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Cave · Mbombela, Mpumalanga
Cavernas de Sudwala
Caves in Precambrian dolomitic rock in the Houtbosloop valley west of Mbombela, featuring a large natural chamber and guided tours.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Cavernas de Sudwala
The Sudwala caves are on the slopes of Mankelekele Mountain in the Houtbosloop river valley, about 35 km west of Mbombela. They formed in dolomitic rock, a marine-origin rock billions of years old, by the action of water over millions of years.
The guided tour covers about 600 metres of galleries, featuring stalactites, stalagmites and fossils of primitive algae in the rock. The highlight is the PR Owen chamber, a large circular space with such good acoustics that it has hosted concerts.
The name comes from Sudwala, a Swazi leader who, according to tradition, used the caves as a refuge in the 19th century. During the Anglo-Boer War, the Boers are said to have stored ammunition there.
Next to the entrance there is a park with dinosaur replicas and a picnic area in the forest. The temperature inside the cave remains stable year-round.
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 1 hour for the guided tour.
Best time
Any time of year; tours run frequently throughout the day. Queues are larger on South African public holidays.
How to get there
It is about 35 km from Mbombela via the N4 towards Johannesburg, with a signposted exit onto the R539. Allow about 40 minutes by car.
Tip
Wear closed footwear; the floor is wet in some sections.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cavernas de Sudwala
Where are the Sudwala caves?
About 35 km west of Mbombela in the Houtbosloop river valley, accessible via the N4 and the R539.
Do you need a guide to visit Sudwala?
Yes, visits are conducted with a guide in groups that depart throughout the day.
How old are the Sudwala caves?
The dolomitic rock in which the caves formed dates from the Precambrian period, billions of years old.