Explore the Majestic Cango Caves: A Natural Wonder of South Africa
Discover the stunning limestone formations and rich history of the Cango Caves, one of South Africa's premier natural attractions.
A brief summary to Cango Caves
- Cango Caves R328 Cango Valley, Oudtshoorn, 6625, ZA
- +27442727410
The Cango Caves, located in the picturesque Cango Valley near Oudtshoorn, are one of South Africa's oldest and most significant tourist attractions. This remarkable underground wonder is renowned for its stunning limestone formations, vast caverns, and intriguing history that dates back thousands of years. Visitors are often captivated by the natural beauty of the caves, which feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as unique rock formations that have been sculpted by nature over millennia. Guided tours provide an opportunity to explore various chambers, including the magnificent Great Hall, known for its incredible acoustics and breathtaking size. Aside from the natural allure, the Cango Caves also serve as a heritage museum, preserving the rich cultural history of the region. The caves have been a site of human habitation for centuries, and the stories of those who came before us add depth to the experience. Visitors can learn about the geology of the caves and the various species that inhabit them, including bats and other unique wildlife. The tours are designed to cater to different levels of adventure, from easy walks to more challenging explorations for the adventurous spirit. The Cango Caves are open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, making it convenient for tourists to plan a visit. Surrounding the caves, the stunning landscape of the Cango Valley offers additional activities such as ostrich farms and wildlife sanctuaries, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking adventure, the Cango Caves are a must-see destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons to avoid long waits.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and sometimes slippery.
- Bring a light jacket; it can get chilly inside the caves despite the warm weather outside.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions like ostrich farms to make the most of your trip.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views inside the caves!
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car along Route 62, head towards Oudtshoorn. The Cango Caves are located about 29 kilometers from Oudtshoorn along the R328 road. From Oudtshoorn, take the R62 heading southwest, then turn onto the R328. Follow the R328 for about 25 minutes, and you will see signs for the Cango Caves. There is a parking area available on-site.
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Public Transportation
To reach Cango Caves via public transportation, first, take a bus from your location on Route 62 to Oudtshoorn. Once in Oudtshoorn, you can take a local taxi or shuttle service to the Cango Caves. Ensure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary. The taxi ride from Oudtshoorn to Cango Caves typically costs around 200-300 ZAR, depending on the provider.
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Guided Tour
Consider booking a guided tour from Oudtshoorn that includes transportation to the Cango Caves. Many tour operators offer packages that cover entrance fees and guided cave tours. This can be a convenient option, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Prices for these tours can range between 400-800 ZAR per person, depending on the inclusions.
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