
Gunns Plains Caves
Explore the mystical Gunns Plains Caves, a subterranean wonderland of limestone formations and an underground river, culminating in a magical glow wor...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Gunns Plains Caves
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the mystical Gunns Plains Caves, a subterranean wonderland of limestone formations and an underground river, culminating in a magical glow worm display.
"One of the best caves I’ve been too in Australia, with a hilarious guide and incredible formations!"

Wear Comfortable Shoes
The illuminated walkways can be damp. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the cave safely. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guide
Guides are knowledgeable and often hilarious! They share fascinating facts and ensure everyone has a great experience. :microphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stalactites and Stalagmites
Main cave chambers
Marvel at the intricate limestone formations sculpted over millennia, creating a subterranean wonderland.

Underground River
Cave floor
Witness the gentle flow of an underground river, a vital element in shaping these magnificent caverns.

Glow Worms
End of the tour path
Be enchanted by the subtle, natural light show of glow worms illuminating the cave ceiling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Combine with Local Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The illuminated walkways can be damp. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the cave safely. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guide
Guides are knowledgeable and often hilarious! They share fascinating facts and ensure everyone has a great experience. :microphone:
Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning formations, but be mindful of lighting conditions. Some areas may have restrictions. :camerawithflash:
Check Tour Times
Tours run regularly, but it's wise to confirm the schedule online or by phone to plan your visit. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The illuminated walkways can be damp. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the cave safely. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guide
Guides are knowledgeable and often hilarious! They share fascinating facts and ensure everyone has a great experience. :microphone:
Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning formations, but be mindful of lighting conditions. Some areas may have restrictions. :camerawithflash:
Check Tour Times
Tours run regularly, but it's wise to confirm the schedule online or by phone to plan your visit. :iphone:
Combine with Wildlife Park
Wings Wildlife Park is nearby and a great addition for a family-friendly day out. :park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gunns Plains Caves for their spectacular limestone formations and the engaging, humorous guided tours. The value for money is highlighted, with tours lasting about an hour and offering a memorable experience. The glow worm display is a unique and enchanting finale.
"Our tour was unbelievable, hands down one of the best caves I’ve been too in Australia. Our tour guide Trish was hilarious, knew how to make us all laugh, have a good time and give a tonne of information about the caves. One thing I love is that these guys know how to give you and incredible experience as well as have a fun time doing it, definitely will be coming back and referring anyone who visits to see you guys! Thanks again Trish !"
Jordy “Outdoorkindaguy”
"Good value for the entry fee, tour went for approx an hour and the cave is very interesting and you see a fair bit! Worth the trip if you're in the area, great to combine with other activities to make a day of it.
Parking was good and there was toilets at the entry. We had a large group made up of multiple smaller groups, but the guide did a good job of making sure everyone saw things and rotated front people etc. Glow worms are cool to see at the end."
Lauren Burk
"Great tour for $20. Ben was very knowledgeable and approachable about the caves and the area. Spectacular formations. We drove in from Burnie and out through Ulverstone, both great drives."
Bob Ottaway
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gunns Plains Caves are approximately a 30-minute drive from Ulverstone. The drive is scenic, often recommended to be combined with other local attractions like Leven Canyon or Wings Wildlife Park. :car:
Yes, there is ample parking available at the entrance of the Gunns Plains Caves, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. :parking:
Public transport options are limited to reach Gunns Plains Caves. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange private transport for the most convenient access. :bus:
You can drive from Burnie to Gunns Plains Caves, and it's considered a great drive. Many visitors combine this with a route out through Ulverstone. :road:
While not always advertised, some local tour operators in Burnie or Ulverstone might offer packages that include Gunns Plains Caves. It's best to inquire directly with them. :tour_bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the guided tour is generally considered good value, around $20 per adult. It's always best to check the official Gunns Plains Caves website for the most current pricing. :ticket:
Booking your guided tour in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to ensure your spot. You can usually book online through their official website. :computer:
The caves are typically open for guided tours, but operating hours can vary. It's essential to check the official Gunns Plains Caves website for the most up-to-date tour times and operating days. :clock:
Information on discounts for seniors, children, or families is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking for any special offers or group rates. :moneywithwings:
No, access to the Gunns Plains Caves is exclusively via guided tours. This ensures the preservation of the cave environment and provides visitors with valuable information. :walking:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour of Gunns Plains Caves typically lasts for approximately one hour, offering a comprehensive exploration of the cave system. :timer:
The tour involves walking along illuminated pathways. While generally manageable, wear comfortable, non-slip shoes as the surfaces can be damp. :sneakers:
Yes, there are toilets located at the entrance of the Gunns Plains Caves, providing essential facilities for visitors. :toilet:
Photography is generally permitted inside the caves, but it's advisable to use your phone's camera or a camera with good low-light capabilities. Avoid using flash photography to protect the glow worms and delicate formations. :camera:
You'll see magnificent limestone formations like stalactites and stalagmites, an underground river, and a colony of glow worms at the end of the tour. :sparkles:
📸 📸 Photography
Given the low light, use a wider aperture (lower f-number) and a higher ISO setting. A tripod can be helpful if allowed, but many visitors use their phones effectively. :camerawithflash:
It's best to avoid using flash photography, especially in areas with glow worms, as it can disturb them and affect the natural ambiance. Check with your guide for specific rules. :no_flash:
Video recording is usually allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and the tour guide's instructions. Capture the unique atmosphere without disrupting the experience. :movie_camera:
Visitors often capture the dramatic limestone formations, the reflections in the underground river, and the ethereal glow of the glow worms. :art:
Your guide will often point out the best spots for photos. The illuminated walkway provides excellent vantage points for capturing the cave's grandeur. :eye:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Guides are often noted for being great with children, incorporating humor and engaging stories to keep them entertained throughout the approximately one-hour tour. It's a great way to introduce kids to geology and natural wonders in a safe and accessible environment. Consider combining the cave visit with the nearby Wings Wildlife Park for a full day of family fun.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Many visitors recommend combining the cave tour with other local attractions such as Leven Canyon, Preston Falls, or Wings Wildlife Park, all of which are in the same general area. This allows for a comprehensive exploration of the region and makes for a memorable day out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While flash photography is discouraged, especially near the glow worms, using a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with advanced camera features can yield excellent results. Your guide can often point out the best angles and viewpoints for capturing the cave's beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Gunns Plains Caves
The cave system is renowned for its well-preserved formations, offering a glimpse into the slow, persistent work of nature. The calcite deposits that form these speleothems grow at an incredibly slow rate, sometimes only a few millimeters per century. This makes the formations within Gunns Plains Caves ancient and precious, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Visitors often express awe at the sheer scale and detail of the formations. The guided tours are designed to highlight these geological wonders, with guides explaining the processes behind their creation and the timeline involved. It’s a fascinating intersection of natural history and a must-see for anyone interested in the earth's processes.
Experiencing the Glow Worms
To best appreciate the glow worms, it's important to follow your guide's instructions regarding light and noise. Flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can disturb the glow worms and diminish their luminescence. Visitors are encouraged to let their eyes adjust to the darkness to fully absorb the subtle, natural light show.
Many visitors describe the glow worm experience as a highlight of their visit, a quiet and wondrous moment that adds a touch of magic to the subterranean adventure. It’s a gentle reminder of the diverse and often hidden wonders of the natural world.
The Role of Guides
These guides play a crucial role in making the visit both educational and enjoyable. They share fascinating anecdotes, point out intricate details in the formations, and ensure that all visitors, regardless of their position in the group, get a good view. Their ability to engage a diverse audience, including families, is a recurring theme in reviews.
Beyond just providing information, the guides contribute to the overall atmosphere of the caves, making the experience feel personal and memorable. Their enthusiasm is infectious, turning a simple cave tour into an engaging adventure.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit