Location:
Mnweni Reservation, northern Drakensberg escarpment. The cave is slightly below the lip of the escarpment, providing spectacular views of the Mnweni Cutback, but it is not for the faint-hearted. The 10-metre drop down to the cave is reasonably easy and safe, but finding the top of this gully may prove difficult in mist even though it is marked with cairns. The nearest pass to the cave is Mnweni Pass. The route to this pass from below the escarpment involves a very long walk through the highly populated Mnweni location.
Warning: This cave is unsuitable for young or poorly supervised children. There is a vertical drop of several hundred metres down the escarpment in front of the cave. Take care, especially in wet or windy conditions, and snow!
GPS Coordinates: WGS 84
Unknown
Description:
Ledges Cave is long and narrow, but in fair weather it provides adequate accommodation for 12 people.
Comfort: 3/5
There are several level spots in the cave, with boulders providing a little privacy and shelter, but don’t expect to be comfortable in foul weather.
Water: 3/5
There is a small stream (the source of the mighty Orange River) on the escarpment above the cave. However, in winter this is often frozen over and finding running water may involve a long walk. Fortunately the escarpment above the cave is relatively flat.
Pools: 0/5
There are no good pools within easy walking distance of the cave.
Shelter: 2/5
Because of its location at the edge of the escarpment, this cave is very exposed and provides inadequate shelter during bad or windy weather. There is the added worry of lightning in summer.
Outlook: 5/5
The cave is east-facing and offers spectacular views across the entrance to the Mnweni Cutback to the escarpment on the other side.
Overall Rating: 13/25
History:
Unknown