Drakensberg Hidden Caves

The Drakensberg mountains contain thousands of sandstone shelters and caves, many of which served as ancestral homes for the San people. This selection features notable overnight shelters ranging from high-altitude summit caves to those hidden behind waterfalls like Ribbon Falls. These sites offer primitive accommodation for hikers and provide access to unique geological formations, natural rock pools at Marble Baths, and ancient rock art sites in the Cathedral Peak and Injasuti regions.

Sentinal Caves

Located near Sentinel Peak and the Chain Ladders, these shelters provide a high-altitude resting point with views extending into the Maloti Mountains.

Injasuti Summit Cave

A high-altitude shelter situated near the summit of the Injasuti Triplets, offering views across the central Drakensberg escarpment.

Twins Cave

Situated near the Eastern Buttress, this cave provides shelter for hikers traversing the Amphitheatre and offers views of the Inner and Outer Tower.

Marble Baths Cave

Located in the Injasuti area, this cave is situated adjacent to natural white sandstone rock pools and water slides.

iNkosazana Cave

A sandstone shelter in the Monk's Cowl area, located near the iNkosazana River on the approach to the escarpment.

Didima Cave

A large sandstone shelter in the Cathedral Peak area, historically significant for its collection of San rock art.

Ribbon Falls Cave

A deep sandstone overhang located directly behind a seasonal waterfall in the Cathedral Peak valley.

Sleeping Beauty Cave

Located in the Garden Castle region, this shelter is named after the mountain silhouette above it and is accessible via a moderate uphill trail.

Sherman's Cave

An accessible sandstone shelter in the Cathedral Peak area, frequently used for overnight stays due to its level floor.

Zulu Cave

A large, deep cave in the Monk's Cowl wilderness area, often used as a base for exploring the surrounding peaks.

Grindstone Cave

A shelter in the Injasuti valley reached via a forest path, featuring evidence of historical use for grinding grain.

Pillar Cave

A prominent shelter in the Garden Castle area, characterized by a large natural rock column supporting its roof.

Siphongweni Cave

A southern Drakensberg shelter known for its well-preserved San rock paintings depicting traditional hunting scenes.

Shower Cave

Located in the Injasuti area, this cave features a small perennial waterfall at its entrance.

Mahai Cave

A small sandstone overhang located near the Mahai River in Royal Natal National Park, accessible via a short walk from the main campsite.