Tucked within the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve in Gauteng lies a secret most visitors don’t expect: one of South Africa’s largest and most active caves, quietly alive with mineral formations that continue to grow millennia after their birth. The Bothongo WonderCave may not make every mainstream bucket list — but it should.
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Carved from dolomitic limestone over millions of years, this vast chamber is not only the third-largest cave in the country but also the largest living cave in South Africa, meaning its stalactites and stalagmites are still slowly forming today. It’s a natural time capsule and a surreal escape from the surface world.
Getting there—and down there
The adventure begins with a 22-metre descent via 87 steep steps, angled at 45 degrees. Then comes a short elevator ride that drops you a further 18 metres below ground. This two-stage entry may sound like something out of an action film, but it’s all part of the draw and surprisingly accessible for most age groups.
What you’ll see inside
Guided tours (roughly 45 minutes each) are the only way to explore the cave, and rightly so—this fragile environment is carefully preserved. Friendly guides walk you through a softly lit subterranean world of towering rock sculptures, glittering crystal formations, and limestone curtains shaped by centuries of dripping water.
The cave was once mined for limestone but has since been reclaimed as a natural heritage site. You’ll hear the story of that transformation and learn about the cave’s slow-moving evolution, which still continues today. In fact, this ongoing geological activity makes the WonderCave a rare example of a living cave system accessible to the public.
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Know before you go
- Wear sensible shoes: The cave floor is uneven and can be slippery.
- Photography is welcome, but flash may be restricted to protect the delicate ecosystem.
- Health note: Like many caves, WonderCave may contain airborne fungal spores. People with respiratory conditions should take extra precautions.
Make a day of it
Picture sponspored by The Platinum Club
Your WonderCave ticket includes access to the larger Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, where self-drive safaris offer glimpses of rhino, lion, and other iconic African species.
On Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, time your visit to catch the predator feeding session at 13:00—a popular highlight for families and photographers.
Whether you’re a geology geek, an underground explorer at heart, or just in search of something different in Gauteng, the WonderCave offers a unique blend of education, beauty, and quiet adventure.
Getting there: Bothongo WonderCave is located within the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, about an hour from Johannesburg.
Tour Times: Weekdays 09:00–16:00; Weekends & Public Holidays 09:00–17:00
More info: www.rhinolion.co.za | @rhinolionnature on Instagram and Facebook
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