Sudwala Caves | Nelspruit

The Sudwala Caves, located in Mpumalanga, South Africa, are among the oldest known caves globally, formed approximately 240 million years ago within Precambrian dolomite rock dating back about 3.8 billion years.

Geological Features

These caves are renowned for their impressive speleothems (cave formations), including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Notable formations within the caves have been given descriptive names such as:

The Screaming Monster: A stalactite and stalagmite that have joined to form a column estimated to be 200 million years old.

Samson's Pillar: A massive columnar structure.

The Lowveld Rocket: A slender, elongated stalagmite resembling a rocket.

Additionally, the caves house microbial fossils of cyanobacteria known as collenia, dating back approximately 2 billion years.

Tours and Activities

Visitors can explore the caves through guided tours:

Standard Tour: A one-hour guided walk covering about 600 meters into the cave system, showcasing various geological formations.

Crystal Tour: A more adventurous six-hour excursion that delves deeper into the cave system, reaching a chamber adorned with aragonite crystals. This tour requires a reasonable level of fitness and involves navigating narrow passages.

Visitor Information

Operating Hours: The caves are open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Admission Fees: As of the latest available information, entrance fees are R130 for adults, R110 for pensioners, R65 for children, and free for kids under 4.

Location: Situated near the town of Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit), the caves are accessible via the N4 and R539 roads. Clear signage directs visitors to the site.

Additional Attractions

Adjacent to the caves, visitors can enjoy:

Dinosaur Park: A park featuring life-sized dinosaur models, offering an educational experience for children and adults alike.

Fish Spa: A facility where visitors can experience a unique pedicure from Garra rufa fish.

The Sudwala Caves provide a fascinating journey into Earth's ancient history, appealing to geology enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those interested in natural history.