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About the experience
Of everything in the area, this cave has the most to show you — mostly because of its sheer size. It was once a Muisca temple, running roughly 1 km long, 30 m wide and 20 m high, with two main galleries and four chambers divided into sections that give it the look of a factory floor.
It is a natural cave carved by an underground river, which makes it well suited to caving. Because it stays relatively dry there are few stalactites, though you will spot them in places, and small bats live inside.
What's included
- Snack
- Medical assistance cover
- All necessary equipment, internationally certified
- Entrance fees
- Guide and instructor with ecological interpretation
Options and add-ons
The base rate covers a group of 5 to 9 people arriving independently. Add at booking:
- Small group, 2 to 4 people — add USD $4 / COP $13,000 per person
- Round-trip transfer — add USD $12 / COP $39,000 per person
- Rappel descent — add USD $24 / COP $78,000 per person, to enter the cave by rope instead of on foot
Not included
- Round-trip transfer, unless added at booking
Location and transport
Operator: 90 Grados Villa de Leyva. Municipality of Santa Sofía, roughly 25 minutes from Villa de Leyva by 4x4. A 4x4 vehicle is generally needed for the access road. [TO CONFIRM: exact meeting and pickup point]
Duration
1 hour
Difficulty and requirements
- Difficulty: medium to high
- Minimum age: 10 years
- Good health and physical condition required
- Not suitable for anyone with spinal problems or recent surgery, during pregnancy, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with heart conditions, or with a fear of darkness or confined spaces
Price and booking
- From USD $56 / COP $182,000 per person
- [TO CONFIRM: cancellation policy]
Dietary options
A snack is included. [TO CONFIRM: vegetarian options or allergy handling]
Cultural and environmental context
In pre-Columbian times the Muisca recognised this place as a temple for worship and religious ritual, tied to pilgrimages towards Lake Iguaque to honour the goddess Bachué. The name — "factory cave" — comes from the ceramic and fique crafts made here.
Frequently asked questions
How does this differ from the rappel option?
Same cave, different way in. This route walks you through the galleries on foot. The rappel drops you in from above with rope and harness — you can add it here at booking, or book the rappel experience directly.
Is transport included?
Not in the base rate — you can add round-trip transfer at booking for USD $12.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, 10 years.
