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Cave · Katoomba, New South Wales
Jenolan Caves
Limestone cave system about 340 million years old west of the Blue Mountains, with eleven lit caves open to visitors, the Grand Arch and Blue Lake.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Jenolan Caves
The Jenolan Caves lie in a karst reserve west of the Blue Mountains, about 74 km from Katoomba by road. At around 340 million years old, they are cited as the world’s oldest known and dated open cave system. The reserve is part of the Greater Blue Mountains Area World Heritage site.
Eleven show caves are open to visitors. Most are visited in guided groups, which take you through chambers with stalactites, columns and limestone formations in curtains and crystals. There is also a self-guided audio route through Nettle Cave and the Devils Coach House, two large openings in the rock.
The access road passes through the Grand Arch, a huge natural arch from which several tours start. Nearby is Blue Lake, a blue-water lake formed by the dam of a former power station, with trails through the bush and a chance to see platypuses.
For the Gundungurra and Wiradjuri, the place has names such as Binomil and its own meanings. Guided tours are ticketed and have limited places.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for one or two guided cave tours; a full day to include the walking trails and Blue Lake.
Best time
All year: temperature inside the caves varies little. Book tours in advance, especially on weekends and school holidays.
How to get there
By car, about 74 km from Katoomba via a mountain road, with the final section on tight bends. There are also organized tours from Sydney and from Katoomba.
Tip
Choose caves by the duration and number of steps of each tour. Bring a light jacket for inside the caves.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Jenolan Caves
What is the distance from Jenolan Caves to Katoomba?
About 74 km by road, or 30 km in a straight line, west of the Blue Mountains.
Are guides required at Jenolan Caves?
Most caves are visited with a guide and require booking. There is a self-guided audio route through Nettle Cave and the Devils Coach House.
How old are the Jenolan Caves?
About 340 million years. They are cited as the world’s oldest known and dated open cave system.