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Prehistoric cave tours in France

Walking tours

Explore the mysterious depths of France’s prehistoric past with Discover France on our exclusive Prehistoric Cave Tours. Each step brings you closer to the lives and artistry of our ancient ancestors. Our tours, including the Dordogne Walking Tour – Lascaux and Prehistoric Caves, take you through the heart of the Vézère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the world capital of prehistory. This region holds echoes of over 100,000 years of human history, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the dawn of civilization.

The Dordogne region is a treasure trove of prehistoric wonders, from caves adorned with ancient art to medieval castles and picturesque golden villages. A highlight of our tour is the famous Lascaux Caves in France, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory.” While the original cave is closed to the public to preserve its priceless paintings, the Lascaux IV replica provides a stunningly accurate experience. Marvel at intricate depictions of animals and symbols that date back nearly 20,000 years, offering a profound connection to our distant past.

Beyond Lascaux, the journey continues to Les Eyzies, the prehistoric capital of France. Here, you can visit caves such as Font-de-Gaume, one of the few remaining sites with original polychrome paintings open to the public. This prehistoric French cave art, created by Cro-Magnon ancestors, vividly portrays bison, horses, and mammoths. The Combarelles Cave features a labyrinth of engravings, while the Padirac Chasm astounds with its underground river and dramatic caverns.

As you explore these prehistoric caves in France, you’ll also enjoy the region’s rich culture and gastronomy. Sample local delicacies like foie gras, truffles, and Bergerac wines, all integral to Dordogne’s heritage. Whether dining in medieval villages or savoring fresh produce at local markets, these flavors complement your prehistoric journey perfectly.

Our tours offer a balance of exploration and relaxation. Kayak along the Vézère River, swim in its cool waters, or stroll through the verdant countryside. Every moment is a blend of ancient history and modern-day charm, connecting you deeply to the landscapes and stories of the past.

For those seeking to experience the profound history and natural beauty of France, our Prehistoric Cave Tours provide an unforgettable adventure. Discover the famous cave paintings in France and explore the legacy of our ancestors with the comfort and expertise that Discover France brings to every journey.

When embarking on a Prehistoric Cave Tour in France with Discover France, certain sites stand out as “must-see” destinations that truly capture the essence of this ancient and storied region.

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REASONS TO DISCOVER PREHISTORIC CAVE IN FRANCE

A visit to the Lascaux Cave is undoubtedly at the top of the list. Known as the “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory,” Lascaux is world-famous for its remarkable cave paintings, which date back nearly 20,000 years. While the original cave is now closed to protect these delicate artworks, the Lascaux IV replica offers an incredibly detailed and immersive experience. Walking through this full-scale reproduction, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by vivid depictions of galloping horses, majestic bulls, and mysterious symbols, all painstakingly recreated to provide an authentic glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our prehistoric ancestors.

The Font-de-Gaume Cave is another essential stop on your journey. This site is one of the few remaining caves in France with original polychrome paintings still open to the public. The artworks here, which include striking images of bison, horses, and mammoths, were created by Cro-Magnon people over 17,000 years ago. Visiting Font-de-Gaume is a rare opportunity to see these ancient masterpieces in their original setting, and the experience is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

For those fascinated by prehistoric engravings, the Combarelles Cave offers a unique experience. This narrow, winding cave is adorned with over 600 engravings, depicting a rich variety of animals and abstract symbols. The journey through Combarelles feels like an adventure straight out of an Indiana Jones movie, as you delve deeper into the nearly 1,000-foot-long cave, discovering the intricate carvings that tell stories of a world long gone.

Another site that should not be missed is the Rouffignac Cave, often referred to as the “Cave of 100 Mammoths.” This extensive network of underground passages is home to over 250 prehistoric artworks, including numerous depictions of mammoths, as well as rhinos, horses, and deer. An electric train takes visitors through the cave, making it accessible while still providing an unforgettable journey into the past. The highlight of Rouffignac is undoubtedly “The Great Ceiling,” a hidden gallery where you can gaze up at a spectacular array of animal drawings that have endured for more than 13,000 years.

For those seeking a different kind of subterranean experience, the Padirac Chasm is a geological wonder that leaves a lasting impression. While not a site of prehistoric art, the Chasm is renowned for its breathtaking underground river, which visitors can explore by boat. The descent into the Chasm, followed by a journey through its towering caverns and crystal-clear waters, is an adventure that showcases the natural beauty of the Dordogne region.

These sites, each with their own unique story, form the heart of our Prehistoric Cave Tours in Dordogne. They offer a rare and intimate connection to the distant past, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors and witness the art and ingenuity that have survived millennia. With Discover France, you’ll explore these “must-see” destinations in a way that is both deeply informative and profoundly moving, ensuring that your journey through prehistoric France is one you will never forget.