Yellowwood Cave

Location:

Loteni Wilderness Area, Northern Drakensberg. Yellowwood cave is set against a rock band above the river bank. After crossing the river about 300 metres downstream, the path meanders through a beautiful riverine forest as it makes its way up to the cave.  The cave is about 5 km from Sime's Cottage and the Loteni campsite.

GPS Coordinates: WGS 84

S29°24.927 E29°28.555 at 1 823 metres (Landlubbers)

Description:

Yellowwood Cave is a long, narrow overhang located above the river bank at a safe height above the river. However, because of its narrowness and the drips that run over the lip of the cave, it can be quite muddy at the height of the wet season and the river crossing may also become dangerous. There are several level sleeping areas and lots of large rocks to use for seating, but these are quite dusty (or muddy in summer).

Comfort:  3/5

The cave is reasonably comfortable, although it is a bit dusty.

Water:  5/5

The main river below the cave is fairly accessible via several short tracks. There is a small waterfall about 50 metres further up the path that seems to provide reliable water even in winter.

Pools:  4/5

There are several small pools within easy reach of the cave.

Shelter:  2/5

Because of the narrow overhang the cave is not well-protected from driving rain, although the forest reduces the impact of the wind.

Outlook:  3/5

The forest restricts the view from the cave, but further upstream the valley opens up at the confluence of the two rivers and parts of the escarpment can be seen.

Overall Rating:  17/25

History:

The cave is named after the large yellowwood trees that grow in the forest in which it is located.

Last modified on 2011/11/10