Our First day on our Africa Overland Trip

As mentioned before in our introduction, we planned our first Africa overland trip mostly with the help of paper guide books. Only 10% of South Africans had access to the internet in the year 2008. Day one saw us travelling to the Sudwala Caves, about 300 km from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo airport and only 100 km from the Kruger National Park’s Malelane Gate. As a former student of Geology and Archaeology (in one of my previous lives), my interest in caves, excavations, natural phenomena and nature itself is high. Luckily, Fred had driven on the left side before and we arrived at the caves without accident, only with him mumbling some swear words now and then while using the windscreen wipers instead of the indicator. 

The pickup of our rental car went smooth so we did the guided Crystal Tour in the caves but missed the Dinosaurs and the Butterflies. We were on day one of our Africa Overland trip and we were excited but dead tired. Luckily we could “load our batteries” at the wonderful Pierre’s Mountain Inn just next door. Sudwala caves are simply breathtaking and my pictures really show a fraction of their beauty. 

Sudwala Caves Covid UPDATE

in December 2021 – We are open every day including weekends and public holidays from 8:30 am-4:30 pm. There is no need to book in advance. Our adult prices are R100, children R60 and pensioners R80. For more information see our Facebook page for updates. Alternatively please call us at 083 446 0228 or email us at info@sudwalacaves.com 

In line with government recommendations, the Sudwala Caves have implemented new touring protocols and safe distancing measures for those that would like to visit the caves. Please wear a mask if you do decide to come. The Butterfly Park remains free for anyone that would like to visit. We will release updates on our website and social media platforms as the situation evolves. We look forward to seeing you at the Sudwala Caves.

 

Protect yourself and stay safe!