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Archaeological site · Mossel Bay, Cabo Ocidental
Cape St Blaize Cave e Lighthouse
Sea‑edge cave beneath the 1864 lighthouse, used by humans more than 100,000 years ago, at the start of Mossel Bay’s cliff trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cape St Blaize Cave e Lighthouse
Cape St Blaize is the rocky headland that closes Mossel Bay. The name comes from St Blaise, the saint of the day Dias arrived. At the top stands the lighthouse, a white tower first lit on 15 March 1864, which for a long time was one of the country’s few lighthouses with full‑time keepers.
Just below the lighthouse, a staircase descends to the Cape St Blaize cave, a large opening in the cliff facing the sea. Excavations have shown it was used by hunter‑gatherers for more than 100,000 years, with layers of shells, stone tools and hearth remains. The cave is part of a cluster of sites in the region; the neighbouring Pinnacle Point is included in a UNESCO World Heritage designation for sites that show the emergence of modern human behaviour.
The St Blaize trail starts at the cave and follows the cliff tops for about 13 km to Dana Bay, with sea views all the way. The first section, to the viewpoints, is the most popular.
From the lighthouse viewpoint it’s common to see dolphins and, from July to November, whales.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes for the cave and lighthouse at a relaxed midday pace with the trail.
Best time
Late afternoon, with the sun over the sea. For the trail, prefer the morning. In strong winds, avoid the cliff edge.
How to get there
It is at the tip of the Point neighbourhood, about 2 km from Mossel Bay centre, walkable or reachable by car.
Tip
Wear closed shoes for the staircase and trail. Stay away from the cliff edge in windy conditions.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cape St Blaize Cave e Lighthouse
What is the Cape St Blaize cave?
A sea‑edge cave beneath the lighthouse, used by humans more than 100,000 years ago.
How long is the St Blaize trail?
About 13 km along the top of the cliffs, to Dana Bay. You can do just the beginning.
Is the cave far from the center?
About 2 km, in the Point neighborhood.