Tantanoola caves conservation
Tantanoola caves conservation

Explore Tantanoola Caves: South Australia's wheelchair-accessible cave

  • 01 Nov. 2024
  • 3 min read

If you're exploring South Australia's South East, you'll find stunning natural wonders like caves, sinkholes, and crater lakes. But few places offer the accessibility that makes Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park stand out.

A unique, wheelchair-accessible cave experience

Unlike most caves that require visitors to navigate steep stairs or uneven surfaces, Tantanoola Cave is one of Australia’s few wheelchair-accessible caves. Thanks to carefully designed ramps, people of all abilities, including those using wheelchairs or walking aids, can enjoy the wonder of these remarkable formations. Visitors can simply roll or walk into the cave without the worry of tackling stairs or difficult terrain.

Upon arrival, enjoy a spe­cial host­ed expe­ri­ence as a knowl­edge­able guide intro­duces you to the his­to­ry and geol­o­gy of the caves and explains how its spec­tac­u­lar array of for­ma­tions has devel­oped over thou­sands of years. You are then free to stroll through the large cav­ern at your leisure and take photographs.

Explore Tantanoola Caves: South Australia's wheelchair-accessible cave
Image courtesy of Emily.

As you enter the cavern, you’ll be struck by the stunning display of speleothems—delicate cave decorations that range from delicate pinks to deep browns, coloured by the cave’s dolomite base rock. The famous "Up and Down Rocks" formation is a must-see, showcasing nature's intricate artistry.

Tantanoola Cave is nestled within a cliff face and offers an extraordinary glimpse into South Australia’s geological history. Visitors can wander through the large, accessible cavern, taking photos and soaking in the beauty of the space.

Explore more than just the cave

The experience doesn’t end underground. Above the cave, you’ll find picnic spots perfect for a relaxing day out. For those who want to stretch their legs, the cliff-top walking trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the region from both above and below ground.

Plan your visit

Tantanoola Caves is a 25 minute drive from Mount Gambier and offers easy online bookings to secure your spot. Whether you're visiting during school holidays or on a quiet weekend, this family-friendly location is a must-see. You can explore the caves at your own pace and make use of the excellent picnic and walking areas for a full day of adventure.

While tickets can also be purchased on arrival the park, advanced bookings are recommended.

Explore Tantanoola Caves: South Australia's wheelchair-accessible cave
Photo courtesy of Rhisang Alfarid

Opening Hours:

  • September to April: Open daily from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm (Closed on Christmas Day).
  • May to August: Open on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
  • School Holidays & Public Holidays: Open for South Australia and Victoria school holidays and all public holidays.

Whether you’re after a unique cave experience or a scenic day out, Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park offers something for everyone—making it one of South Australia’s most impressive and accessible natural wonders.

Interested in exploring other regional parks? Discover 13 regional parks with accessible facilities.

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