North Cave
The North Cave is located along the Garden Route coastline near the Storms River Mouth area, within the rugged cliffs and coastal landscapes of the Tsitsikamma region. The cave is situated close to the shoreline and surrounded by indigenous coastal forest, rocky outcrops, and steep valleys that descend toward the Indian Ocean. Its sheltered position within the cliff face provides protection from wind and weather, while its proximity to both marine and terrestrial ecosystems has provided easy access to a variety of natural resources for early inhabitants.
The cave is archaeologically significant due to the presence of material remains linked to the San and Khoikhoi people who once occupied the region. Surface findings have revealed stone tools and other evidence of early human activity, indicating that the cave was used either as a shelter or activity site. These archaeological remains provided valuable information about the lifeways, technologies, and survival strategies of the indigenous populations who lived along the southern Cape coast. The presence of tools and cultural deposits help understand how these communities utilised local resources, including marine food sources such as shellfish and fish, as well as plants and animals from the surrounding forests. The site is therefore an important heritage resource that preserves evidence of early indigenous presence and cultural history of the Garden Route area.
GPS Waypoints: 34°01'07.5"S 23°54'15.3"E