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Magellan Cave: A Journey into Armenia's Subterranean Wonders

Explore the depths of Magellan Cave in Areni, Armenia: a cool subterranean adventure filled with geological wonders and ancient history.

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Venture into Magellan Cave, a captivating natural limestone cave near Areni, Armenia, offering guided tours through winding passages adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Discovered in 1940 and explored in 1980, this cave promises an unforgettable underground adventure with a constant cool temperature, making it a perfect escape during the summer heat.

A brief summary to Magellan cave

  • Monday 11 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the cave temperature is significantly cooler than the outside.
  • Visit during the early hours for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
  • Combine your cave visit with a tour of the Areni wineries to experience the region's famed wine culture.
  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Magellan Cave via public transport, take a minibus (marshrutka) from Yerevan to Areni village. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. From Areni, you can either walk (approximately 1.5 hours) or hire a taxi for the remaining 6 km to the cave. A taxi ride should cost around 2,000-3,000 AMD.

  • Driving

    If driving from Yerevan, head towards Areni village. From the center of Areni, follow the road towards P6G4+472, approximately 6 km away. Follow the signs for Magellan Cave, driving carefully on the narrow, winding roads. Limited parking is available near the cave entrance.

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Discover more about Magellan cave

Magellan Cave, nestled in the Areni community of Armenia's Vayots Dzor region, invites you on an enthralling journey into the depths of nature's artistry. This natural limestone cave, a hidden gem, is celebrated for its breathtaking geological formations and rich historical significance. Discovered in 1940 by Magellan Arakelyan, a local hunter, the cave remained largely unexplored until 1980 when caving experts mapped its 1,385-meter length. Today, guided tours lead visitors through approximately 350 meters of winding corridors, showcasing unique stalactites, stalagmites, and fossil specimens. The cave's depth maintains a stable temperature of around +8°C to +14°C, offering a refreshing escape from the Armenian heat. As you explore the depths, you'll witness nature's artistry etched in stone, with each formation telling a story of the earth's ancient past. Archaeological finds within the cave hint at ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. Keep an eye out for the eight species of bats that call Magellan Cave home. Located just 3 km from Areni, the heart of Armenia's winemaking heritage, a visit to Magellan Cave can be combined with exploring local wineries and tasting the region's renowned wines. The nearby Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century architectural marvel, is also worth a visit.

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