Top 10 Most Beautiful Caves in the World

Caves are perennially enticing - portals to a hidden world and keepers of nature’s secrets. When you dare to delve underground, you’ll find spectacular geology, ancient messages, even subterranean lakes and rivers. Follow us as we go underfoot in the 10 most beautiful caves in the world - no headlamp necessary! 

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1. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Far below the rolling hillsides and farmland of Kentucky, intrepid travelers will find the longest cave system in the world. Tour its various sections and passageways, including the Frozen Niagra, Grand Avenue, and Fat Man’s Misery. The entire cave network spans almost 204 square miles. Take a tour for up to six hours - that’s a lot of caving! The most adventurous tours include visits to more undeveloped areas of the cave and through muddy crawl spaces sure to inspire your inner Indiana Jones. 

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2. The Blue Grotto, Italy 

If you're in Capri, pinch yourself. This absolutely gorgeous southern Italy island is treasure enough on the surface, but when you enter the sea cave known as the Blue Grotto, Capri levels up. Named for the blue glow that comes from the cave entrance, a bigger hole beneath the entrance and the melding of sunlight and sea water, the cave may be visited by one boat at a time. Insider tip: The best time of day to visit the Blue Grotto is between 12 and 2 PM.

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3. Fingal’s Cave, Scotland 

Fingal’s Cave’s hexagonal basalt columns of volcanic origin are mesmerizing. Climb the steep steps to this sea cave’s entrance on the uninhabited Staff Island and you’ll see its distinctive geology, plus incredible views of the surrounding area. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a puffin or two opposite the cave. There’s a cool cathedral-esque ambience here, with the arched roof and the eerie sounds created by the waves in the cave.

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4. Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave, Austria 

The name of this cave means “World of the Ice Giants” in German and you’ll quickly see why when you explore this natural limestone marvel. Within an easy drive of Salzburg, the massive cave contains ice that dates back 1,000 years. Although it's more limestone than ice, Eisriesenwelt is considered the largest ice cave in the world, delving 26 miles into the earth. You can visit it via two trails or a scenic cable car ride. 

5. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Philippines 

One of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is mindboggingly beautiful. You can venture by boat up to 2.4 miles into the cave before it becomes impossible due to lack of oxygen. In that space, however, you can see staggering rock formations, bats, river channels and additional large chambers - including the 1,181-foot Italian Chamber, which is one of the biggest cave rooms in the world. 

6. Reed Flute Cave, China 

The easily accessible Reed Flute Cave is in downtown Guilin. Known for its intricate stalactites and stalagmites, which are set off by colorful lighting, the well-maintained cave is a popular attraction in the region. Look for the inscriptions of the cave walls that date back to the 8th century BCE. There’s one grotto in the cave system - The Crystal Palace of the Dragon King - that can hold up to 1,000 people at a time. 

7. Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand 

One of the most beautiful caves in the world, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves almost feel like you’re outside under a glittery starry sky. You’ll enter the caves by trail, then embark for an underground river boat tour. Look up - the ceiling is home to thousands of glowworms, about the size of a mosquito, who cast a wondrous aura. This is a family favorite! 

8. Skocjan Cave, Slovenia 

Karst is a geologic phenomenon marked by limestone towers, fissures, sinkholes and interesting landforms. Perhaps the most striking examples can be found in the Karst region of Slovenia - and it’s here you’ll find the beautiful Skocjan Cave. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the largest underground canyons in the world and home to a diverse ecosystem. Take the surreal and unforgettable walk into the cave and marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is culturally significant as it is believed to have been inhabited during prehistoric times. 

9. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico 

With more than 100 caves to its name, Carlsbad Caverns beckons to the cave-centric traveler. Take a ranger-led tour along the Big Room Trail or the steeper Natural Entrance Trail. Check out The Devil’s Spring and Iceberg Rock, as well as the renowned Lechuguilla cave, known for its unique rock formations. 

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10. Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes 

You might think trolls before fairies when it comes to erie caves, but the Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes will have you imagining otherwise. The multicolored mineral deposits found with the cave are jaw-dropping, making for a decidedly magical atmosphere. Once you’re back on the earth’s surface, don’t miss the family-friendly fantasy land, the Feenweltchen village, and the interactive Grottoneum museum. 

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