WonderCave
Respect. Protect.
Discover the Hidden Wonder Beneath the Earth
Tucked away in the heart of the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve lies a true natural gem—the spectacular Bothongo WonderCave. Just a short drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, this breathtaking underground world is easily accessible through the main entrance of the reserve and can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure.
Step Back in Time
First discovered by Italian miners in 1898, the WonderCave holds fascinating stories of early mining days. Only about 15% of the cave’s calcite formations were ever extracted—heated in a hand-built oven at 1,100°C to create powder used for cement, toothpaste, and even gold extraction. Mining stopped in 1902, leaving behind one of nature’s finest masterpieces.
Today, this awe-inspiring space stands as South Africa’s third-largest cave chamber—after the famous Cango and Sudwala Caves. But many who visit say it’s the most enchanting.
Features
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Natural Wonder 5-10 million years old
- No crawling necessary
- Cave Pearls
- Formations up to 15m
- Rim Stone pool
- Stalactites & Stalagmites
- Conducted tours every two hours
- Entry by steep staircase & elevator
- Picnic area, Kiosk
Your Descent into Wonder
The journey begins with a 45-degree descent down 87 stairs, taking you 22 metres below the surface. From there, a smooth elevator ride drops you another 18 metres into the cool, majestic stillness of the cave. Towering formations, sparkling stalactites, and crystal-like structures await—unchanged for millions of years.
An Unforgettable Experience
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about South Africa’s hidden treasures, the Bothongo WonderCave promises a truly unforgettable experience for all ages.
Health & Safety Notice: Risk of Histoplasmosis
Visitors to the Bothongo WonderCave are advised of a potential health risk associated with Histoplasmosis—a fungal infection that may affect the lungs. This condition is caused by inhaling spores of the Histoplasma fungus, which can thrive in areas where bat or bird droppings are present, such as caves.
Terms and Conditions apply. Please click here to view them.