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Experience the resonance
Echo Caves
Capricorn district tourism attractions include the Bakone Malapa Museum.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The Echo Caves were "discovered" by a farmer in search of water, who realised that his cattle had already found their way into the caves to quench their thirsts.
The Echo Caves, Limpopo, lie 26km from Ohrigstad, a small town tucked away on the Tzaneen/Lydenburg Road in Limpopo. Only by visiting will you be able to appreciate why these caves, some of the oldest in the world, are today a national monument and a major tourist attraction. Although the caves may stretch for over 40km, nobody knows their exact extent. There is enough light inside the caves to make your experience all the more vivid.
Lose yourself inside the Echo Caves in Limpopo and admire the work of Mother Nature's hands, which produced the stunning designs of the rocks. Experience why the caves are have their name, by striking the rocks and listening to the echoes they produce, audible even from outside the caves.
As the least commercialised of all caves found in South Africa, they are well preserved, and you will always find them still in pristine condition.
While you tour the Limpopo cave, which can take you up to 45 minutes, look out for the engravings on the rocks by the San people dating back to the Stone Age.
The caves have further historical significance since they contain prehistoric items and artefacts used by our ancestors. These tools and relics date back to the Stone Age, and have been stored inside the nearby Museum of Man. This museum is deserves a visit while you're there.
Once you are out of the caves, hike in the nearby mountains for some rare sightings of bird species living in the area. Or simply enjoy the beautiful hills and landscapes surrounding the caves.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
For more information contact the Ohrigstad Tourism Association on
Tel: (+27-13) 238 8100
Fax: (+27-13) 238 8104
How to get here
The Echo Caves are situated 26km north of Ohrigstad, which is 375km from Johannesburg. From Johannesburg, take the N12 to Witbank, then change to N4 to Lyndenburg, and finally go onto R36.
Around the area
Ohrigstad Dam Nature Reserve, Blyde River Canyon, Drakensberg Mountains, Panorama Route, Gustav Klingbiel Nature Reserve.
Tours to do
There are daily tours of the caves from hotels in Ohrigstad.
Get around
There are numerous hiking trails around.
What will it cost
For the 2km guided tour the entrance fee is R40 per adult and R15 per child younger than 12.
Length of stay
Long trip
Where to stay
Accommodation is available near the caves and in Ohrigstad (bed and breakfast, self-catering, guest houses and hotels).
What to eat
There are restaurants at nearby Ohrigstad or else bring a picnic basket.
Best buys
Local arts and crafts at Ohrigstad town