SASA - South African Spelaeological Association

South African Spelaeological Association

About

Groups

Caves

Legends

Publications

Contact

SOUTH AFRICAN

SPELAEOLOGICAL ASSC.

www.SASA.caves.org.za

CAVES &

CAVING IN

SOUTH AFRICA

interested in the amazing world beneath your feet as a tourist, a cave explorer or cave enthusiast, this is where your journey begins. With very knowledgeable and experienced cavers actively participating in cave exploration activities, you will soon be able to explore a world seldom seen by others.

Explore Our Caves

Join a Caving Group

Exploration

Discover and map new cave systems across Southern Africa. Our members have documented over 2,100 caves and continue to push the boundaries of exploration.

ABOUT US

The South African Spelaeological Association (SASA) is the central organization for caving in Southern Africa. Since our founding in 1954, we have been at the forefront of cave exploration, scientific research, and conservation. Our members are dedicated to discovering, mapping, and protecting the remarkable underground ecosystems of our region.

SASA serves as the umbrella organization for three regional caving groups: the Speleological Exploration Club (SEC) in Gauteng, the Cape Peninsula Spelaeological Society (CPSS) in the Western Cape, and the Potch Potholers (PPH) in the North West Province.

1954

Founded

2,100+

Caves

Documented

300+

Active Members

Research &

Education

Advancing speleological science through systematic documentation, geological research, and paleontological discoveries. Our annual SASA Bulletin shares findings with the global caving community.

Countries

Covered

Conservation

Protecting fragile cave environments and their unique ecosystems. We work with SANParks and conservation authorities to preserve these natural wonders for future generations.

Join a SASA Caving Group

SEC - Speleological Exploration Club

Founded: 1954

Location: Gauteng

Website: www.sec-caving.co.za

About SEC

The Speleological Exploration Club is one of the

founding members of SASA, and has been at the

The forefront of cave exploration in Southern Africa

over 70 years, based in Gauteng, SEC members have

made some of the most significant cave discoveries

on the African continent

Major Discoveries

:-Dagonsbreath: World’s largest underground lake

:-Alocalypse: Southern Africa’s longest cave system

:-Rising Star Cave: Discovery site of Home naledi fossil

:-Mbobo Mikhulu: Mineralogically rich cave system

Activities

:-Monthly cave trips for all skill levels

:-SRT (Single Rope Technique) training.

:-Cave surveying and mapping expeditions.

:-Annual social events and AGM

How to Join

Membership is approved by the SEC after a certain

number of caves have been visited with Club members and satisfactory safe caving has been observed.

SASA comprises three regional caving clubs, each with its own character, activities, and areas of exploration. Whether you're in Gauteng, the Western Cape, or North West Province, there's a group near you.

CPSS - Cape Peninsula

Spelaeological Society

Founded: 1954

Location: Cape Town

Website: www.cpss.caves.org.za

About CPSS

The Cape Peninsula Speleological Society promotes

the safe exploration, recording, and conservation of

sandstone and limestone cave systems in the Western Cape.

CPSS is actively involved in Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR)

and maintains strong partnerships with conservation authorities.

Activities

:-Regular cave exploration meets (first weekend)

:-Vertical caving and SRT training

:-Cave conservation projects

:-Active Cave Research

How to Join

Prospective members must join the club on at least two meets

before applying for membership. Non- members are welcome

on selected meets

Membership Types

Honorary Life, Honorary, Ordinary, Joint,

Family, Junior, and Student

PPH - Speleological Exploration Club

Founded: 2000

Location: Potchefstroom

Website: www.pph.caves.org.za

About PPH

Although originating in Potchefstroom, Gauteng, the PPH is a community of very diverse cavers across most of Gauteng, and caving activities take place in areas stretching from the Cradle of Humankind into Potchefstroom and further. The PPH is better known for their work in Botswana over a period of 10 years, which changed the known karst landscape of Botswana forever. This was a government-sponsored expedition that started as an idea to promote tourism in Botswana but led to some huge breathtaking discoveries.

Activities

:- The PPH has a monthly meeting for all members and visitors from February to December.

:- Specialised exploration trips which might involve large amounts of digging and days away from family are indeed synonymous with the PPH and these trips are available to members only.

:- SRt or Single Rope Training is often organised in Potchefstroom, as many of the caves they explore are only accessible by rope.

:- Research partnerships with academic institutions and strong community and social events form a significant part of the PPH.

How to Join

PPH does require a few more trips with the club than other clubs, and this is purely because of the nature

of the caves that are often accessed.

SASA Legends: Pioneers of South African Caving

The South African Spelaeological Association was built on the dedication, passion, and pioneering spirit of remarkable individuals. These legends laid the groundwork for modern caving in South Africa, discovering new systems, advancing speleological science, and inspiring generations of cavers.

Mark Sefton

A long-serving passionate caver who served many years on the SASA committee. Mark was deeply involved in the Peter Verhulsel rescue affair, demonstrating the commitment and courage that defines the caving community.

Bob Howe Double

A long-serving passionate caver who served as SASA (Tvl) Chairman for a number of years. Bob's leadership helped shape the organization during critical growth periods. He now resides in the UK but remains connected to the South African caving community.

Jacques Martini

A founding member of SASA, Jacques Martini made significant contributions to mapping and surveying caves throughout South Africa. His meticulous work established the standards for cave documentation that SASA continues to follow today.

Colin Redmayne-Smith

SASA (Tvl) Chairman for many years, Colin was instrumental in organizing the landmark SWEX 86 and SWEX 87 expeditions. His vision and organizational skills led to some of the most significant cave discoveries in Southern African history.

Roger Ellis

Often described as the "Encyclopedia of Southern African Caving," Roger has a legendary history of discovering record-breaking caves. He remains an active caver within SASA, SEC, and PPH, continuing to explore and mentor new generations of cavers.

Tourist Caves of Southern Africa

From the world-famous Cango Caves to remote wilderness systems, Southern Africa is home to some of the most spectacular limestone and dolomite caves on Earth. Whether you're a tourist seeking a guided tour or an experienced caver looking for your next expedition, this is your gateway to the underground.

Publications & Resources

The SASA Bulletin: 70 Years of Speleological Research

Since 1956, the SASA Bulletin has been the premier publication for cave exploration, research, and documentation in Southern Africa. Published annually, the Bulletin features articles, photographs, cave surveys, and scientific findings from SASA members and the broader speleological community.

Current Issue

SASA Bulletin Volume 47 (2025)

Published November 2025

DOWNLOAD

Archive: Access past bulletins dating back to 1956 - contact us for more information