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TThe Echo Caves, Limpopo, offer a great journey of discovery, not only of the beautiful dripstones inside the caves, but also of the historical significance of this national monument.
The Echo Caves in 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 limestone caves in the world, are today a national monument and a tourist attraction.
The caves were first discovered on the farm Klipfonteinhoek back in 1923 by the local farmer who stumbled upon them while searching for his cattle. Although the caves may stretch for over 40km, nobody knows their full extent.
There are daily tours of 45 minutes which will give you a glimpse of this underground wonderland. On the tour you will explore the 2km cave network open to the public from well-lit walkways showcasing the beautiful dripstone formations. You will also visit the beautiful Crystal Palace and Madonna Room and find out how the caves came by their name, as there is a large stalactite that, when struck, makes a sound that resonates even beyond the cave walls.
The caves have further historical significance in that prehistoric items and artefacts dating back to the Stone Age have been found here. These are now housed inside the nearby Museum of Man which is also worth a visit.
If you stay in one of the rustic rondavels on the farm you can also hike in the surrounding mountains, which are part of the northern Drakensberg range and home to rare birds like the elusive blue swallow.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Echo Caves
Tel: +27 (0)13 238 0015
How to get here
The Echo Caves are 26km north of Ohrigstad, which is off the R36 en route to Hoedspruit. The caves are also close to the turnoff to the scenic R532 also known as the Panorama Route.
Best time to visit
The caves are open from 8.30am to 4.30pm every day of the week (on Sundays they close at 4pm)
Things to do
Ohrigstad Dam Nature Reserve, Blyde River Canyon, Drakensberg Mountains, Panorama Route, Gustav Klingbiel Nature Reserve.
Get around
There are numerous hiking trails in the area as this is part of the northern Drakensberg.
Where to stay
Accommodation for up to 140 people is available at the caves, including dormitory-style rooms and 11 chalets.
What to eat
There are restaurants at nearby Ohrigstad or else bring a picnic basket. The accommodation is self-catering.
Best buys
Local arts and crafts at Ohrigstad.
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