Amazing Caves: Visit 10 Underground Wonders

Nature lovers are most at home outside of cities, and nothing is quite so satisfying as finding new, sublime landscapes to explore. We search for the most stunning places: imposing waterfalls, immense mountain ranges and pristine lakes. But don’t forget about the many treasures the world has prepared for us which are hidden from sight, stored underground. Are you ready to discover extraordinary, amazing caves? A local guide can get you there safely, and help you learn about the region's geological history on a private tour to any of these wondrous places.

Top Ten Amazing Caves

1. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand One of New Zealand's most fascinating destinations are the Waitomo Twin Caves, hidden just under lush green hills and home to the unique glow worms which make this place a piece of natural art. Maorí culture refers to water as “Wai” and to hole as “Tomo”, hence the name “Waitomo”. Pair a visit to the caves with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set (from Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit trilogies).

2. Blue Grotto, Italy If you go from Sorrento to Capri it’s easy to be captivated by the amazing views of Mt Vesuvius, one of the world’s most famous volcanoes. But be patient, for the voyage is just starting! Once you get to the island of Capri, you’ll understand why so many people embark on small boats that suddenly seem to disappear under the rocks. Here you can choose between the White, Green and Blue Grotto - the last one is the most incredible, famous around the world for its electric blue light.

3. Benagil Sea Caves, Portugal Located in the famous Algarve region in southern Portugal, Benagil Caves sound like a perfect day trip from the nearby cities of Lagos, Faro and Albufeira. This cave is accessible by sea, but although it is located just around 150 meters from the beach, it is not recommended to try to swim to it, since the Atlantic Ocean water here is very cold, waves are strong and there are many boats which are not willing to give swimmers any priority. Many travelers prefer other ways of getting into the cave, like renting a small boat, kayak or going paddle-boarding. It has two entrances from the water and a natural opening in the dome which allows the sun to get in and heat water and visitors.

4. Caves of Drach, Spain Mallorca is not just about white sandy beaches and wild parties. You’ll need to go to the far east side of the island in order to visit one of its highlights, the Caves of Drach and its hidden treasure, Lake Martel. Are you ready to take a small boat underground and be the privileged witness of a semi-private classical concert? Sounds too magical to be true… but that's the way it is in this journey underground in Mallorca.

5. Postojna Caves, Slovenia Imagine getting to ride on an open train that allows you to comfortably admire the beauty of one of the world's largest Karst monuments. This is the experience that awaits you in Postojna, one of the grandest and most well known caves in all of Europe, and perhaps the world. Galleries, giant halls and passages dripping with stalagmites create a unique natural atmosphere that nobody should miss. Don’t forget to combine this visit with the Gama Castle, an architectural marvel built into the rockwall not far from Postojna.

6. Puerto Princesa Underground River, Philippines The Philippines is proud to have one of the “new natural wonders of the world” thanks to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This famous underground river is the longest navigable subterranean river in the world, and its brilliant turquoise color will leave you with no need for Instagram filters! Once you get into the cave, bold stalactite and stalagmite formations await.

7. Cave of the Crystals, Mexico If you’re trying to find off the beaten path caves, you definitely need to plan to go to the State of Chihuahua in Mexico to be face to face with some of the largest natural crystals ever found. Can you imagine standing in front of crystals more than 11 metres long? Accessibility depends on the mine’s water pumps, and since 2015 it has been reflooded with rich mineral water so that these crystals can continue growing, which means you’ll need to wait a little while longer until you can visit it again. When it was accessible, conditions were extreme with temperatures going over 50 degrees and humidity levels almost reaching 100%.

8. Son Doong Cave, Vietnam The world's largest cave shouldn’t be left off our list, but Son Doong, which stands for “Mountain River Cave”, is impressive for more than just its size. Prepare yourself to cross underground rivers and rainforests in order to discover the main highlight of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, located 450 kilometers south from Hanoi.

9. Batu Caves, Malaysia Batu Caves consist of three major caves and some smaller ones, but is also a cultural attraction. It's actually one of the most popular hindu temples in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city, and 272 steps through a limestone hill is the price we need to pay in order to get to the main temple. Lace up your walking shoes and get ready!

10- Fingal's Cave, Scotland Fingal's Cave is a sea cave located on the island of Staffa, Scotland, famous for its natural acoustics. If you’re lucky and there are good weather conditions, you can embark on a sightseeing cruise which may also let you get to the island´s landing place and walk to the cave to appreciate the unusual fractured columns which sound out a welcoming greeting, like a seaworn pipe organ.