Wombeyan Caves

Deep in the Southern Highlands, Wombeyan Caves is a hidden wonderland of limestone caverns, lush bushland, and starry night skies. Unlike the more famous Jenolan Caves, Wombeyan feels delightfully off-the-radar — you'll often have the winding underground passages almost to yourself. The drive in is an adventure in itself, winding through eucalyptus forests and past kangaroos grazing at dusk.

Highlights & What to See

• Fig Tree Cave – The star attraction: a vast, well-lit cavern with colossal stalactites, stalagmites, and a natural bridge. The guided tour is excellent, weaving in geology and local lore.
• Wollondilly Cave – A more adventurous, wild cave experience. You'll crawl, climb, and squeeze through narrow passages — bring a sense of adventure and old clothes.
• Self-guided walks – Above ground, the Koorongara Lookout offers sweeping views over the valley, and the short Junction Track leads to a peaceful creek crossing.
• Camping under the stars – The on-site campground is basic but atmospheric. Book a spot and you'll have the caves virtually to yourself after day-trippers leave.
• Wildlife spotting – Eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, and lyrebirds are common. Listen for the lyrebird's incredible mimicry in the early morning.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day: a morning tour of Fig Tree Cave, a picnic lunch, and an afternoon exploring the above-ground walks or the more challenging Wollondilly tour. If you're camping, two days allow you to see both caves and enjoy a relaxed evening around the campfire. The caves are small enough that you won't need more than that unless you're a serious caver.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jenolan Caves – The granddaddy of Australian cave systems, about 90 minutes away via a scenic but winding road. Combine for a cave-themed road trip.
• Kanangra-Boyd National Park – Dramatic sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and wilderness walks. The drive from Wombeyan is one of the region's most beautiful.
• Berrima – A historic village with sandstone buildings, antique shops, and excellent pubs. A perfect lunch stop on the way to or from the caves.
• Bowral – The heart of the Southern Highlands, known for its gardens, cafes, and the annual Tulip Time festival. Easy to add a morning or afternoon.
• Mittagong – Gateway to the Highlands, with a charming main street and the famous Mount Gibraltar Reserve for panoramic views.

Please check official sources for current details.