Jenolan Caves

Jenolan is a spectacular natural wonder, located in protected wilderness, on the western edge of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Jenolan is Australia’s most awe-inspiring cave system and is amongst the world’s finest. The dazzling crystal formations and pure underground rivers are a celebration of nature’s glory.

The caves were ‘discovered’ by white settlers in 1838.  James McKeown was said to have stolen cattle from local pastoralists, who pursued and captured him near what is now the Grand Arch. In 1866, Jenolan Caves and surrounding area were proclaimed a Government Reserve - one of the world’s oldest.  In 2000, The Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve became a World Heritage site, part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.  In 2006, scientists confirmed that Jenolan is the world’s oldest cave system – 340 million years!

Jenolan caves is one of Sydney's most popular natural attractions and highly recommended for families with kids.

The caves are in the traditional lands of the Gundungurra Aboriginal tribe.  They carried their sick over great distances, to be healed in the subterranean water.  Their ‘Dreamtime’ stories say that a giant eel tunnelled through the mountain to create the caves.  He was pursued by a giant native cat, which speared the limestone, forming cave entrances.

Your Sydney attraction pass provides a choice of 3 cave tours. If you have more time, experience Jenolan’s range of award-winning underground experiences:

• 10 awe-inspiring show caves, for a range of fitness levels
• ‘Adventure Caving’, for challenge seekers
• Self-guided, multi lingual cave tour
• Cave tours for children  (NSW school holidays)
• Night tours, such as ‘Legends, Mysteries & Ghosts’
• Underground performances
• Bushwalks, from easy to strenuous. Walkers may spot shy native animals, including water dragons, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, lyre birds and platypus.

Meals and accommodation are available at the grand Caves House hotel, next to the caves. Be sure to also check out the nearby attractions included in your iVenture Card Sydney attraction pass such as Bygone Beautys, or take the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus where it stops at the major attractions in the national park like Echo Point and Three Sisters.

Parking At Jenolan Caves

Most visitors prefer to drive due to limited public transport to Jenolan caves with 3 large car parks with free parking near the attraction. If you are driving be sure to refuel prior to getting to the attraction. The road is not suitable for caravans and there are no camping grounds. Be sure to check if the roads are closed either due to snow and ice or other reasons. There are limited spots available for disabled parking.

FAQ

Is there public transport to Jenolan Caves?

unfortunately, there are no direct public transport to Jenolan Caves. Majority of visitors either drive or arrive by a coach tour. You can catch a train from the Sydney CBD Central Station to Katoomba Station, then catch a coach to Jenolan Caves.

Are there any tours for disabled visitors?

The standard cave tours are not wheelchair accessible, however certain parts of the cave can be accessible. Please call Jenolan caves' staff ahead of time to confirm.

What should I wear for my cave tour?

Wear non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing, similar to what you would wear for nature hikes.

Is it cold in the caves?

Temperatures inside the caves generally stay constant throughout all seasons and ranges around the 15 degree Celsius mark. Bring something warm to wear

Can I still visit if it rains?

Yes, the caves are not affected by rain, with tours running.

Can I take a baby pram or stroller in the caves?

No, the caves are not suitable for prams or strollers nor does Jenolan recommend backpack child carriers.

What if I am running late?

Please inform the Jenolan Guides Office ahead of time so they can try and move you to the next available tour.

* Please note that only one of the tours can be taken with the Attractions Pass per day.