Fodor's Expert Review Cango Caves

Oudtshoorn Cave Fodor's Choice

Between Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert, the huge and stunningly beautiful 20-million-year-old Cango Caves, filled with weird and wonderful stalactite and stalagmite formations, are deservedly one of the most popular attractions in the area. Only a small fraction of the caves, which extend for several miles through the mountains, is open. There's some damage from vandals, especially to the first chamber, but things get more magnificent the more the tour progresses. One of the highlights is Cleopatra's Needle, which stands 29 feet high and is at least 150,000 years old. You can choose between two tours: the hour-long standard tour and the aptly named adventure tour, which lasts 1½ hours. The latter is exhilarating, but the temperatures and humidity are high, there's not much oxygen, and you'll be shimmying up narrow chimneys on your belly, wriggling your way through tiny tunnels, and sliding on your bottom. Wear old clothes and shoes with a good tread.

Cave Fodor's Choice

Quick Facts

Off R328
Oudtshoorn, Western Cape  6620, South Africa

044-272–7410

www.cango-caves.co.za

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: R150

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