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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. It runs 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, which is where the name comes from.
It is a natural cave carved out by an underground river. 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.
- Round-trip transfer (group of 5–9) — add USD $8 / COP $26,000
- Small group, 2 to 4 people — add USD $8 / COP $26,000
- Small group with transfer — add USD $20 / COP $65,000
Note that transfer costs more for a smaller group, so the two upgrades combined are priced as a single option rather than added together.
Not included
- Round-trip transfer, unless added at booking
Location and transport
Operator: 90 Grados Villa de Leyva. Located in the 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]
Schedule
[TO CONFIRM: available departure times]
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 $76 / COP $247,000 per person
- [TO CONFIRM: cancellation and rescheduling 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. Its heritage, natural, cultural and anthropological significance comes from its role in pilgrimages towards Lake Iguaque to honour the goddess Bachué. The name Cueva de la Fábrica — "factory cave" — comes from the ceramic and fique crafts the Muisca made here.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the rappel and the cave exploring option?
[TO CONFIRM: the source data gives both products the same base description — clarify the exact difference in activity and level with the operator]
Is transport included?
Not in the base rate — you can add round-trip transfer at booking.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, 10 years.
Is it suitable if I am claustrophobic?
No, it is not recommended for anyone with a fear of confined spaces.
