Eastern Cape — Cave Surveys

Sea caves, coastal sandstone systems, and archaeological cave sites in the Eastern Cape.

The Eastern Cape surveys cover coastal sea caves along the Tsitsikamma coast, the world-heritage Klasies River Mouth caves, and sandstone systems in the Suurberg.

Conservation note Many of these caves fall within national parks or nature reserves. Permits are required for entry into caves within the Table Mountain National Park and other protected areas. Check permit requirements before visiting.

Caving areas

Klasies River — 3 caves

The Klasies River Mouth caves are among the world’s most important archaeological sites. Excavations have revealed evidence of anatomically modern human behaviour, including shellfish exploitation, dating to approximately 120,000 years ago. The site forms part of the Cape Floral Region UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Suurberg — 3 caves

A small group of sandstone caves in the Suurberg near Addo, surveyed in December 1996.

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Tsitsikamma — 19 caves

A series of coastal sandstone sea caves line the Tsitsikamma coast, many accessible only on foot via the Otter Trail. The caves are formed at the base of sea cliffs in Table Mountain Group sandstone and are subject to wave action at high tide. Otter Trail Guano Cave, at 140 m, is the longest in the group.

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