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The nearby town of Oudtshoorn is famous for the farming of ostriches

These caves were the first tourist attraction in South Africa to enjoy formal protection after the governor of the Cape, Lord Charles Somerset, passed legislation as far back as 1820 to stop visitors from damaging or removing the incredible stalagmites and stalactites that can be found here.

Only a portion of this limestone wonderland is open to the public, and to protect the formations, only limited numbers of people are allowed into the cave at one time, so booking is essential.

Other facilities at the caves include a restaurant featuring an ostrich menu, a curio shop and an excellent interpretive centre that puts into perspective the immense timescale that created this beautiful cave system.

Feature image courtesy of Jorge Aguayo