Explore the Majestic Cango Caves
Discover the enchanting Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn, South Africa – a natural wonder of stunning limestone formations and rich cultural history.
A brief summary to Cango Caves
- Cango Caves R328 Cango Valley, Oudtshoorn, 6625, ZA
- +27442727410
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Nestled in the picturesque Cango Valley near Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves are a must-visit for any traveler seeking to experience South Africa's natural beauty. This extensive cave system boasts an array of stunning limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and massive rock chambers that have been shaped over millions of years. Guided tours provide visitors with insights into the caves' fascinating history, geology, and the indigenous Khoisan people who once inhabited this remarkable site. Each tour varies in length and intensity, accommodating everyone from casual visitors to adventure seekers. The Cango Caves are not only a natural marvel but also a heritage site that highlights the importance of preserving our natural environment. The caves are open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, allowing ample opportunity for exploration. Visitors can engage in various activities, including adventure caving, where they can traverse through narrow passages and experience the thrill of spelunking. After your cave exploration, take a moment to enjoy the surrounding landscape, which offers beautiful views and numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts. In addition to the caves, the area is rich in wildlife and offers opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local fauna. The nearby town of Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostrich farms and is known as the ostrich capital of the world, making it a great addition to your itinerary. The Cango Caves provide a unique blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cave terrain can be uneven.
- Consider the adventure tour for a more thrilling experience if you're physically able.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning formations, but remember flash photography is not allowed in certain areas.
- Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can affect your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, the Cango Caves are located approximately 30 kilometers from Oudtshoorn. Start by heading south on the N12 road from Bushveld towards Oudtshoorn. Continue on the N12 for about 20 kilometers until you reach the junction with the R328. Take the exit onto R328, and follow the road for another 10 kilometers. Look for the signs indicating Cango Caves, which will be on your left. There is parking available on-site, but be aware that a small parking fee may apply.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus from Bushveld to Oudtshoorn. Several bus companies operate this route, and the journey takes about 1-1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Oudtshoorn, you can take a local taxi or shuttle service directly to the Cango Caves. Make sure to confirm the fare with the taxi driver before starting your journey. Expect to pay around R100-150 for the taxi ride to the caves.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation from Bushveld to the Cango Caves. Many tour companies offer packages that include round-trip transportation, entry fees, and guided tours of the caves. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive. Check local tourism offices or online for tour availability and prices, which generally start around R600 per person.
Attractions Nearby to Cango Caves
- Kobus se Gat - Swartberg Experience
- Cango Ostrich Farm
- Rust-en-Vrede Waterfall
- Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
- Cango Wildlife Ranch
- C.P Nel Museum
- Oudtshoorn
- Tsumkwe Private Game Reserve
- Fransie Pienaar Museum
- Meerkat Adventures
- Swartberg Game Reserve
- Safari Ostrich Farm
- Wolwekraal Nature Reserve
- Highgate Ostrich Show Farm
- Meiringspoort Waterfall