The Naracoorte Caves
World Heritage listed, the Naracoorte Caves comprise 28 caves with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. It is one of the world’s most important fossil sites. Over millennia, ninety-three different species of mammals, reptiles and birds fell into cave pits allowing palaeontologists to learn more about the giant marsupials and creatures that once roamed Australia. With an excellent on-site museum, different show caves and adventure tours, the cool temperatures make the cave especially inviting during the hot summer months. Admire the cave formations, learn about fascinating creatures, and illuminate the dark caverns of Australia’s pre-history.
Length of Trip : Budget a half day to explore the caves.
Cost :
Entry to the national park and car parking is free. Tour fees apply, click here for the latest prices.
Best time to go : Open year round, except Christmas Day and catastrophic fire days (hot summer days when bush fires are anticipated)
Wheelchair friendly : Not in the caves themselves. Above ground, the national park does have several facilities accessible by wheelchair, including the Wonambi Fossil Centre and Bat Observation Centre. The Caves Café, Wirreanda Bunkhouse and campground also have wheelchair accessible facilities.
Family friendly : Yes
Where to eat :
Open daily from 10am to 3pm, the Caves Café also serves hot food until 2pm.
Official Site :
http://www.naracoortecaves.sa.gov.au
Where to Stay :
There are basic accommodation options in the park, as well as hotels and motels in the town of Naracoorte.
Getting There :
The caves are located about a three-and-a-half hour drive from Adelaide, a few kilometres outside the town of the same name.
Note from Robin :
Check out the adventure caving option if you want to get your hands (and clothes) more dirty. The Stick Tomato Cave and especially the Alexandra Cave are the two most visited caves in the park. Inside the Wonambi Fossil Centre, check out the giant marsupials and other animals recreated with animatronics, giving us a glimpse at what it would have been like to stumble across the region 200,000 years ago.
Pool of Reflection
