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Step back in time as you set foot into the depths of the best prehistoric caves in the world. Most prehistoric caves have only been explored recently by explorers and archaeologists worldwide. These natural wonders served as shelters for early humans and vibrant canvases for their artistic expressions. Each stone and corner narrates a story of survival, offering an unparalleled glimpse into humankind’s past. These enchanting caves tell us about our past and explain how they have seen the world evolve over millennia. Read further to learn more about each of the top 10 Prehistoric Caves in the world.
Top 10 Prehistoric Caves In The World
Explore all the types of prehistoric caves in the world. Caves are an artistic house of early talent that have stayed on this planet for generations.
1. Mammoth Cave
Photo: Bpluke01 / Wikimedia Commons
Mammoth Cave National Park is located in south-central Kentucky, USA. It is the longest-known cave system in the world and one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America. There are claims that several mysterious creatures inhabit the upper regions of the cave, with some newspapers reporting sightings of “monsters.” However, these are merely myths. Despite these stories, the park remains a popular destination, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Year Discovered: Formally located in September 1900
Location: Kentucky, USA
Entry Fee: No entrance fee required
Best Time To Visit: December to February
2. Magura Cave
Photo: Vislupus / Wikimedia Commons
The Magura Cave, also known as the Rabisha Cave, is located in northwestern Bulgaria and is thought to have formed around 15 million years ago, marking it as an ancient and prehistoric site. Renowned for its exceptional prehistoric wall paintings from the Bronze Age, the cave draws many visitors. Guided tours provide insights into the cave’s rich history and the artistry of the ancient inhabitants. However, it’s important to note that some remarkable paintings may be temporarily off-limits for viewing due to ongoing conservation efforts to preserve this invaluable treasure for future generations.
Year Discovered: Archaeological studies are still ongoing
Location: Northeastern Bulgaria
Entry Fee: 5 Bulgarian Leva
Best Time To Visit: Summer months
3. Fumane Cave
Photo: Thilo Parg / Wikimedia Commons
In the picturesque Fumane Valley of Italy, this remarkable cave is situated in the beautiful Province of Verona. It is believed to have formed during the Neogene Period. It is vital in geological sciences and offers valuable insights into Earth’s history. Visitors can take an engaging guided tour in multiple languages, which comprehensively explores the caves, their intriguing artefacts, and the fascinating stories behind them. The site is open year-round, warmly welcoming visitors at their convenience to experience the natural wonders and rich heritage of this captivating location.
Year Discovered: 1884
Location: Verona, Italy
Entry Fee: 8 Euros
Best Time To Visit: during spring and autumn
4. Altamira Cave
Photo: MatthiasKabel / Wikimedia Commons
You’ll discover the fantastic prehistoric cave known as Altamira near the historic town of Santillana del Mar in Spain. Discovered in 1868 by Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, this cave is home to some of the most stunning Paleolithic cave paintings you’ll ever see. These beautiful images of animals were created using charcoal and other natural materials. It’s no wonder that UNESCO recognized Altamira Cave as a World Heritage Site in 1985. And in 2008, even more nearby caves were added to this special heritage list.
Year Discovered: 1868
Location: Santillana del Mar, Spain
Entry Fee: 3 euros
Best Time To Visit: This can be visited throughout the year
5. Sterkfontein Caves
Photo: Mike Peel / Wikimedia Commons
The Sterkfontein Caves, located in the Gauteng province of South Africa, are renowned for their significant contributions to paleoanthropology. Positioned approximately 40 kilometres northwest of Johannesburg, this site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In close proximity, the Robert Broom Museum showcases fossil discoveries and reconstructions of early life forms. The fossils unearthed within the caves have been dated to various geological periods, with remains of Australopithecus africanus, an early human species estimated to be between 2.6 and 2.0 million years old.
Year Discovered: 1936
Location: Gauteng, South Africa
Entry Fee: R 165
Best Time To Visit: April to September
6. Las Monedas Cave
Photo: Pylaryx / Wikimedia Commons
Las Monedas Cave, located in Puente Viesgo, Cantabria, Spain, is part of the Monte del Castillo complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008. The cave is celebrated for its remarkable geological formations and impressive Paleolithic cave art. Spanning approximately 800 meters in length, only 160 meters of the cave are open for public exploration. Visitors can enjoy guided tours year-round, which last about 45 minutes. The cave art is particularly intriguing due to its predominant depictions of horses and reindeer, a rarity among Cantabrian cave artwork.
Year Discovered: 1952
Location: Puente Viesgo, Cantabria, Spain
Entry Fee: 12 euros
Best Time To Visit: Open throughout the year
7. El Pendo Cave
Photo: Sautuola1880 / Wikimedia Commons
El Pendo Cave in the Camargo Valley, Cantabria, Spain, is a notable archaeological site recognised for its size and prehistoric art. Designated a World Heritage site in 2008, the cave has a continuous occupation record from at least 82,000 years ago to 1,500 BC. A highlight of this cave is the “Frieze of Paintings,” a 25-meter-long panel featuring around twenty figures, including a deer, a goat, and a horse, created with a contouring technique. The cave is open for guided tours throughout the year. It is an affordable and historically significant attraction, with tickets priced at 3 euros .
Year Discovered: 1878
Location: Cantabria, Spain
Entry Fee: 3 euros
Best Time To Visit: May to October
8. Udayagiri Caves
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons
The Udayagiri Caves are a significant archaeological site close to Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh, India. This prehistoric cave has been explored less than other well-known caves worldwide. These caves are renowned for their historical and cultural importance, housing some of the nation’s oldest surviving Hindu temples and artwork. There are 20 caves, mainly dedicated to Hinduism, with one specifically for Jainism. One of the most notable sculptures features Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) form, saving the earth goddess Bhudevi.
Year Discovered: 1870s
Location: Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
Entry Fee: INR 200
Best Time To Visit: October to March
9. Baradla-Domica Cave System
Photo: Jojo / Wikimedia Commons
The Baradla-Domica Cave System represents a significant underground water system along the Hungary-Slovakia border. It is part of the larger Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst region, renowned for its vast network of caves. In 1995, the complete Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst area, which encompasses the Baradla-Domica Cave System, was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its exceptional geological and biological attributes. These caves attract many visitors, who can take guided tours. Aggtelek National Park also provides a variety of hiking trails and chances to discover the caves.
Year Discovered: 1549
Location: Hungary-Slovakia border
Entry Fee: 2600 HUF
Best Time To Visit: May to August
10. Chauvet Cave
Photo: Inocybe / Wikimedia Commons
The Chauvet Cave, situated in the Ardeche region of southern France, is famous for its remarkably well-preserved prehistoric cave art and engravings. The cave has over 1,000 drawings and carvings, mainly featuring animals such as lions, mammoths, rhinoceroses, and horses. Moreover, it also showcases the only known representation of an owl in cave art. This site is regarded as one of the most essential locations for prehistoric art and received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014. Due to its delicate condition, the original cave is closed to the public.
Year Discovered: 1994
Location: Southeastern region, France
Entry Fee: 15 to 20 euros
Best Time To Visit: Spring and Autumn seasons
The exploration of prehistoric caves offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and artistic expressions of our ancient ancestors. These natural wonders are not only beautiful but serve as vital links to our past, providing insights into the survival, culture, and creativity of early humans and each site highlights the importance of preserving these treasures. Exploring these caves is truly an adventure through time, celebrating the incredible journey of human existence. You too can plan a trip to these prehistoric caves with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: John Manard / Wikimedia Commons
