The shadowy depths of the Naracoorte Caves National Park shelter a geologically rich area on the Limestone Coast. Check out some of the national park’s 28 protected caves and find an awe-inspiring fossil record that stretches across 500,000 years. Learn about Australia’s mysterious megafauna and the creatures that once roamed the ancient world. Spot fossil deposits on a guided tour and see the cave that protects thousands of bats.
Begin your visit at the Wonambi Fossil Center. This comprehensive educational resource interprets the fascinating geology of the caves, displaying some of the 130 species of animals that have been recorded in the area. Stroll along the walking trails that connect the network of World Heritage-listed caves.
Join a guided tour and learn about Victoria Fossil Cave, which was unearthed in 1969. Wander past stalactites and stalagmites as you journey toward the Fossil Chamber. Find out which animals left a fossilized story behind, as well as excavation techniques that have been used to retrace the fossils’ history. See complete skeletons of long-extinct megafauna, such as the marsupial lion.
Visit the Alexandra Cave, which has allowed paleontologists to peer into the past since 1908. Learn about how caves are formed on the Limestone Coast and spot intriguing flowstone. You can visit nearby Wet Cave without a guide or explore the Bat Observation Center outside of Blanche Cave. Don’t miss the chance to go on a cave adventure and clamber through craggy caverns with a rope and harness.
Re-energize at the Caves Café and grab a quick meal or a refreshing drink. Alternatively, bring some food to enjoy at the on-site picnic grounds.
Naracoorte Caves National Park is a little over an hour’s drive from Mount Gambier. Choose from individual caving adventures or take advantage of a combination deal that includes Wonambi Fossil Center entry, cave exploration and bat observation. Entry to the national park and parking are both free. The caves are open daily, except for Christmas Day.
