Jenolan Caves is a spectacular cave system located in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia. It is one of the oldest known open cave systems in the world, with some of the caves dating back 340 million years.
History
- Discovered by European settlers in 1838
- Named “Jenolan” in 1884, meaning “high mountain” in the local Aboriginal language
- Opened for tourism in the 1880s
- Oldest tourist cave system in Australia
Geological Significance
- Formed in Silurian limestone
- Features a vast network of multi-level passages and chambers
- Home to numerous underground rivers and pools
- Contains a wide variety of cave formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, and cave coral
Cave Tours
- Lucas Cave: Most popular tour, featuring the massive Cathedral Chamber
- Imperial Cave: Easiest tour, suitable for all ages and fitness levels
- Chifley Cave: First cave to be lit by electric light in 1880
- Orient Cave: Known for its delicate and intricate formations
- River Cave: Features an underground river and palaeontological sites
- Temple of Baal Cave: Home to the 9-metre tall “Angel’s Wing” formation
- Ribbon Cave: Small but spectacular cave with delicate crystal formations
Adventure Caving
For more adventurous visitors, Jenolan Caves offers off-track adventure caving experiences:
- Plughole Adventure: 2-hour introductory adventure caving experience
- Extended Adventure Caving: Full-day or multi-day caving expeditions
Above Ground Activities
- Bush Walks: Several walking tracks around the caves complex
- Blue Lake: A beautiful man-made lake with bright blue water
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to see native animals like kangaroos and platypus
Visitor Information
- Location: 4655 Jenolan Caves Road, Jenolan Caves NSW 2790
- Open: Daily (except Christmas Day)
- Cave tours operate regularly throughout the day
- Advance booking recommended, especially during peak seasons
Accommodation
- Caves House: Historic guesthouse built in 1897
- Mountain Lodge: Budget accommodation option
- Gatehouse: Self-contained cottage
Getting There
- Approximately 3 hours drive from Sydney
- Accessible by car or organized tour
- Winding mountain roads, so allow plenty of time for the journey
Best Time to Visit
- The caves maintain a constant temperature of about 15°C year-round
- Above ground, spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for exploring
Jenolan Caves offers a unique blend of natural wonder, geological history, and adventure. Whether you’re interested in casual sightseeing or more adventurous caving experiences, Jenolan Caves provides an unforgettable journey into an underground world of stunning beauty and ancient history.
Related: Blue Mountains, Blue Mountains National Park, Geology of Australia, Australian Tourist Attractions, Nature, Adventure Activities in NSW