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Drakensberg Caves & Huts Database
10
RATING

Caracal Cave

Location:

Highmoor Wilderness Area

The cave can be reached via a relatively easy walk from the Highmoor office.  Careful map reading may be required to reach it in mist, however.  The Fulton's Rock art site is within easy walking distance of the cave, but a circular return route to the Highmoor office via this site and the trout dams can provide some more serious exercise for backpackers looking to extend themselves.  A visit to nearby Aasvoëlkrans Cave is also very worthwhile.

Co-ordinates (WGS84 / dd mm.mmm):

S29 17.326 E29 35.981 at 1856 metres

Description:

Accommodation: 12

Caracal Cave is a very large sandstone overhang, although only a relatively small, elevated part of the total floor area is suitable for sleeping accommodation for a maximum of 12 hikers.


Caracal Cave is located below a ridge where evidence of previous farming operations is still visible in the form of a dilapidated stone wall which once formed a kraal.  The lower end of the valley in which the cave is situated opens into the main river valley where erosion caused by cattle farming can still be seen.



3
COMFORT

The sleeping area is quite level but very dusty, and in recent years an animal has take to using part of it as a midden, which adds a distinct and powerful odour to this part of the cave!


1
WATER

In summer a small stream tumbles over the far end of the cave, but for most of the year there is a disappointing water supply which is reached by walking about 200 metres below the cave and climbing down into a rock gully.  Finding suitable drinking water within reasonable distance of the cave during the height of the dry season may prove difficult if not impossible.


0
POOLS

There are no pools anywhere near the cave.


5
SHELTER

The sandstone overhang which forms the cave is huge and provides perfect shelter from rain.  The trees and bush in front of the cave provide some protection from the wind.


1
OUTLOOK

The cave is north-facing, but since it is nestled in a valley there are no views of the escarpment.  The valley itself is quite short, but it has interesting vegetation.

Bookings:

+27 (033) 2637240

Contributors:


Last updated: 2009-08-21 11:38:47 | Report Listing Report Listing
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