Lexi Webster
Western Australia is known for its stunning landscapes, and some of the most beautiful scenery can be found underground. The region is home to a network of caves with fragile landscapes, formed from the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. From the limestone caves of the Margaret River Region to the ancient Tunnel Creek cave in the Kimberley, here are some of the top things to do in Western Australia's caves.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Margaret River Region, Yanchep National Park, Mimbi Caves, Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park, Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, Geographe Bay, Boyup Brook, Manjimup, Northcliffe, Walpole, Windy Harbour, Perth |
| Features | Limestone caves, fossilised reef systems, underground freshwater pools, stalactites, stalagmites, fossils, labyrinths, crystal formations, boardwalks, torchlit tours, self-guided tours, ancient rock formations, gorges, caverns, underground streams, waterfalls, karst systems |
| Activities | Caving, guided and self-guided tours, walking, hiking, camping, wildlife watching, wine and food tours, drone flying |
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What You'll Learn
Join a tour of the limestone caves in the Margaret River Region
The Margaret River Region is home to over 100 highly decorated limestone caves, formed approximately 1 million years ago. These caves, nestled in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, offer an incredible underground adventure with intricate limestone crystal formations.
You can choose from a range of guided or self-guided tours to explore these caves. If you opt for a guided tour, you will be treated to great commentary and insights about the caves as you walk along boardwalks and through massive chambers. The guided tours are an excellent choice if you want to learn more about the caves and their unique features.
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the self-guided tours are a fantastic option. You can wander through the majestic chambers and take in the beauty of the limestone crystal formations without worrying about keeping up with a group. The self-guided tours offer flexibility and the opportunity to discover hidden corners of the caves at your leisure.
Some of the notable caves in the Margaret River Region include Mammoth Cave, Lake Cave, Jewel Cave, and Ngilgi Cave. Mammoth Cave is a natural time capsule, preserving ancient fossil remains of long-extinct giant animals. It offers a self-guided audio tour experience, available in multiple languages, and provides wheelchair access to the first chamber. Lake Cave, the only cave on the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge with a permanent body of water, boasts a mirrored wonderland with the 'Suspended Table', a spectacular crystal decoration weighing several tonnes. Jewel Cave, the largest show cave in Western Australia, features enormous chambers, impressive stalactites, and unique formations like the stone forest and stalactite organ pipes. Ngilgi Cave, pronounced 'nil-gee', offers an Ancient Lands Experience above ground and a self-guided adventure into its exquisite chambers, where you can learn about incredible stalactites and stalagmites.
Each cave in the Margaret River Region promises a unique and memorable experience, allowing you to discover the rugged beauty of Western Australia's underground world. Whether you choose a guided or self-guided tour, you are sure to be amazed by the natural wonders and intricate limestone formations that these caves have to offer.
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Wade through underground pools in Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park
Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park, Western Australia's oldest cave system, offers an adventure like no other. Located 110km northwest of Fitzroy Crossing, the park is generally inaccessible during the wet season and can only be reached by a four-wheel drive. The ancient cave system is awe-inspiring, with a large tunnel carved through the limestone of the Napier Range by water over millions of years. This tunnel, up to 20 metres high and 15 metres wide in some parts, was once part of an ocean reef system.
As you embark on your journey into the tunnel, you'll be greeted by a captivating display of sunlight arcing onto the cavern walls, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. Keep an eye out for the majestic stalactite rock formations that hang from the walls, adding to the already spectacular scenery. The tunnel stretches for 750 metres, providing a unique and exciting experience as you wade through the freshwater pools, which are mostly knee-high but can be deeper in certain spots.
The cave is also a site of significant cultural importance to the local Bunuba people. It served as a hideout for the Aboriginal leader Jandamarra in the late 19th century, who, unfortunately, met his demise outside its entrance in 1897. The Bunuba people are the Traditional Owners of this land, and visitors are encouraged to explore the area with a cultural guide to learn about its spiritual significance and the legend of Jandamarra.
When planning your visit, it's important to prioritise your safety. Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park is home to freshwater crocodiles, and while they are smaller and less aggressive than their estuarine counterparts, it's crucial to remain cautious and maintain a respectful distance. Additionally, the park recommends carrying a personal location beacon (PLB) for emergency situations.
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Marvel at the huge stalactites in Jewel Cave
Jewel Cave is a must-visit destination in Western Australia, located in the Margaret River Region. The cave is just a 10-minute drive from Augusta and is known for its breathtaking rock formations, including huge stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate crystal structures. The experience combines history, natural beauty, and hospitality, making it a memorable adventure for visitors.
The cave system boasts three massive chambers adorned with glittering crystal formations. The first chamber, in particular, is awe-inspiring, housing one of the longest straw stalactites found in any tourist cave in Australia. This impressive feature, known as "The Organ Pipes," is a highlight for visitors, leaving them in awe of its ancient grandeur.
The guided tours of Jewel Cave enhance the experience, with informative and entertaining guides who share captivating stories of the cave's history. Visitors learn about the now-extinct Tasmanian Tigers that fell into the cave and perished, adding a layer of intrigue to the exploration. The guides' knowledge and enthusiasm ensure an engaging experience for all ages, making the tour a popular choice for families.
In addition to the magnificent stalactites, the cave also showcases the beautiful Karri Forest formation. This unique structure resembles the towering trees in the forest above the cave, creating a captivating connection between the underground world and the terrain above. The natural beauty of the caves, enhanced by the intricate limestone crystal formations, makes it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Every turn reveals new wonders, ensuring an unforgettable journey through time and nature.
After the tour, visitors can relax and refuel at the Jewel Cave Cafe, which offers delicious refreshments and snacks. The cafe provides stunning views of the surrounding karri forest, allowing guests to extend their connection with nature while enjoying a well-deserved break. The friendly staff and delightful cuisine make the cafe a perfect complement to the exploration of Jewel Cave, rounding off the experience in a delightful manner.
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Explore the ancient fossils in Mammoth Cave
Western Australia is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world. One of the most famous caves in the region is Mammoth Cave, located in the Margaret River Region, around 300 km (190 mi) south of Perth. This large limestone cave is a natural time capsule, preserving ancient fossils and providing a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past.
Mammoth Cave is around 500 m (1,600 ft) long and 30 m (98 ft) deep, with huge caverns and majestic rock formations. It was discovered in 1895 but was not explored until a few years later by Tim Connelly, who became its first caretaker and conducted tours by lamplight. The cave has been studied extensively for over a century, yielding fossils of large extinct animals, or megafauna, and providing valuable insights into the region's palaeontological history.
The fossil collection from Mammoth Cave includes around 10,000 specimens, with some bones belonging to the Giant Python (Wonambi naracoortensis), Giant Echidna (Zaglossus hacketti), Large Echidna (Megalibgwilia ramsayi), a species of wombat (Vombatus hacketti), large diprotodontid (Zygomaturus trilobus), browsing kangaroos, giant and large extinct wallabies, and the marsupial lion (Thylacoleo carnifex). The discovery of these fossils has led to Mammoth Cave being referred to as the "Dawn of Creation", suggesting that this site holds the secrets of the beginning of life in the region.
In addition to the ancient fossils, Mammoth Cave also features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as flowstones that resemble a karri forest. A perennial stream flows through the cave during winter and early spring, adding to the beauty and mystery of this underground world. Visitors can choose from guided or self-guided tours, with the option of exploring hidden pathways by torchlight for a truly adventurous experience.
With its awe-inspiring beauty, both above and below ground, Mammoth Cave is a must-visit destination in Western Australia, offering a unique insight into the region's ancient history and the opportunity to explore a natural time capsule, frozen in time.
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Discover the stalactites and stalagmites in Yallingup's Ngilgi Cave
The Ngilgi Cave, previously known as Yallingup Cave, is a karst cave to the northeast of Yallingup, in the southwest of Western Australia. The cave was renamed in 2000 to acknowledge its role in Australian Aboriginal mythology. The legend goes that Ngilgi (pronounced Neelgee) was a good spirit who triumphed in a battle against an evil spirit named Wolgine. The local Wardandi people have long known of the existence of the Ngilgi cave and believe it to be their passage to the afterlife.
The first European to enter the cave was Edward Dawson in 1899, while searching for stray horses. He acted as a guide to the cave from December 1900 to November 1937. The cave was frequently promoted in early 20th-century tourism materials and has been open to tourists for over 110 years. In 1963, there were two record-breaking cave "sit-ins" by Wyndham Rendell (87 days) and Dorothy Williams (90 days).
Today, visitors to Ngilgi Cave can discover the incredible stalactites and stalagmites that adorn its interior. The cave offers both guided and self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The Explorer Adventure Tour is a popular choice, offering a physical challenge along with the opportunity to learn about the cave's history and see amazing formations. For those seeking an even greater adventure, the Adventure Tours take visitors off the boardwalk and into the undeveloped parts of the cave, where there are no lights or infrastructure.
In addition to its stalactites and stalagmites, Ngilgi Cave also features a famous "tunnel of doom" that visitors can crawl through. The cave is known for its elegant stairs and lighting, which enhance the natural beauty of the cave's interior. The lighting has been strategically placed to highlight the cave's crystal formations, with some lights even changing colour to create a dramatic effect. Overall, a visit to Yallingup's Ngilgi Cave promises to be a fascinating journey into the underworld, offering both adventure and a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual significance of caves in Western Australia.
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Frequently asked questions
Some of the best caves to visit in Western Australia include the Crystal Cave in Yanchep National Park, Jewel Cave, Giants Cave, Lake Cave, Mammoth Cave, and Ngilgi Cave.
The caves in Western Australia feature stunning rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and limestone pillars. Some caves also contain ancient ochre paintings, fossils, and underground streams and pools.
Yes, it is important to note that while most tourist caves are safe for the general public, some caves have complex and fragile landscapes, and others may have dangerous terrain. Always follow the instructions of your guide and stay on designated paths.
