Nestled within the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit if you find yourself in the Cradle of Humankind.
The Bothongo WonderCave was discovered by Italian miners in 1898, who mined approximately 15% of its calcite formations to produce lime for cement, toothpaste, and gold extraction. Despite the end of mining activities in 1902 due to low productivity and the outbreak of war, the WonderCave remains the third-largest cave chamber in South Africa, following the Cango Caves and Sudwala Caves.
The cave is part of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich fossil record that offers a window into our past. The single massive chamber of the WonderCave, accessible via a staircase and an elevator, boasts a variety of formations, including rimstone pools, cave pearls, and stalagmites up to 15 meters high. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural underground beauty, estimated to be between 5 to 10 million years old.
The WonderCave’s historical and natural allure is complemented by its location within the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, where visitors can immerse themselves in wildlife and nature. The cave itself, with conducted tours available every hour, allows for a deeper understanding of geological processes and human history in the region.
The entrance fee to the WonderCave, which includes access to the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, is R320 per person. This not only grants access to the cave but also the fun family amenities in the reserve, like the braai/picnic areas, swimming pools, wildlife centre, and much more.
The cave was temporarily closed due to an increase in the water table level, affecting its accessibility. However, it has since reopened, inviting explorers and nature enthusiasts to witness its magnificence once again.
