Yarrangobilly Caves
Discover ancient limestone caves with stunning formations and relax in a natural thermal pool within Kosciuszko National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Yarrangobilly Caves
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient limestone caves with stunning formations and relax in a natural thermal pool within Kosciuszko National Park.
"Amazing experience! Highly recommend the 2 tours pass for an immersive journey."
Bring a Torch! 🔦
Essential for self-guided tours to see formations clearly. Phone lights work too!
Dress in Layers 🧥
Caves are cool year-round. Warm clothing is recommended for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jersey Cave Tour
Guided Tour
Explore stunning formations with an enthusiastic guide sharing history and science. A truly immersive experience.
South Glory Hole Cave
Self-Guided
Discover impressive limestone formations at your own pace. Bring a torch for better visibility.
Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool
Near Visitor Centre
Relax in a naturally heated pool (27°C) surrounded by bushland. A perfect way to unwind after exploring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Guided Tours in Advance
Prepare for Cave Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Yarrangobilly Caves in late June? 2WD Access
Bring a Torch! 🔦
Essential for self-guided tours to see formations clearly. Phone lights work too!
Dress in Layers 🧥
Caves are cool year-round. Warm clothing is recommended for comfort.
Cave recommendations
Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pools - Mt Kosciuszko National Park NSW
Book Guided Tours 🎟️
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge and a better experience.
Watch Your Head! ⚠️
Low-hanging stalactites can be a hazard. Be mindful of your surroundings.
Suggestions on Caves to explore around Canberra?
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Torch! 🔦
Essential for self-guided tours to see formations clearly. Phone lights work too!
Dress in Layers 🧥
Caves are cool year-round. Warm clothing is recommended for comfort.
Book Guided Tours 🎟️
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge and a better experience.
Watch Your Head! ⚠️
Low-hanging stalactites can be a hazard. Be mindful of your surroundings.
Thermal Pool Dip 🏊♀️
Don't miss the 27°C thermal pool for a relaxing soak.
Limited Cell Service 📶
Visitor centre has limited WiFi for bookings/maps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural formations within Yarrangobilly Caves, with guided tours receiving particular praise for their informative and engaging guides. The unique thermal pool is a consistent highlight, offering a relaxing experience. Some visitors note that self-guided tours can be quite dark, requiring a good torch.
"We went during the off-peak season, so it felt almost like having a private tour guide. We learned about how the caves were formed, the types of stone they’re made of, and the different forms of stalagmites — including their names. Loved it! The self-guided cave was a bit too dark, even with a torch, so watch your step on the stairs. Some stalagmite straws hang quite low, so be careful not to bump your head."
cakestop 1
"Amazing experience!! I HIGHLY recommend the 2 tours pass. I am traveling on a tight budget so almost thought about skipping the guided tour, but Im so glad that I didnt. Mindy was a phenomenal guide - kind, great sense of humor, and extremely knowledgeable about the history and science of the caves. Im also a tour guide and I was truly impressed by Mindy's Jersey Cave tour. I went in the off season (last week of oct) and it was just me, one other traveler and Mindy! How cool is that!? Id assume there are larger tours during peak. The self guided tour was also really epic. But def bring a torch or phone light because you need it supplement the limited light in the caves. Plus it makes it more of an adventure!
Last thing in case you're worried about the lack of cell service surrounding the area. There is some limited wifi at the visitor center if ya need to book campsites or update your Google maps"
Kris P
"A wonderful family adventure was had at Yarrangobilly last week.
We opted for the self guided tour rather than risk our 3 young children interrupting an organised group.
Marvel at the natural limestone formations and the surrounding bushlands. You may even see some wildlife! Even the kids were impressed!
The walk is easy enough to do with handrails etc but check in with the visitor centre first to decide which tour is best for you and your group. There are 3 seperate caves to explore and all are different from each other.
Dress warmly as it’s obviously cooler with in the cave system.
Also if you’re prepared, try a dip in the thermal pool that has a consistent temperature of 27 degrees 🔥"
SARGES’ Family
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yes, the road to Yarrangobilly Caves is generally manageable with a 2WD vehicle, even in winter. While some sections might be a bit rough, chains are typically not required.
The drive from Sydney to Yarrangobilly Caves is approximately 5-6 hours. You'll typically take the Hume Highway south and then follow signs towards Kosciuszko National Park.
Yes, the roads are usually accessible in winter. However, it's always wise to check local road conditions before you travel, especially if there's been recent snowfall.
Yarrangobilly Caves are located about 1.5 to 2 hours drive from Tumut, NSW, making it a feasible day trip or stopover.
Yes, there are camping facilities available at Yarrangobilly. You can book campsites through the visitor centre or online.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the national park requires a fee. Cave tours have separate costs, with options for self-guided and guided tours. A '2-tour pass' is often recommended for value.
It's highly recommended to book guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. Self-guided tours may have more flexibility.
The visitor centre and cave tour times vary. It's best to check the official Kosciuszko National Park website or contact the visitor centre for the most up-to-date opening hours and tour schedules.
Yes, Yarrangobilly Caves offers both self-guided tours (like South Glory Hole) and guided tours (like Jersey Cave), each providing a unique experience.
Yes, you can typically purchase park entry passes and cave tour tickets at the Yarrangobilly Caves visitor centre. However, booking ahead is advised for guided tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Jersey Cave tour is highly recommended for its guided experience and impressive formations. For self-guided exploration, the South Glory Hole cave is a popular choice.
The Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool is generally open year-round, offering a consistent 27°C temperature. It's a fantastic spot to relax after exploring the caves.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. Caves are cooler than the outside temperature, so a jacket or sweater is advisable.
Yes, families can enjoy the caves. The self-guided tours are often preferred to avoid disrupting organized groups. Handrails are present, but supervision is key.
Keep an eye out for native Australian wildlife in the surrounding bushland. Kangaroos and various bird species are commonly spotted.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining facilities directly at Yarrangobilly Caves. It's best to bring your own food and drinks, or plan to dine in nearby towns like Tumut or Adaminaby.
Yes, picnic areas are available near the visitor centre and thermal pool, making it a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
Nearby towns offer country pubs and cafes. For a wider selection, consider dining in Cooma or Tumut before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the caves for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the formations. Always check signage.
The thermal pool area offers scenic shots, especially with the surrounding landscape. Inside the caves, focus on capturing the unique stalactites and stalagmites.
A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions inside the caves, but be mindful of space. A good quality phone camera with a torch function can also yield great results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress warmly as caves are cool, and bring a torch or phone light for better viewing. The thermal pool is a huge hit with kids, providing a fun and relaxing break. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the surrounding parklands, adding another layer of excitement to the visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as dining options are limited and can be costly. The thermal pool is a free and wonderful amenity to enjoy, offering a relaxing experience without extra charge. Camping at the Yarrangobilly campground is also a budget-friendly accommodation choice.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Exploring the self-guided caves allows for quiet contemplation and personal discovery. The thermal pool is a perfect spot to relax and reflect on your adventures. The limited Wi-Fi at the visitor centre can be useful for checking in or planning your next move.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Yarrangobilly Caves System
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the South Glory Hole Cave offers a self-guided adventure. While the natural formations are spectacular, the lighting can be dim, making a personal torch or phone flashlight essential for a thorough exploration. Be sure to watch your step on the stairs and be mindful of low-hanging stalactites to avoid bumping your head.
Beyond the caves themselves, the surrounding Kosciuszko National Park offers beautiful bushland scenery. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like kangaroos and various bird species as you explore the area. The visitor centre provides maps and information to help you plan your cave visits and make the most of your time in this natural wonderland.
The Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool Experience
Accessing the thermal pool is straightforward, with facilities typically available near the visitor centre. Visitors often describe the experience as a delightful contrast to the cooler cave temperatures, making it a must-do activity for many. Whether you're visiting in warmer months or during a cooler season, the thermal pool provides a consistently pleasant bathing experience.
While the pool itself is a major draw, the surrounding area also offers opportunities for short walks and enjoying the natural beauty. It's a great place to picnic and simply enjoy the peaceful environment. Remember to bring your swimwear and a towel to make the most of this unique natural spa.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
Comfort is key during your visit. The caves maintain a cool temperature year-round, so dressing in layers is essential. For self-guided tours, bringing your own torch or using a reliable phone flashlight is crucial for navigating the darker sections and appreciating the intricate formations. Be mindful of your surroundings to avoid low-hanging stalactites.
Connectivity can be limited in the area, with only intermittent Wi-Fi available at the visitor centre. It's advisable to download offline maps and confirm any bookings before you arrive. The visitor centre is also your go-to for park entry passes, cave tour tickets, and essential information about the caves and surrounding park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit