12 Forbidden Caves Around the World: Explorers Claim They’ve Seen the Unthinkable – Dare to Discover What Lies Beneath

5 April 2025

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Beneath the earth’s surface, hidden worlds pulse with secrets waiting to be uncovered. The air is thick with mystery, each shadow concealing stories of ancient civilizations, untold wonders, and the uncanny silence of nature’s most forbidden spaces.

For the adventurous at heart, these caves are more than mere geological marvels—they are gateways to profound experiences, pushing the boundaries of discovery and awe.

As we venture into these unseen realms, prepare to be immersed in tales of unthinkable sights, with each descent promising not just a journey, but a transformation. What lies beneath will change the way you see the world above.

1. Cave of Swallows (Mexico)

Hidden deep within the lush forests of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, the Cave of Swallows (Cueva de las Golondrinas) is a breathtaking wonder that draws adventurers from all over the world. As you descend into the cavern’s mouth, you’re met with the overwhelming sight of a giant shaft—approximately 1,200 feet (366 meters) deep. The cavern’s sheer size is mind-boggling, a natural sinkhole so vast that the sun’s rays can barely pierce through the dense foliage above. Its towering walls are adorned with ancient minerals, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The rush of air, the sound of distant echoes, and the rush of swallows circling above as they return to their nests offer an experience that feels like stepping into another time.

What makes the Cave of Swallows so unique is not only its colossal size but also the extreme vertical drop that makes it a popular site for extreme sport enthusiasts. Those daring enough can rappel down the sides of the cave—an adrenaline-pumping experience unlike any other. The moment when you’re suspended in the air, gazing up at the entrance, feels surreal. It’s an indescribable feeling to be surrounded by nothing but silence, with only the distant flutters of bird wings and the faint hum of nature accompanying you.

Key Practical Information:

Peak/Off-peak seasons: The best time to visit is during the dry season, typically from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the terrain is safer for rappelling. The off-peak season (May to October) can bring heavy rains that may make access more challenging.
Best ways to reach and explore: To reach the Cave of Swallows, fly into Sierra Gorda and travel by car to the town of Tamasopo. From there, a local guide is essential, as the trail to the cave can be tricky. For thrill-seekers, rappelling into the cave requires an experienced guide and specialized equipment.
Ideal duration of visit: Plan for a half-day visit. The descent and exploration of the cave usually take a few hours.
Must-try local experiences: The nearby Tamasopo Waterfalls offer a refreshing stop after your cave adventure. Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters or enjoy a boat ride along the river.
Budget considerations: Tours can range from $50-$100 USD, depending on the level of adventure (e.g., rappelling or just sightseeing). Don’t forget to factor in the cost of hiring a local guide.
Cultural etiquette tips: Respect the natural environment and wildlife, particularly the swallows, which have nested in the cave for centuries. Avoid loud noises and stay on designated paths to prevent disturbing the ecosystem.
Photography opportunities: The cave’s massive entrance is perfect for panoramic shots, while the sight of swallows in flight can make for dramatic captures. Bring a wide-angle lens for the best shots of the cave’s vast expanse.

2. Postojna Cave (Slovenia)

Postojna Cave is a place where history and nature beautifully converge. As one of the largest karst cave systems in Europe, it spans over 15 miles (24 kilometers) beneath the surface of Slovenia. Visitors enter this incredible network of tunnels on a train that carries them deep into the heart of the cave. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning rock formations—stalactites and stalagmites that seem almost frozen in time. The cave feels alive, with underground rivers and chambers that echo with the whispers of ancient secrets. The sheer magnitude of the space makes you feel small in the grand tapestry of nature’s craftsmanship, while the colors of the minerals give the walls an otherworldly glow.

The cave system’s most famous inhabitants, the Proteus (also known as “human fish”), are unique aquatic salamanders that thrive in the dark waters of the cave. Spotting one of these elusive creatures is like witnessing a rare piece of living history, a creature that has adapted to life without sunlight for millions of years. Exploring Postojna is a sensory journey: the damp coolness of the air, the soft rustle of water dripping from stalactites, and the feeling of traveling through the veins of the Earth itself.

Key Practical Information:

Peak/Off-peak seasons: The summer months (June-August) are busiest, with tourists flocking to the cave to escape the heat. However, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are excellent times to visit, with fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures.
Best ways to reach and explore: The cave is located near the town of Postojna, easily reachable by car or bus from Ljubljana (the capital of Slovenia). The guided train tour is a must, offering insights into the cave’s geological history and its unique ecosystem.
Ideal duration of visit: A half-day is sufficient for the cave exploration. You can add on a visit to Predjama Castle, which is nearby, for a full day of adventure.
Must-try local experiences: After the cave tour, explore Predjama Castle, a medieval fortress built into a cliffside. It’s a stunning sight and offers fascinating tales of historical sieges.
Budget considerations: Tickets for the cave tour cost approximately €25-€30 for adults, with discounts for children and students. Guided tours and audio guides are available at additional costs.
Cultural etiquette tips: Avoid touching the cave formations as this can damage the delicate mineral structures. Be mindful of your voice level, as the cave is an eco-sensitive area.
Photography opportunities: The surreal, otherworldly stalactites and stalagmites are a photographer’s dream. The train ride through the cave offers great shots of the expansive tunnels, but be aware that lighting can be dim, so a good camera is essential.

3. Lascaux Cave (France)

The Lascaux Cave system, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of prehistoric art. Discovered in 1940, its walls are covered with some of the most impressive examples of Paleolithic cave paintings ever found. The paintings, believed to be around 17,000 years old, depict various animals, including stags, horses, and bison, skillfully rendered in vivid reds, blacks, and yellows. The vividness and detail of the artwork create a visceral connection to humanity’s ancient past, a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors. The cave’s entrance, nestled in the Dordogne region, feels like a portal into a distant, forgotten world.

Although the original cave is no longer accessible to the public due to preservation concerns, the nearby Lascaux IV replica provides a lifelike experience. Visitors can explore meticulously recreated sections of the cave and see the artwork up close, offering an educational and awe-inspiring glimpse into the ancient artists’ world. Walking through the replica, one can almost hear the ancient echoes of the artists’ work—a reminder of how deeply our species has always sought to understand and represent the world around them.

Key Practical Information:

Peak/Off-peak seasons: Summer (June-August) attracts the most visitors, so if you prefer fewer crowds, visit during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October).
Best ways to reach and explore: Fly into Bordeaux and take a train or drive to the Lascaux area. The replica caves are open for guided tours, which are available in multiple languages.
Ideal duration of visit: A half-day is enough to see the cave replica and explore the small town of Montignac.
Must-try local experiences: Take a walk through the charming village of Montignac, known for its quaint shops and local cuisine, or enjoy a Dordogne river cruise to experience the natural beauty of the region.
Budget considerations: Entry to the replica cave is €15-€20, with special family packages available. Audio guides and special tours are available at an additional cost.
Cultural etiquette tips: Treat the artwork with reverence and be respectful of the replica as it’s a representation of a precious cultural heritage.
Photography opportunities: While the cave itself prohibits photography to protect the artwork, the replica offers fantastic opportunities for photography—capture the intricate details of the ancient paintings and the surreal beauty of the cave’s formations.

4. Fingal’s Cave (Scotland)

On the remote island of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides, Fingal’s Cave is a natural marvel that has captivated explorers and artists for centuries. The cave’s distinctive hexagonal basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity, create a dramatic, almost alien-like structure. The moment you step into the cave, you’re met with a haunting sense of isolation as the rhythmic sound of the sea crashing against the rock amplifies within the cavern. The ocean’s deep hum reverberates through the columns, adding an ethereal soundtrack to the experience. The cave’s design, resembling an ancient cathedral, feels both mystical and awe-inspiring.

The uniqueness of Fingal’s Cave lies not just in its geological formations, but also in its remote location. The journey to reach the island is an adventure in itself, often requiring a boat ride that brings you face-to-face with the rugged beauty of Scotland’s coastline. Visitors can step ashore and take in the cave’s majestic columns, or brave the entrance by boat, gliding past the craggy cliffs as the dark, tempestuous waters swirl around you.

Key Practical Information:

Peak/Off-peak seasons: Summer (June-August) is the best time to visit, with calm weather ideal for boat tours. The off-season (October-April) can bring rough seas and colder temperatures, making access more challenging.
Best ways to reach and explore: From Oban, boat tours depart for Staffa Island. The boat ride is scenic and brings you close to the island’s cliffs and wildlife, such as puffins and seals.
Ideal duration of visit: A half-day trip to Fingal’s Cave is ideal, with plenty of time to explore the island and marvel at the geological features.
Must-try local experiences: After visiting Fingal’s Cave, head to Iona, an island steeped in history, where you can explore the ancient Iona Abbey.
Budget considerations: Boat tours typically cost around £30-£50 per person. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Cultural etiquette tips: Respect the wildlife on the island, particularly nesting birds. Follow all guidelines to preserve the environment.
Photography opportunities: The hexagonal columns and the dramatic contrast between the dark cave and bright ocean create mesmerizing shots. Bring a waterproof camera case to protect your gear.

5. Waitomo Caves (New Zealand)

Waitomo Caves in New Zealand are renowned for their glowing inhabitants—the Waitomo glowworms, whose bioluminescence creates an unforgettable display. As you drift silently through the caves in a small boat, the walls glow with tiny blue dots, lighting your path through the darkness like a starry sky. The magical atmosphere is enhanced by the stillness of the cave, broken only by the gentle ripples of the boat’s movement. The contrast between the pitch-black surroundings and the soft, otherworldly glow of the worms is both calming and surreal, leaving visitors feeling as though they’ve stepped into a fantasy world.

These caves are more than just a visual spectacle; they are steeped in Maori legend and are a sacred site for the indigenous people. The word “Waitomo” itself means “waterhole” in Maori, referencing the natural waterways that weave through the cave system. The deeper you venture into the cave, the more intimate the experience becomes, with each chamber offering its own hidden marvels. Whether exploring the glowworm displays or discovering the underground waterfalls, Waitomo promises a sense of wonder at every turn.

Key Practical Information:

Peak/Off-peak seasons: Summer (December-February) brings the highest number of visitors, so consider going during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for a more peaceful experience.
Best ways to reach and explore: Located on the North Island, Waitomo is accessible by car from Hamilton or Auckland. Many tours are available, including guided walking and boat rides.
Ideal duration of visit: A half-day visit is ideal for seeing the main caves, with options for longer excursions to explore other nearby caves.
Must-try local experiences: Explore nearby Raglan Beach for surfing or visit Hobbiton (the movie set from The Lord of the Rings) for a full day of adventure.
Budget considerations: Prices range from $40-$100 NZD for cave tours, with premium experiences (including private tours) costing more.
Cultural etiquette tips: Respect the natural beauty of the cave system and its significance to the Maori people. Avoid touching the glowworms or disrupting their environment.
Photography opportunities: Capture the glowworms in the darkness of the cave, but avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the delicate ecosystem. A steady hand and long exposure shots work best for glowing effects.

6. Altamira Cave (Spain)

Nestled in the hills of northern Spain, Altamira Cave is often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory.” While its famous cave paintings of bison are some of the oldest and best-preserved in the world, the real allure lies in the cave’s storytelling power. These ancient artworks were crafted by Paleolithic humans around 36,000 years ago, capturing the primal relationship between man and animal. But what truly stands out about Altamira isn’t just the artistry—it’s the sense of connection. When you stand at the replica of the cave entrance, you can almost imagine the flicker of firelight casting shadows on the walls as the early humans painted these vivid images, perhaps as a way to communicate with the spirits of the animals they revered.

Though the original cave is closed to the public for preservation, Altamira’s museum and its replica cave provide an immersive experience that brings the art to life in an incredibly detailed environment. You’re not just looking at ancient paintings—you’re stepping into the very world where our ancestors once lived. Altamira offers more than just a peek into history—it offers a sense of timelessness, as if the past is still alive and waiting to be understood.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: For fewer crowds, visit during the off-peak months (October to April), avoiding the summer rush. The mild climate during spring and fall makes for a pleasant exploration.
Travel details: The cave is located in Santillana del Mar, around 30 minutes from Santander. Drive or take a local bus from the city center. The site includes a detailed replica cave and museum, ensuring a well-rounded visit.
Duration: A half-day will suffice to see the replica and museum exhibits.
Budget tip: Entry to the museum costs around €15, with additional fees for specialized tours. Booking in advance is recommended.
Cultural tips: Respect the cultural importance of the cave and its artwork, and refrain from making noise or disturbing the exhibits.
Photography: Photography is allowed in the replica areas, but avoid using flash to preserve the integrity of the replicas. The museum’s educational displays also offer excellent photo opportunities.

7. Carlsbad Caverns (USA)

Carlsbad Caverns is an awe-inspiring underground world nestled in the heart of the New Mexico desert. Known for its staggering number of caverns (over 119), it’s the scale of the cave system that truly captivates the imagination. But there’s more to Carlsbad than just vast underground chambers. Every night, the sky above the cave comes alive with the spectacle of millions of bats emerging from the entrance, their wings fluttering in a dark cloud as they head out to forage. It’s a natural phenomenon that has drawn curious eyes for generations, offering a unique blend of natural wonder and thrilling adventure.

The caverns themselves are an ethereal landscape of stalactites and stalagmites, some stretching up to 60 feet (18 meters) tall. The Big Room is one of the largest underground chambers in North America, and walking through it feels like stepping into another realm—a world where light and shadow play tricks on your senses, and the air is heavy with the musty scent of ancient stone. Carlsbad offers a true sense of otherworldliness, where you’re both humbled and uplifted by nature’s silent artistry.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: The summer months are ideal for witnessing the bat flight, but visiting in fall or spring ensures fewer crowds.
Getting there: Located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, the cave is accessible by car from Albuquerque (around 4 hours). The National Park offers both guided and self-guided tours.
Duration of visit: Expect to spend a half to full day exploring the cave system and the surrounding park.
Must-try experience: Don’t miss the bat flight program, where you can witness the evening departure of thousands of bats from the cave entrance—a truly unforgettable spectacle.
Budget tips: Entrance fees are approximately $15 per adult, with discounts for children and seniors.
Cultural etiquette: Respect the cave’s delicate ecosystem, including the bat population. Avoid using flash photography in the cave to protect the natural environment.
Photography tips: The dramatic lighting of the Big Room is perfect for photography, though a tripod and longer exposure may be necessary due to low lighting.

8. Cave of the Crystals (Mexico)

Deep in the Naica Mine of northern Mexico, lies one of the most surreal places on Earth: the Cave of the Crystals. The cave is famous for its enormous selenite crystals, some of which can grow as large as 36 feet (11 meters). These crystals, formed over thousands of years in an environment of extreme heat and mineral-rich water, are so otherworldly that they seem like something out of a fantasy novel. Stepping into the cave feels like entering a glowing, crystalline wonderland, where the air is heavy with heat, and the world around you is bathed in a soft, otherworldly glow.

But the Cave of the Crystals is not an easy place to visit. The cave’s temperature can reach up to 136°F (58°C), making it dangerous to spend prolonged periods inside without specialized gear. Only a limited number of scientists and explorers have had the privilege of entering the cave due to the extreme conditions. However, virtual tours of the cave are available for those who want to witness the majesty of this underground crystal palace from a safe distance.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: The cave is closed to the public for safety reasons, but you can visit the Naica Mine and other local caves. Virtual tours of the Cave of the Crystals are available year-round.
Getting there: The nearest town is Naica, located about 6 hours from Chihuahua by car. Tours to other local caves can be arranged through local guides.
Duration of visit: A half-day tour is enough for a visit to other caves in the area, but the Cave of the Crystals itself requires special access.
Budget considerations: Visiting the nearby caves is affordable (around $10-$20 USD). However, the Cave of the Crystals remains off-limits for most tourists.
Cultural tips: Respect the natural environment, as the cave system is delicate and the temperature is extreme.
Photography opportunities: For those who can access it, the crystal formations create breathtaking visuals. However, due to the intense heat, camera gear should be protected.

9. Longmen Grottoes (China)

The Longmen Grottoes in central China are an extraordinary collection of Buddhist caves carved into the cliffs of the Yi River. These 2,000-year-old caves house over 100,000 statues of Buddha and his disciples, each meticulously sculpted into the rock. The scale and intricacy of the carvings are astonishing—each statue seems to hold its own story, each a piece of history that has survived the ravages of time. As you wander through the grottoes, the experience feels almost spiritual, as though you’re walking through a living, breathing history that spans centuries of devotion and artistry.

But beyond the famous statues, there’s another hidden layer to the Longmen Grottoes: the quiet cultural significance of the site. In addition to the carvings, the grottoes are home to stunning inscriptions that offer insights into ancient Chinese history, religion, and philosophy. Visiting the site is as much about absorbing its atmosphere as it is about admiring the artwork. The grottoes offer a rare, unhurried exploration of both art and history, away from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: The spring and autumn months offer comfortable temperatures and avoid the heavy tourist crowds of summer.
Getting there: The Longmen Grottoes are located in Luoyang, about 2 hours from Zhengzhou by car or high-speed train.
Duration: A half to full-day visit is ideal to explore the grottoes and surrounding areas.
Must-try experiences: Visit the White Horse Temple, China’s first Buddhist temple, located nearby, for a deeper cultural experience.
Budget considerations: Entrance to the grottoes is around ¥100-¥150. For a guided tour, prices may range from ¥200-¥500.
Cultural tips: Be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Keep noise levels low, and avoid touching the carvings to preserve their integrity.
Photography opportunities: The Buddha statues against the cliffside offer dramatic photo ops, but avoid using flash in order to protect the carvings.

10. Sung Sot Cave (Vietnam)

Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Surprise Cave, is one of the most impressive natural wonders on Halong Bay in Vietnam. Unlike the dark, mysterious caves of the past, Sung Sot offers a sense of discovery at every turn. As you enter the cave, you are greeted by two massive chambers, each filled with stalactites and stalagmites in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. The feeling of entering the cave is akin to stepping into another world, one where nature has carefully sculpted intricate formations over millions of years. As you wander deeper, the surreal lighting casts an almost magical glow on the stalactites, creating an atmosphere that’s both mystical and peaceful.

What makes Sung Sot particularly special is the way the light filters through the cave’s openings, giving it a sense of life and energy. Visitors often comment that the cave feels more like an enchanting sanctuary than a natural structure—its grandness is both humbling and awe-inspiring. It’s a space where time seems to slow down, and the only thing you can do is marvel at the spectacle before you.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: Visit during the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Getting there: Sung Sot is located on Bai Tu Long Bay, accessible by boat from Halong Bay. A guided tour is typically the best way to explore the cave and surrounding areas.
Duration: A half-day visit will allow you to explore both chambers and enjoy the stunning views of Halong Bay.
Must-try experiences: After exploring the cave, take a boat tour of Halong Bay, known for its limestone karsts and tranquil waters.
Budget considerations: Entrance fees to Sung Sot Cave are $10-$15 USD. A boat tour of Halong Bay can range from $20-$50 USD depending on the tour type.
Cultural tips: Respect the local environment, especially when visiting sacred or significant sites.
Photography opportunities: The cave’s lighting and formations make for great photographic subjects. A wide-angle lens works best to capture the vastness of the chambers.

11. Black Hole of Calcutta (Jamaica)

The Black Hole of Calcutta in Jamaica is a hidden gem, both in terms of its natural beauty and its mystique. This massive limestone cave is an underground marvel, with water-filled chambers that stretch deep beneath the surface. The cave earned its name from its eerie, dark waters, which appear almost black, creating a sense of mystery. The more you explore, the more this natural space reveals its secrets—from the intricate rock formations to the stalactites that seem to hang on the verge of collapse.

Though it’s less famous than other caves on this list, the Black Hole of Calcutta offers an experience filled with intrigue. As you navigate through narrow passages and cool underground streams, you might feel as though you’ve been transported to an undiscovered world. It’s not just the cave’s beauty that stands out; it’s the fact that it’s less commercialized, providing a more raw and unrefined connection with nature. Exploring here feels like a private adventure, one you’ve stumbled upon in the heart of the Jamaican wilderness.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: The cave is most accessible during the dry season (November-April).
Getting there: Located near Ocho Rios, you can reach the cave by car or bus. The cave requires a guided tour, as the paths are sometimes treacherous.
Duration: Plan for 2-3 hours to explore the cave and the surrounding jungle area.
Must-try experience: Swim in the cave’s cool waters or explore the nearby River Falls for a complete adventure.
Budget considerations: Expect to pay $15-$30 USD for a guided tour, which includes equipment.
Cultural tips: Be mindful of the cave’s secluded nature and respect the local wildlife.
Photography opportunities: The dark, serene waters make for great shots, though bringing waterproof gear is advisable for underwater shots.

12. Wookey Hole Caves (England)

Tucked in the heart of Somerset, Wookey Hole Caves is one of the UK’s most iconic and enchanting cave systems. It’s not just the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites that draw visitors here—it’s the mix of legend, history, and mystery that makes the caves so fascinating. The caves are famous for their ancient human occupation, as evidence of prehistoric man has been found in the form of bones and tools. But it’s the Wookey Witch legend that truly adds an air of intrigue. According to local folklore, a witch once lived in the caves, turned to stone by a monk who cast a spell to trap her. Whether myth or reality, the story infuses the caves with a sense of magic, making them feel like a place where both time and myth are suspended.

Beyond the mythical tales, Wookey Hole Caves also offers a range of exciting and educational experiences. Visitors can explore winding passages, underground chambers, and even see the famous witch’s stone—a natural rock formation shaped like a witch, allegedly where the witch herself turned to stone. The caves also serve as a fascinating geological site, with a guided tour explaining how these limestone caverns formed over millions of years, showcasing nature’s extraordinary ability to sculpt stone into organic, otherworldly shapes.

Practical Insights:

Best time to visit: The spring and summer months (April to September) are the best time to visit, as the weather is milder and the crowds are larger. However, the autumn months offer fewer crowds, and the misty weather adds an eerie atmosphere to the cave.
Getting there: Wookey Hole Caves are located near Wells, just a short drive from Bristol. You can easily reach the caves by car, with ample parking available on-site. There are also regular bus services from the nearby town of Wells.
Duration: A half to full-day visit is recommended. The caves themselves take about an hour to explore, but you’ll want to set aside extra time to enjoy the surrounding area, which includes a play park, a museum, and even a penny arcade.
Must-try experience: Visit the Wookey Hole Witch’s Cave to learn more about the fascinating legend and try your hand at cave diving in the nearby Wookey Hole waters, if you’re feeling adventurous.
Budget considerations: Entry costs around £20 for adults and £15 for children, with discounted family tickets available. Additional activities such as the cave diving or magic shows have separate fees.
Cultural tips: Keep the rich folklore in mind as you explore the cave. Respect the local legends, and don’t disturb any ancient formations in the cave.
Photography opportunities: The stalactites and stalagmites are an obvious draw, but also capture the eerie Wookey Witch stone and the strange, almost whimsical atmosphere of the cave. Be mindful of low light conditions when shooting indoors.