Caves are magnificent and mysterious at the same time. The Western Cape has various beautiful caves by the sea that visitors can explore.
Sea caves are formed by mechanical erosion through ocean waves breaking directly on a rock cliff, rather than the chemical solution process that is responsible for the majority of inland caves, according to Britannica.
Here are 5 caves worth remembering when planning your post-lockdown hiking adventures.
1. Klipgat Caves, Gansbaai
These caves were home to humans from 80,000 years ago, according to SAVenues. The area is also believed to have housed people during the Middle Stone Age and eventually the Khoisan from the Late Stone Age, according to Grootbos. From here you have a stunning view of Walker Bay and may very likely spot some whales.
2. Waenhuiskrans Cave, Arniston
The name, meaning ‘wagon house cliff’ in Afrikaans comes from the idea that the cave is so large, it could have fit an ox wagon in inside. Make your way there about 190 kilometres from Cape Town along the N2. The area is part of the Waenhuiskrans Nature Reserve and holds Grade 1 Heritage Importance status.
3. Elands Bay Cave
These caves are home to several rock paintings by ancient San tribes and an archeological site of the University of Cape Town. The area was declared a Provincial Heritage Site in 2009. The caves are situated near the Verlorenvlei Estuary, another worthy stop to add to your trip.
4. Peers Cave, Cape Peninsula
You can reach Peers Cave from either Fish Hoek or Ou Kaapse Weg. Early explorers and excavators, Victor Peers and his son Bertie, discovered a skull in the cave, the bone structure of which was traced back to those who roamed the coast some 15 000 years ago, according to SAVenues.
5. Pinnacle Point Caves, Mossel Bay
Pinnacle Point was declared a Provincial Heritage Site in 2012. Also called the Point of Human Origin, remains found there were believed to date back to the Middle Stone Age. The views onto the ocean right below the cave are unequalled and the insightful archeological tours offered are a bonus.
Image credit: Instagram/jaredberman_
