About this tour
Explore prehistoric cave art and geology near Sarlat on this three-hour private tour. Start with hands-on demonstrations of how Palaeolithic people made fire, lit caves, and created pigments. Then descend into ancient caves to see ochre handprints and animal paintings stretching back 30,000 years, accessed outside regular visiting hours. Visit a second cave system featuring dramatic mineral formations and fossilised bear claw marks etched into the stone.
Highlights
- Witness ochre paintings and handprints over 30,000 years old
- Learn Palaeolithic fire-making and pigment techniques firsthand
- Private after-hours cave access away from crowds
- Stalactites, stalagmites, and mineral columns underground
- Bear claw marks preserved in stone at second site
- Air-conditioned transport with hotel pickup included
What to expect
Your guide demonstrates ancient survival techniques before you enter the caves. The caves are cool and dark—bring a jumper. You'll walk through chambers of pale mineral formations whilst studying faded pigment marks left by hunter-gatherers. The second cave system shows different geological features and evidence of Ice Age megafauna. Expect uneven footing, low ceilings in places, and minimal artificial lighting to preserve the caves. This isn't a leisurely stroll; it's a proper exploration of subterranean spaces where people actually lived and worked.
Good to know
Not suitable for people with limited mobility. Wear sturdy shoes and warm layers—caves stay around 8°C year-round. Entrance fees to cave sites are separate from the tour price. Afternoon departures available on request. Infant seats provided if needed. Tour departs Sarlat at 9.30am or Les Eyzies at 9.10am.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.