The Jenolan Caves system in the Blue Mountains is 340 million years old, making it one of the oldest cave systems on Earth. Ten caves are open to the public, offering spectacular visits suitable for everyone. Here a my tips to organise your visit to Jenolan Caves from Sydney.
How long should you spend in Jenolan Caves?
I usually spend one day (but half a day can work too) around Jenolan Caves. However, the scenic drive from Sydney (a bit less than 3 hours) is too long to make a day trip to Jenolan Caves to be worthwhile. There are many things to do in the Blue Mountains, so it’s better to plan to stay a few days in the region. The Three Sisters and the Wentworth Falls are the most famous landmarks, but I personally prefer the lookouts in the Blackheath area.
Caving experience at Jenolan Caves
I had my first caving experience at the Jenolan Caves. We arrived late in the afternoon and took the first guided tour available. It was unbelievable and well above my expectations.
No equipment or planning was necessary as it is a touristy place, and they provided everything needed for the visit. The tour was well-organized and accessible even for someone inexperienced. While there were some moments that required a bit of fitness and flexibility, it added to the adventure without being too difficult.
The guide was incredibly passionate and provided fascinating explanations. We had plenty of time to soak in the experience, and the lighting in the cave was expertly done, enhancing its natural beauty. I was taken aback by the unexpected water features and the mesmerizing fluorescent rocks.
I highly recommend this visit as I truly enjoyed the opportunity to try something different and slightly challenging. I’m already itching to return to Jenolan Caves to try adventure caving! Has anyone tried this before? Share your experience in the comments below!
Don’t want to drive to the Jenolan Caves? You may be interested in joining a tour from Sydney that will take you to the Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves. Fitting both in a day trip is a lot, but sometimes, that’s the only opportunity you have. Viator* offers a few of these tours that you can book online. There are also tour options departing from Katoomba, the town in the Blue Mountains that you can reach by train from Sydney.
Jenolan Caves is not just about the caves
On my second visit, we arrived just before dark and stopped at Blue Lake just before the caves, not for the stunning colour of the lake, but to see a platypus.
A platypus lives in Blue Lake, just at the entrance of Jenolan Caves. Apparently, it comes out hunting almost every day after sunset, providing a fantastic opportunity to see one of Australia’s most iconic animals up close. Platypuses are shy and nocturnal, so it’s a real chance to spot one in the wild.
Where are the Jenolan Caves?
The Jenolan Caves are located 175 kilometres west of Sydney, in the Blue Mountains region in New South Wales.
