Skip-the-Line Caves of San José Half-Day Trip from Valencia
Discover hidden Spanish waterways, stalactite cathedrals, and Iberian ruins with an expert guide
Escape the city for a half-day adventure into a massive cave system hidden in the Sierra de Espadán mountains. Skip the entry line then board a small boat to glide along an underground river, passing through illuminated tunnels and limestone rooms that feel like another planet. After the boat ride, explore the dry walking paths to see towering stalagmites and visit ancient hilltop ruins with great views. Round-trip transportation and tickets are provided to guarantee the best experience.
What You Get With This Tour
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Skip-the-line cave entry
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Expert English-speaking guide
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Subterranean boat tour
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Round-trip air-conditioned transport
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Dry gallery walking tour
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Iberian settlement access
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Spain's hidden river, found easily
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Guide tips
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Food and drink
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at the Torres de Serranos
Meet your guide at the base of these massive 14th-century Gothic gates in central Valencia. You’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus for a 45-minute drive north into the Sierra de Espadán mountains, where the hidden cave entrance is located. -
2
Navigate the underground river by boat
Board a small boat to travel 850 meters along Europe's longest navigable underground river. You’ll drift through flooded limestone passages, passing the echoing "cathedral" chamber where the ceiling is covered in thousands of hanging stalactites. -
3
Explore the cave paths on foot
Next, you’ll step onto dry ground to walk through the upper cave system. Your guide will show you towering stalagmites and UNESCO-listed prehistoric art while explaining how these massive rock chambers were shaped by water over millions of years. -
4
Take in the views from the Iberian settlement
Enjoy 30 minutes of free time to hike up to the ruins of an ancient Iberian village perched directly above the cave entrance. From this archaeological site, you can see panoramic views of the entire natural park and the valley below. -
5
Your tour finishes at the Torres de Serranos
Finally, you’ll return to Valencia where your excursion concludes at the historic city gates. You’ll leave the bus in the heart of the city, perfectly located to enjoy lunch or more sightseeing after your subterranean adventure.
Additional Information
Good to know:
Accessibility: This tour involves ancient ground and uneven terrain. It is unfortunately not wheelchair or stroller accessible. A soft baby carrier is recommended.
Dress Code: We recommend comfortable clothing and walking shoes. The temperature inside the caves remains a constant 20°C year-round.
Please Note: This tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from claustrophobia. Photography is only allowed in designated areas, and flash is prohibited to protect the cave fauna.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your 4-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Round-trip transport in an air-conditioned bus
Skip-the-line entry ticket to the Caves of San José
Guided boat trip through the underground river
Guided walk through the dry cave galleries
30 minutes of free time to explore the Iberian archeological site
Maximum group size of 50
What to bring:
Snack/drinks or packed lunch
Comfortable walking shoes
Camera
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, this excursion is great for families as children of all ages are welcome.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
This tour is not wheelchair accessible because it involves boarding small boats and walking on uneven cave floors. If you have significant mobility issues, navigating the walking paths inside the galleries may be difficult.
How should I dress for the cave?
The interior of the cave remains at a pleasant 20°C all year. We recommend wearing comfortable, layered clothing and non-slip walking shoes, as the floor in the walking sections can be damp from natural dripping.
Can I take photos inside the caves?
Photography is allowed, but only in designated areas to protect the delicate cave environment. Please ensure your flash is turned off at all times, as bright artificial light can harm the local fauna and the ancient cave paintings.
Is there swimming on this tour?
No, swimming is not allowed in the Caves of San José. The underground river is experienced entirely by boat to protect the delicate natural environment and ensure your safety.
