Journey Into The Earth
where no modern human has stood before
EARTHBOX:
The Idea
The idea for EARTHBOX originated from a simple question. What if we could create an underground immersive and sensory experience that gives visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of direct physical contact with ancient raw earth?
What started as a seemingly impossible dream was transformed into a unique attraction comprising a large underground chamber where visitors were surrounded by ancient raw earth walls, a sculpted undulating landscape (created with the excavated earth), and a welcome pavilion.
The Making Of:
Engineering and Design
When EARTHBOX was conceived, the question was whether carving a subterranean chamber in raw earth could even be possible.
Work began in the summer of February 2023, but the rains came early in March threatening to derail the construction of EARTHBOX. More rain fell in the area in between March and August 2023 than the average of the last 100 years.
Read more about the making of EARTHBOX below and watch our documentary for a peek behind the scenes of what it took to create this unique experience of the Earth – a first of its kind globally.
The Experience
Inviting curiosity and a sense of wonder, EARTHBOX offered a non-digital respite from noise & distraction, and an opportunity to explore, discover & reflect. Visitors were greeted by Earth Guardians at the welcome pavilion and invited to slow down and meander barefoot along earthen pathways in the landscape. They could visit the chamber on their own or choose to be guided by either a grounding meditation or geological audio tour. The space was also used to host community activities, such as clay therapy workshops, yoga, and dance as well as unique events including an exclusive chef series, music performances, and private dinners.
Chef Series
The once off curated dining experiences were hosted by SA’s leading & emerging chefs including Chef Amori from Upper Kloof, John Joseph, Shaun Scrooby from VUUR and Vusi Ndlovu from EDGE.
Sunday Sessions
Inspiring local artists performed every first Sunday of the month. Artists included: Zimbini, Thanda Choir, Odwa Bongo, Skai Lounge, Zolani, Muneyi and Xhanti Nokwali
Audio Tour Experience
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Body and Mind
Connecting humans to the deepest pre-historical layers of the past had a profound effect on many and EARTHBOX was a magnet for soulful events. The grounding atmosphere and stillness made it a cool respite for daily yoga and pilates classes, dances and sound baths. The open landscape above earth was also the perfect spot for silent disco’s and solstice gatherings. Whether by rising sun or full moon, the amphitheatre of the surrounding mountains was a dramatic backdrop against which to enter the earth.
Workshops
During the winter season of EARTHBOX, a programme of events celebrated the elements and the chance to commune. From watercolour and journalling to the highly popular Immersive Clay Workshops with Nammu, the EARTHBOX calendar was filled with activities and experiences that delighted and drew in visitors.
Kids
Little ones could explore the underground chamber from 9am-10am daily, learn about the earth by listening to the Kids Audio and roam around the landscape. The tractor ride to and from EARTHBOX was a hit with children of all ages. Partnerships with Play by Nature and Imibala resulted in a series of interactive tactile workshops which gave young visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the earthy world.
