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Tantanoola Caves: A Subterranean Wonder

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tantanoola Caves, one of Australia's most accessible and visually stunning natural wonders.

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Explore the stunning Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park, a unique cave system known for its beautiful pink and brown dolomite formations and accessibility for all, including wheelchair users. Discover its marine history and fascinating geological features on a guided tour.

A brief summary to Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park

  • Monday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Book your cave tour online in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the cliff-top walking trail and bring a jacket as the cave temperature remains a constant 17 degrees Celsius.
  • Take your time exploring the cave and admire the intricate details of the dolomite formations.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic picnic areas after your cave tour.
  • Check the Parks SA website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park is located on the Princes Highway, approximately 29km northwest of Mount Gambier. From Mount Gambier, head northwest on the Princes Highway. The park is well-signposted and easily accessible directly from the highway. Parking is available on-site. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Limited public transport options are available. Bus services between Mount Gambier and Melbourne may stop at the Tantanoola Tourist Information Centre, a short walk from the caves. Check the Premier Stateliner bus schedule for the most up-to-date information. A one way ticket from Mount Gambier to the Tantanoola Tourist Information Centre will cost approximately $10-$20.

Unlock the Best of Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park

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Discover more about Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park

Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park offers a unique glimpse into a subterranean world adorned with stunning geological formations. Located a short drive from Mount Gambier, the park's centerpiece, Tantanoola Cave, is renowned for its vibrant pink and brown dolomite cliffs and the intricate cave system nestled within. The cave's history is as captivating as its appearance. Discovered in 1930 by a young rabbit hunter named Boyce Lane, the caves were formed over millennia by the constant action of the ocean. As the sea retreated, it left behind a cavern filled with shells, pebbles, and even seal bones, remnants of its marine past. Today, the cave boasts a mesmerizing display of speleothems, showcasing nature's artistry in delicate shades of pink and brown. Tantanoola Cave stands out as one of Australia's few wheelchair-accessible caves. Carefully designed ramps allow visitors of all abilities to explore the large cavern with ease. Knowledgeable guides lead informative tours, sharing the cave's history, geological significance, and the story of its discovery. Visitors are then free to wander through the cavern and capture the beauty of the 'Up and Down Rocks' and other unique formations. Above ground, the Conservation Park offers picturesque picnic areas and a cliff-top walking trail with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The 500-meter loop trail leads past an abandoned quarry to the top of Up and Down Rock, where you can see the Woakwine wind farm and the coastline. The park provides a well-rounded experience for those seeking natural beauty and geological wonders.

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