In short
- The 45-minute Cathedral Cave Tour fits all ages and is stroller friendly.
- The Explorer Tour requires a minimum age of 5 years.
- The Adventurer Tour is restricted to kids aged 10 and older.
In this article
Choosing the right tour is the most important part of planning your family visit. The cave system has different routes depending on your children's ages and mobility. Here is exactly what you need to know before booking.
Which tour is best for young kids and toddlers?
The Cathedral Cave Tour is the best option for young families.
This 45-minute tour uses zig-zagging boardwalks and ramps, making it completely wheelchair and stroller accessible. It takes you through the largest caverns and requires no crawling.
What are the age limits for the adventure tours?
Children must be at least 5 years old for the Explorer Tour and 10 years old for the Adventurer Tour.
These age limits are strictly enforced for safety. The 90-minute Explorer Tour ventures into deeper spots like Deep Vault Cave. The 120-minute Adventurer Tour involves climbing and crawling through tight spots like Fat Man's Misery.
Are children allowed to explore the caves without an adult?
No, all children under 16 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult.
This rule applies to all tours across the property. You must stay with your children at all times inside the caves and on the surface trails.
What do kids need to wear inside the caves?
Kids should wear enclosed shoes and a light long-sleeve shirt or jacket.
The caves maintain a steady temperature of 22°C (71°F) year-round, which can feel cool to younger children. Enclosed footwear is strictly required for the adventure tours and strongly recommended for the Cathedral Cave Tour to provide safe grip.
Is there anything for kids to do above ground?
Yes, the 80-acre nature reserve offers surface trails and wildlife spotting.
Families can walk the 30-minute Karst Walk to see above-ground limestone landscapes and native bushland. You might also spot local wildlife. The visitor centre has a licensed cafe where you can grab snacks before or after your tour.
How much are child tickets?
Child tickets for the Cathedral Cave Tour cost approximately $21.50 AUD.
This price applies to children aged 4 to 15. The Explorer Tour and Adventurer Tour have higher entry costs due to the specialized equipment and longer durations. Prices change, so always check current rates when booking.
Questions travellers ask
Can I take a stroller into the caves?
Yes, but only on the Cathedral Cave Tour. The boardwalks and ramps make this 45-minute tour fully accessible for strollers.
Do adventure tours require a waiver for children?
Yes. An adult must sign an activity waiver for any child participating in the Explorer Tour or Adventurer Tour.
Are there bats in the caves?
Yes. Small insectivorous micro-bats live inside the caves. You can often see them roosting in the crevices above the walkways on the Cathedral Cave Tour.