How to get from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves

The Blue Mountains has some wondrous attractions, amazing natural beauty, and a rich history.

Nestled within the Blue Mountains region are these impressive caves called the Jenolan Caves. The caves are an important part of the national park and are also the largest caves in the country.

The Jenolan Caves are the oldest open caves in the world with remarkable limestone formations inside. There are 22 major caves with only 10 that can be explored. You will need to book a guided tour as exploring these caves on your own is dangerous.

Katoomba is a popular Blue Mountains town with beautiful landscapes, major attractions, and plenty of hiking trails. With limited options to get to the Jenolan Caves from Katoomba, it is still easy to get to the caves to explore them.

Public transport is not a current option to get to Jenolan Caves, so these are the best ways to get to the caves from Katoomba.

By car

Driving by car is one of the ways to reach the Jenolan Caves, with the trip taking you about two hours from Katoomba. You can either hire a car or get a taxi/Uber.

Please note that driving down Edith Road isn’t suitable for towing trailers, caravans or vehicles larger than a 12 seater minivan.

If you drive yourself, there is free parking with a short walk to the caves. There is also a free shuttle bus that can pick you up and drop you off at the car park if you need assistance.

Katoomba Falls

Tour

There are tours available with a Katoomba pick up that takes you down to the Jenolan Caves for a guided tour. Booking a tour is a great option as the tours include a guided tour through the caves and you won’t need to drive yourself to the caves.

Katoomba township

Road closures

Over the last few years, parts of the Jenolan Caves Road have been closed after flooding and landslides between 2020 to 2022. With the road closure, you will need to do a detour onto Duckmaloi Road, then Titania Road, before going onto Edith Road.

During your time exploring the Jenolan Caves, you see up to three caves with each one offering a unique experience. Ensure you are wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes that won’t have you slipping in the caves.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.