The echoing flutter of a bat’s wings. The knowledge that tonnes of rock hang suspended above your head. In short, an otherworldly experience in the Western Cape’s foremost cave network.

It’s safe to say those with claustrophobia should stay away. Delving deep underground, the caves on the Klein Karoo’s beautiful Cango Valley stagger over multiple levels.

Grand chambers filled with spectacular stalagmite and stalactite formations merge with ‘gardens’ of glittering naturally-forming crystals. They lead to spaces known as the coffin, post box, and chimney. Here crawling is essential to squeeze through narrow gaps back to the surface.