Boomslang Cave South Entrance

Crawling through the narrow passage of Boomslang Cave, did you ever imagine you’d be on such an adventure? Boomslang Cave, tucked away above Kalk Bay, is one of Cape Town’s more adventurous and accessible caves. This hike, a thrilling experience for any bucket list, is perfect for families, novice hikers, or anyone seeking a unique Cape Town experience. The roughly 4km hike takes about two to three hours, depending on your pace and how long you explore inside Boomslang Cave. The trail begins near Echo Valley on Boyes Drive. You can drive or take the train to Kalk Bay Station and walk up Boyes Drive to the Echo Valley sign. The path is relatively easy to follow. You’ll climb for about an hour through Echo Valley before reaching Boomslang Cave. The real adventure begins at the cave entrance. Prepare to get down on your hands and knees. Proper hiking attire is essential. Leave the miniskirts and white pants at home. Inside, you’ll shuffle and navigate through tighter spaces before the cave opens into a larger chamber. A headlamp or torch is helpful, as it can get quite dark within the labyrinth of tunnels. Once you emerge from the other side of Boomslang Cave, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view. The vista overlooks the Noordhoek valley and the stunning False Bay Coastline. Even though the Boomslang Cave hike is relatively short and easy, good hiking shoes are a must. Don’t forget water, sunblock, a hat, and a warm layer. Cape Town’s weather can be unpredictable. Boomslang Cave is also a fantastic spot for sunrise and sunset hikes. If you’re planning a sunrise or sunset adventure, bring a torch or headlamp to navigate the trail safely in the dark. Remember, there’s a colony of bats inside. Try to keep the noise down and avoid shining lights directly on them so they aren’t disturbed. Take in the quiet squeak of the bats and the lichen lining the cave walls. Leave Boomslang Cave as you found it. A natural wonder like this is best enjoyed without adding graffiti.