Klipgat cave
The Klipgat caves were formed over millions of years. This is through the erosion caused by underwater aquifers. The limestone caves were exposed by changing sea levels. They were then inhabited by Stone Age people later known as the Khoi Khoi. There is evidence of this habitation in the form of implements and human bones which were found dating back 70,000 years. The cave is named after a window-like opening from which you can enjoy spectacular views of the bay. There are two chambers within the cave. The main area has a circular boardwalk around the excavation site. It is better to visit the site at low tide.
Three things made the Klipgat Cave perfect for early human habitation: there was masses of shelter in the cave, there was a lot of fresh water and a constant food source available. These findings are some of the oldest remains of modern homo sapiens showing that modern humans originated in Africa over 200 000 years ago
Excavations done in 1969 unearthed 2000-year-old pottery, stone and bone artefacts. Also the remains of shellfish, fish and other animals that the Khoikhoi bushman had eaten and thrown away the bones. Bones from sheep were also found, this shows that these people were herding animals. There was also evidence that they had dogs. The Khoi Khoi people thrived in the area until the 18th century
To get there from Gansbaai harbour it is a 7 kilometres walk. You can however approach it from Walker Bay Nature Reserve via Hermanus. There is still a bit of climbing to do to get to the cave.
. Klipgat Cave is one of the most important historical sites in the Western Cape of World Heritage significance.
