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Ciemna Cave is the second longest cave in Ojcow National Park (209 meters). It is famous for its valuable archaeological finds (Neanderthal tooth), and an additional attraction is the reconstructed Neanderthal camp next to the cave.
Getting to Ciemna Cave
Tickets for the cave are bought at the ticket office at the bottom of the valley. For larger groups, it's a good idea to book a specific day and time in advance. Near the ticket office, there are a few benches and a paid toilet. The walk from the ticket office to the cave takes about 10-15 minutes. The path leads up fairly steep stone steps along the green trail.
Touring Ciemna Cave
We visit Ciemna Cave with a guide. Tours start on the hour, and the entire visit, including the Neanderthal camp, takes about 30 minutes.
- There is no electric lighting in the cave, the guide provides the only light source.
- The cave chambers are on one level - no stairs inside.
- There are no narrow passages in Ciemna Cave, and the paths are wide and comfortable. The ground is relatively even, but as with all limestone rocks: it can be damp and slippery.
- As in every cave, there is a constant temperature of about 7°C, so it's worth bringing warmer clothes.
- To protect the hibernating bats (there are almost 1000 here!), the cave is closed from autumn to spring. Check the current opening dates on the OPN website >>>.
Cave Formations in Ciemna Cave
Since Ciemna Cave has been visited by tourists since the 18th century, the natural formations like stalactites and stalagmites have been almost completely destroyed. Only what couldn't be taken remains...
Venomous Spider - Cave Spider
When leaving the cave, take a close look at the rocks near the entrance. This is the favorite spot of Poland's most venomous spider: the cave spider (meta menardi), which waits here for its prey and creates characteristic hanging egg cocoons (there are about 400-500 of them!).
Ciemna Cave - Neanderthal Camp
Next to the entrance to Ciemna Cave, there is a metal viewing platform and a reconstruction of the Neanderthal camp (entry with a cave tour ticket).
Ciemna Cave - Viewing Point
From the metal platform at the Neanderthal camp, you can see the Pradnik Valley "from a bird's eye view", the Krakow Gate, and the Love Spring.
Since the famous "glove" rock is right next to the cave entrance, it's hard to see it from this spot (and capture it with a camera). It's much better to walk a few more meters up (5-10 minutes on the green trail) to a point where it's best visible:
Return from Ciemna Cave to Pradnik Valley
After visiting Ciemna Cave, you can return to Pradnik Valley the same way, or continue along the green trail and descend near Puchaczowka. It will be beautiful and scenic!
Difficult
Ojców - Green Educational Trail
Other Caves Around Ojcow
If you enjoy visiting caves, see what other attractions they hold!
Caves in Krakow and around Krakow
The area around Krakow is rich in caves, grottos, and rocky hideouts. Some can be visited with a guide and are commercial, but there are quite a few "open" and publicly accessible grottos. ...
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