Nerja Caves — Prehistoric Wonder & Must-Visit Attraction

The Nerja Caves are a formation of karst cavities, originating from the chain of geological processes that took place over the last 5 million years. During the Triassic period, significant quantities of calcareous mud settled on what was once the ancient Mediterranean Sea floor, later transforming into dolomitic limestone marble, which today houses the Nerja Caves.

During the period of Alpine orogeny (end of the Cretaceous - beginning of the Miocene), which began 65 million years ago and lasted until 5 million years ago, the drift between the tectonic plates of Africa and Europe gave rise to the creation of the Baetic mountains, such as Sierra Tejeda and Almijara.

The abundance of rainfall over the last 5 million years (Upper Miocene and Lower Pleistocene) seeped into the fissures of the marble, encouraging its subsequent dissolution. In this way, enormous cavities were formed through which underground waters circulated. Later, due to the undulating relief of the ground, resulting from mountain landslides in the region in question, the underground waters were forced to seek lower layers in order to continue flowing.

As a result, the caves began to fill with carbonate deposits, stalactites and stalagmites. Over the last 800,000 years (Middle Pleistocene and Holocene), the impressive stalactites and stalagmites have formed thanks to the subsequent deposition of calcite.

The deposition processes have created the underground landscape of the Nerja Caves, which can still be admired today 😍.

Recommendations and basic rules for visiting the Cueva de Nerja:

1. Visit the Cueva de Nerja wearing closed shoes with non-slip soles. If you enter wearing unsuitable footwear, you do so entirely at your own risk. Flip-flops are prohibited.
2. The average temperature inside the cave throughout the year is 19ºC.
3. Take care during your visit. The cave has uneven sections and more than 400 steps.
4. Pets are not allowed, except guide dogs.
5. Touching or altering the geological formations is not permitted.
6. The cave art cannot be shown for conservation reasons.
7. Respect the cave's native fauna. Some species are endemic.
8. Eating and drinking are not allowed inside the cave.
9. Do not leave any rubbish behind; remember this is a protected site of great value.
10. Any activity involving damage to the cave or its infrastructure is prohibited.
11. Entry with pushchairs or wheelchairs is prohibited.
12. Do not raise your voice during the visit. Respect other visitors.
13. Access for children under 6 is entirely the responsibility of parents or guardians, who must ensure their safety and behaviour.
14. Please keep pace with the group. Do not overtake the group ahead of you or fall behind the group you are part of.
15. Book your tickets in advance, as the Cueva de Nerja is a very popular place among tourists, so it is advisable to reserve tickets beforehand to avoid unnecessary waiting times.
16. Do not take photographs with flash, as it may damage the cave formations and affect the experience of other visitors. It is recommended to use a photography mode without flash.

Any inappropriate behaviour will result in refusal of entry or immediate removal from the visit. By following these recommendations, you will be able to enjoy a safe and responsible visit to the Cueva de Nerja.