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Blombos Cave in South Africa is an important archaeological site that provides evidence of early human life. Located near Still Bay, the cave contains artefacts like engraved ochre, tools, and shell beads that date back over 70,000 years. These discoveries show that early humans had advanced skills and symbolic thinking. The cave is not open to the public, but visitors can learn about its history at local museums. The surrounding area has coastal attractions, nature reserves, and historical sites. This guide will help you plan your visit and understand the significance of this ancient site.
Location
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Blombos caves in South Africa are situated within the Blombos Private Nature Reserve, which is about 34.5 metres above sea level and approximately 100 metres from the current shoreline of the Indian Ocean. The nearest town is Still Bay, located roughly 25 km to the east, while Cape Town lies about 300 km to the west. The cave is nestled in a cliff composed of calcified sediments, believed to have formed between the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs.
How To Reach
Photo: BlogDeBanderas / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Blombos Cave is by flying into Cape Town International Airport, the nearest major airport, located about 300 km west of the site. Several international and domestic airlines operate regular flights to and from Cape Town.
By Bus: From Cape Town, you can take a bus or shuttle service to Still Bay, approximately 25 km east of Blombos Cave. Several private companies offer these services, and the journey typically takes around four to five hours, depending on the route and stops.
By Rail: There are no direct rail services to Still Bay or Blombos Cave. The South African rail network primarily connects major cities, so travelling by train to this specific region is not a feasible option.
Places To Visit In And Around Blombos Cave
Discover the rich archaeological history and natural beauty surrounding this ancient cave.
1. Still Bay
Photo: Ppotgiet / Wikimedia Commons
Still Bay, also known as “the Bay of Sleeping Beauty,” is a small town along the southern coast of South Africa. It has long sandy beaches where people can swim, fish, or relax. The Goukou River flows into the ocean here, making it a good spot for canoeing and boating. The area has rock pools where children can find small sea creatures. Still, Bay is known for its ancient fish traps made by the Khoisan people, showing how early humans caught fish using stone walls. These traps are an important part of South Africa’s history.
Timings: Year-round
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
2. Inverroche Distillery
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Inverroche Distillery is well known for making gin using local plants called fynbos. These plants grow only in South Africa, giving the gin a unique flavour. The distillery is in a peaceful area near Still Bay and attracts visitors who want to learn about the process of making spirits. The guided tours explain how botanicals are used in the production, and visitors can taste different gin varieties. Some people also participate in special workshops where they make their small batch of gin. This place is important because it promotes local ingredients and traditions while creating jobs for the community.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Skulpiesbaai Nature Reserve
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Skulpiesbaai Nature Reserve is a coastal area with walking trails and open spaces where people can see different birds, small animals, and marine life. The coastline has rocky sections where waves crash against the shore, creating an interesting place to walk and explore. Fishermen often visit to catch fish from the rocks. People also come here to see the ancient fish traps nearby, which show how early humans worked with nature to catch food. The area is part of a larger conservation effort to protect the environment, making it an important place for local wildlife.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
4. Jongensfontein
Photo: TheOtherKev / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Jongensfontein is a small seaside village near Still Bay. It is known for its natural tidal pools, where people can swim safely even when the ocean is rough. These pools fill with seawater and attract families with young children. The area has strong waves, making it popular with surfers. Some locals also enjoy fishing along the rocky shore. The coastline has caves and interesting rock formations that show how the land has changed over thousands of years. Jongensfontein has been an important holiday spot for families to visit for generations, keeping traditions alive.
Timings: Year-round
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
5. Geelkrans Nature Reserve
Photo: Claudia14 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Geelkrans Nature Reserve is an area with walking paths along the coast. The paths go through different vegetation types, including fynbos, which are unique to this region. The cliffs provide a high viewpoint where people can look over the ocean and sometimes see whales and dolphins. The reserve is named after its yellow-coloured rock formations, which have been shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Scientists study this area to learn about coastal erosion and how plants adapt to harsh conditions. It is a place where people can walk and enjoy the outdoors while learning about nature.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Where To Stay
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Accommodation options near Blombos Cave range from guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts to self-catering cottages. In Still Bay, establishments like Chilli Moon B&B and Osler Place offer comfortable stays with easy access to local attractions. For a more secluded experience, consider booking a cottage in the surrounding countryside, which provides a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Where To Eat
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Dining options in the vicinity include a variety of eateries catering to different tastes. The Die Seekombuis Stilbaai in Still Bay offers seafood dishes with ocean views, while the Inverroche Distillery serves light meals alongside their signature gins. For a casual dining experience, the On the Rocks Steakhouse & Seafood Restaurant provides a range of grilled specialities in a relaxed setting.
Best Time To Visit
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The ideal time to visit Blombos Cave and the surrounding areas is during the South African summer months, from November to March. During this period, the weather is warm and suitable for outdoor activities. However, it’s essential to check local access regulations and obtain necessary permissions before planning your visit, as Blombos Cave is a protected archaeological site and may not be open to the public without prior arrangement.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Blombos Cave and its surrounding attractions can vary in cost depending on accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities. On average, a mid-range budget traveller might spend approximately ZAR 1500-2000 ( ₹7500-10000) per day, covering accommodation, meals, and local transportation.
Tips For Travellers
- Access to Blombos Cave timings is restricted, and only researchers can enter. However, guided tours in Still Bay offer insights into the cave’s history.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as some trails near the site have uneven terrain.
- Carry sun protection, a hat, and enough water as the area can get hot.
- Most places accept card payments, but keeping some South African Rand (ZAR) in cash is helpful.
- As an archaeological site, Blombos Cave is protected. Avoid disturbing any artefacts or rock formations.
- Hotels and guesthouses in Still Bay get booked quickly during holidays. Reserve your stay in advance.
- You can take photos at Blombos Cave from a distance, as the site is not public. The nearby museums display artefacts from the cave.
The Blombos Cave in South Africa is one of the most significant archaeological sites, providing evidence of early human creativity and survival. While visitors cannot enter the cave, the nearby museums and coastal attractions offer plenty to explore. This destination is worth visiting if you’re interested in history, anthropology, or nature. Plan a trip with TripXL today and explore the fascinating past of early humans.
Cover Photo: Lenzatic / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
