In southwestern Slovenia, where the earth’s surface hides an intricate underground labyrinth, lie the spectacular Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reveals the astonishing interaction between water and rock over millions of years. This karst system, shaped by the relentless Reka River, is home to the largest underground canyon known to date, with depths that defy the imagination. First discovered and systematically explored in the 19th century, the caves not only amazed the geologists of the time, but also sparked a worldwide interest in the enigmas of this hidden landscape.Between their astonishing formations, suspension bridges and echoing passageways, the Škocjan Caves offer a journey that combines the untamed beauty of nature with centuries of history, myth and scientific exploration.
Natural context and history of the karst system with the largest underground canyon in the world
The Škocjan Caves, located in the heart of the Slovenian Karst, are a unique natural treasure recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. This landscape, shaped by the erosion of water on limestone rock over millions of years, represents one of the most impressive karst systems in the world. Its galleries and passages are more than 6 kilometres long, but the highlight is its underground canyon, which reaches a depth of 146 metres, making it the largest underground canyon known to date. Inside, roaring waterfalls and formations such as stalactites and stalagmites create a visual spectacle that looks like something out of another planet.
The underground river Reka, which runs through the caves, has played a crucial role in the creation of these geological wonders. This river disappears underground at the entrance to the caves, leaving a unique ecosystem in its wake and contributing to the formation of extraordinarily shaped passages and caverns. In fact, the term ‘karst’, used to describe such geological formations all over the world, originates from this region.
Since time immemorial, the Škocjan Caves have been a place of fascination and reverence for humans. Archaeological remains found at the entrances indicate that these caves have been used as shelters and ritual spaces since prehistoric times. During the Bronze Age, local communities made symbolic offerings, possibly related to the underground river, which must have been perceived as a mystical portal to a spiritual world. The connection between the natural and the divine at this site reinforces the cultural importance of the caves throughout history.
In later centuries, scientific curiosity began to unravel the mysteries of Škocjan. During the 19th century, the first systematic explorations were carried out, revealing an underground system far more vast and complex than had previously been imagined. This effort not only marked a milestone in the field of geology, but also put the Škocjan Caves on the map of scientific tourism in Europe.
How to get there: an accessible journey to the extraordinary
The Škocjan Caves are easy to reach thanks to their strategic location, only 80 kilometres from Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. From Ljubljana, the caves can be reached by car in just over an hour via the A1 motorway in the direction of Koper, taking the exit towards Divača. For those who prefer public transport, trains and buses connect Ljubljana with the nearby town of Divača, which is just 4 kilometres from the caves.
If you opt for the train, the journey from Ljubljana to Divača takes about an hour and a half, and from there you can walk or take a local bus to the visitor centre. Direct buses from Ljubljana also offer a convenient option, with stops near the caves during the peak tourist season.
For those venturing from other parts of Slovenia or even neighbouring Italy, connections from cities such as Trieste or Piran are equally smooth, making Škocjan an accessible destination for both quick getaways and longer itineraries.
Visit information: what you need to know before you explore
Access to the Škocjan Caves is regulated in order to preserve their delicate ecosystem, so visits are exclusively by guided tours. These tours, available in several languages, last about 1 hour and 30 minutes and allow you to explore the main points of interest of the underground system.
Opening hours vary according to the season: during the summer, the caves are open every day from 09:00 to 16:00, while in winter visits are more limited, with reduced opening hours. It is advisable to book in advance, especially in the busiest months.
Entrance fees vary according to the time of year, from €16 (January, February, March, November and December) to €24 in July and August, with discounts for children, seniors, students and groups. The price includes access to the Škocjan Regional Park, a protected natural area that surrounds the caves and offers trails and viewpoints from which to appreciate the beauty of the karst landscape.
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, as the temperature inside the caves remains a constant 8-10 degrees Celsius all year round.
What to see: from the underground canyon to the mystery of the Reka River
The tour of the Škocjan Caves begins with an introduction to the Tiha Jama (Silent Cave), known for its spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations. These natural sculptures, some over 10 metres high, seem frozen in time, creating an almost magical atmosphere.
As you proceed, the landscape transforms as you enter the Šumeča Jama (Murmuring Cave), where the Reka River takes centre stage. This underground river, which meanders along the galleries, is responsible for creating the imposing underground canyon that defines Škocjan. Crossing the Cerkvenik Bridge, suspended over 50 metres above the river, is one of the most memorable moments of the visit, offering views that combine the immensity of the cave with the power of the water.
Another highlight is the Great Hall, a monumental cavern that looks like something out of an adventure film. Here, the dimensions of the cave reach their maximum expression, with ceilings that exceed 100 metres in height. The explanations of the guides help you understand how water, rock and time have worked together to create this natural spectacle.
Sightseeing in the surroundings: getting to know Slovenian Karst
The region surrounding the Škocjan Caves is full of interesting places to complement your visit. The nearby village of Divača is a good starting point, with its small but charming traditional architecture and the Museum of the Karst Caves, which delves into the geology and history of Škocjan.
For hikers, the Škocjan Regional Park offers trails that wind through the karst terrain, passing natural viewpoints overlooking the Reka River Valley. Among the most recommended trails is the one leading to the Globocak viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the underground canyon and the surrounding mountains.
About 15 kilometres from Škocjan, the Postojna Caves offer an interesting contrast. Although better known and visited, these caves are notable for their underground train system and their focus on the wonders of underground biodiversity, including the enigmatic proteus.
