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22 RATING | Gxalingenwa Cave |
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Location:
This magnificent cave is situated in a narrow valley overlooking some interesting rock formations. Of all the lower berg caves, it is undoubtedly the most sheltered and the one most resembling a true cave. It can be reached from Cobham via Emerald Stream and Pinnacle Rock, or via Ngenwa Pool. Both routes offer fine scenery and swimming opportunities. The cave also provides a very comfortable overnight stop for those planning to climb Masubsuba Pass the next day. Alternatively, you can climb to the top of the Hub some 4 km further up the valley, then descend back down into the next valley south via Fingall's Rock, where you can choose from Gorge Cave, Spectacle Cave or Pholela Cave for another overnight stay. The only disadvantage of the cave's location is that the last 200 metres involve a stiff uphill climb! Fortunately this is usually sufficient to discourage its use by smugglers, although during heavy rain they may use it for a temporary shelter. This means that during the summer months it can now be quite filthy - a most unfortunate situation since it is otherwise one of the best lower berg caves in the entire Drakensberg range.
Co-ordinates (WGS84 / dd mm.mmm):
S29 38.161 E29 21.746 at 2066 metres
Description:
Accommodation: 12
The cave can accommodate 12 people with ease. One small section of the cave may become damp during the height of the wet summer season. The main area is large and reasonably level, while the small honeymoon suite next door can provide lodgings for a private couple or two banished snorers / smokers / etc!
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5 COMFORT | There are few caves in the mountains that can provide such a feeling of homely seclusion! |
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5 WATER | In summer a reliable stream tumbles over the lip of the cave around the corner from the sleeping quarters. Should this stream dry up during winter, one can always brave the walk down to the main river and back up again to collect water. |
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4 POOLS | There is a nice-sized pool slightly downstream from the waterfall, within easy reach of the cave. The more adventurous can walk down to the main river, where there is a large selection of pools and sun-bathing rocks to choose from. |
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5 SHELTER | The cave is recessed behind and below a slight rise, and there is an extensive swathe of indigenous bush, including some yellow-wood trees, around the remainder of the open side of the cave. These combine to provide excellent shelter from both wind and rain. |
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3 OUTLOOK | The cave is quite closed in, but once outside there are some interesting views of the valley and rock formations opposite it. Eland often frequent this part of the valley, and in summer your night-time visitors may include field mice and their much larger relative, the cute and cuddly-looking dormouse, so don't leave food out to tempt them! |
Bookings:
+27 (033) 7020831
Contributors:
Last updated: 2009-08-14 10:32:01 | Report Listing
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