Published on Oct, 2024
I was apprehensive at first booking this tour. Was not sure what to expect but hands down an amazing experience. I went alone but my group was a lot of fun. Would say they were close to my age ranging 40-60. None had done this before but you can see they were all up for adventures. I had gone caving once before but it was a larger self guided cave with plenty of standing areas and was dry. Our tour guide Kale is what elevated the experience to a 10/10. He was funny, easy going and so knowledgeable. I will admit the first cave entrance is daunting. It was far more narrow than I imagined and we had to 'squeeze' to get through it. Once through I felt panicky for a minute but Kale calmly talked us through it, reminding us that so much of caving is mentally challenging instead of physically.
That being said, I would not recommend this if you have a lot of physical challanges. You will be required to crouch, almost crawl, climb rocks and at times squeeze through tighter spots. Some ladder climbing and also go down a short slide but you need to lie on your back or you will hit your face on sharp rocks. It is quite wet in the caves. The area surrounding the caves is also breathtaking. It is a bit of a drive out and you will encounter some gravel/dirt roads but found them in good shape.
This is a tour you should consider. I did rent the boots, gloves and protective suit. I was the only one beside the guid with the suite on but found it was worth it. I was not concerned about ripping my clothes or getting wet. If you bring things from home, I would dress for the cooler temps inside. Wear clothes that are waterproof, as well water proof shoes/boots and some gloves (like garden gloves). I found the rental prices were fair. If you rent the suit, it gives you the peace of mind maneuver as you like and not worry about ruining your clothes.
Thanks Kale for this experience, for the new knowledge and the euphoric feeling of an experience that pushed my mental limitations. I will remember this as a highlight of my trip and can now pat myself on the back for overcoming a fear.