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Naracoorte Caves National Park: A Journey Through Time

Explore ancient caves, discover megafauna fossils, and uncover South Australia's unique natural history at this World Heritage site.

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Explore South Australia's only World Heritage site, the Naracoorte Caves National Park, a paleontological treasure trove where fossils of megafauna from over 500,000 years ago have been discovered. Discover the fascinating history of Australian marsupials and explore the stunning cave formations.

A brief summary to Naracoorte Caves National Park

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring caves, as some surfaces can be uneven.
  • Bring a jacket, as the caves maintain a constant temperature of 17 degrees Celsius, which can feel cool.
  • Book cave tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Visit the Bat Observation Centre in the evening during summer to witness the spectacular sight of thousands of Southern Bent-wing Bats emerging from the cave.
  • Check the park's website for information on accessibility, including wheelchair-accessible trails and facilities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Naracoorte Caves National Park is located 10km south of Naracoorte. From Naracoorte, head south on the Riddoch Highway (A66). Turn left onto Wonambi Road and follow the signs to the park entrance. There is ample free parking available at the park.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transport to the caves, you can take a bus to Naracoorte from Adelaide or Mount Gambier. From Naracoorte, you would need to take a taxi or arrange for a ride to the caves, which are located 10km south of town. A taxi from Naracoorte to the caves would cost approximately $30-$40.

Unlock the Best of Naracoorte Caves National Park

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Discover more about Naracoorte Caves National Park

Naracoorte Caves National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique window into Australia's prehistoric past. Located in the Limestone Coast region of South Australia, the park is renowned for its extensive fossil record, providing insights into the evolution of Australia's unique fauna. The caves themselves were formed from limestone created by coral and marine creatures over millions of years. Over time, groundwater dissolved and eroded the limestone, creating the caves that exist today. These caves acted as natural pitfall traps, where animals would fall in and be unable to escape, resulting in a rich accumulation of fossils over hundreds of thousands of years. Visitors can explore several caves, each offering a distinct experience. The Victoria Fossil Cave, discovered in 1969, is famous for its significant fossil deposits. Alexandra Cave offers an easy introduction to cave geology, while Blanche Cave is home to a colony of Southern Bent-wing Bats. The Wonambi Fossil Centre displays fossils and recreates the environment of 200,000 years ago with life-sized models of extinct megafauna. Above ground, the accessible Roof Top Loop Walk provides views into the caves and the surrounding landscape. The park is not only a significant paleontological site but also a place of natural beauty, with walking trails, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're interested in fossils, geology, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Naracoorte Caves National Park offers a memorable experience for all ages.

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