Pinnacle Point Mountain

Address: Pinnacle Point area, near Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa

Pinnacle Point is a coastal archaeological complex on the southern Cape coast near Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, known for Middle Stone Age cave and rock-shelter sites. Excavations have recovered shellfish remains, ochre, microlithic tools and other evidence that document early modern human behaviour.

Scientific work at sites such as PP13B and PP5-6 has produced dates indicating human occupation and systematic coastal resource use during the Middle Stone Age, including layers around 164,000 years ago. The discoveries have been important for understanding early symbolic behaviour, technology and coastal adaptation by Homo sapiens.

The archaeological sites sit on rugged sea cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean; much of the archaeological zone is protected and not open for casual exploration, while nearby interpretation and guided programmes provide visitor information.

• Early coastal occupation: Archaeological layers at the site complex include occupations dated to around 164,000 years ago, providing some of the earliest evidence of coastal resource use by modern humans.
• Access and protection: Many of the archaeological deposits are protected and access to sensitive excavation areas is restricted; guided visits and an interpretive centre in the broader area provide context for the finds.

What to See#

• Key excavation sites: PP13B and PP5-6 are among the principal excavated rock-shelter sites where archaeological layers preserved marine shells, ochre and stone tools.
• Cliffs and shore: Coastal cliff and shoreline exposures that provide the context for shellfish gathering and other marine resource use documented at the site complex.

Pinnacle Point and its archaeological areas are near Mossel Bay on the Garden Route. From Mossel Bay follow local signs to the Pinnacle Point road and the coastal access points. Local guides and heritage centres in Mossel Bay can arrange site visits.

• If interested in archaeology, read summaries of the Pinnacle Point sequence beforehand-the site's shell middens were instrumental in dating modern human behaviour.
• Combine a coastal hike with a visit to nearby Mossel Bay to see both the archaeological sites and local maritime history.
• Book a local guide who can show the preserved middens and explain how sea-level changes affect the landscape.