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Caving Adventure - Namibia

A day of caving near Windhoek, Namibia

The Arnhem cave is the largest in Namibia with over 4500 meters of passages and depths of up to 110 meters. Previously the cave was mined for bat guano which was used for fertiliser and dynamite! Although this enterprise ended in the 1930's, it is estimated that there is still over 15 000 tons of guano remaining in the cave.

The caves are made up of layers of limestone and dolomite, sandwiched between quartzite and shale. They are home to six species of bats including two kinds of leaf nosed bats, the giant leaf nosed being the largest insect eating bat in the world, the long fingered bat, horseshoe bats and Egyptian slit faced bats. Other critters that you might meet in the cave system are shrews, beetle spiders, stingless scorpions, numerous species of beetle and water invertebrates.

The cave is situated on the edge of the Kalahari Desert in Namibia, about 150 km from Windhoek and the surrounding scenery is spectacular. On arrival at the caves, you are presented with torches and all other necessary equipment for the excursion. There will also be a brief safety talk before you descend into the caves with an experienced guide.

The first 2 - 3 hours of the day are spent leisurely exploring the first two sections of the caves, weaving your way through a myriad of passages. After you emerge from the darkness, it is off to the Farmhouse to enjoy an excellent home-cooked lunch under the shaded lapa and drink a few beers to wash away the dust. Then, there is the chance to have a swim in the pool before heading back to Windhoek.

Bring a camera, film, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear and a change of clothes if you wish. All the equipment needed for the caving and food and drink will be provided. At the end of the day you will be dropped of at your lodge in Windhoek.