A hidden gem and only reachable via the railway line:
Within a 50 minutes drive from Mossel Bay, so perfect for a day-trip, you will reach Wilderness with its endless beaches and the Touw River where you can canoeing and fishing. But that’s not all! Hidden on the seaside cliffs close to the Kaaiman’s River Mouth, there is the “Kaaimans Grotto”, now only reachable via the old Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe railway line, which is not in use anymore because of large sections of the track are still covered by rubble and soil from the landslide in 2006.
At the westerly end of Wilderness there is a parking area where you can leave your car. Above there is the railway line; follow it leaving Wilderness behind. After about 700 metres and passing the first tunnel, you’ll reach the “Kaaimans Grotto”, in the past a very popular restaurant only reachable via train, now a place of eccentric artwork and pilgrimage run by Clifford and friends who love to show you around. The cave itself is not supplied with electricity, but equipped with fresh water, toilet facilities, cooking facilities and a wooden deck with unbeatable views. The cave also offers accommodation for up to 14 people – for the courageous ones.
Keep moving along the railway line in westerly directions you’ll reach a bridge crossing the Kaaimans River mouth. Further on there are two more tunnels and another bridge before you’ll reach Victoria Bay, famous for swimming and surfing.
The whole distance from the parking area in Wilderness to Victoria Bay is about 2,33 kilometres. Take a lunch with you and have it on your way back from Victoria Beach at the Kaaimans Grotto, enjoying the view – and please don’t forget to leave a small contribution behind for using their deck, it is much appreciated!
