cave above.

Lower Aladdin Cave is a well-known cave at the base of the cliff. It may be entered via a short climb into a small open chamber or a narrower passage on the right. From this open chamber, there is a good view of Fishhoek, and there is usually a small stream of water dripping from the roof high above. A short drop into a 5m high corridor leads to short network of sandy passages. It is possible to scramble out of the cave at the entrance of Drupkrans. One of the narrow passages leads to a pool of water often collected for tea.

History

The name Lower Aladdin is a reference a prior name of Boomslang Cave. Boomslang Cave is directly above Lower Aladdin and was called Aladdin's Cave at some point during the 1920s and 1930s. Meyer's painted name is still visible on the cave wall.

Safety

Apart from falling into the main passage of the cave which is a dro pof approximately 2m, this cave is not dangerous.

Extract from Fire Protection Services booklet

A big entrance leads to the main hall which is nearly 100 feet in length; off this a passage runs to the right for 40 feet and after turning to the left, and finally to the right, terminates. This cave is 165 feet in length.

There is another smaller exit into the boulder pile at Drupkrans.