Gunns Plains Caves
1 / 10

Gunns Plains Caves

4.8
·561 reviews·Gunns Plains, Australia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-morning tours

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Gunns Plains Caves

Gunns Plains Caves

Best Time

Mid-morning tours

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.8
(561 reviews)

"One of the best caves I’ve been too in Australia, with a hilarious guide and incredible formations!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stalactites and Stalagmites

Stalactites and Stalagmites

Main cave chambers

Marvel at the intricate limestone formations sculpted over millennia, creating a subterranean wonderland.

Underground River

Underground River

Cave floor

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

Glow Worms

Glow Worms

End of the tour path

Be enchanted by the subtle, natural light show of glow worms illuminating the cave ceiling.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking your guided tour ahead of time is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check their official website for the latest tour schedules and booking options.

Combine with Local Attractions

Gunns Plains Caves are often visited as part of a larger itinerary in Tasmania's Northwest. Consider pairing your cave visit with nearby Wings Wildlife Park or a scenic drive through the Leven Canyon for a full day of exploration.

Best Times

When
Mid-morning tours
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon tours
Why
Good for combining activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Gunns plains caves Nw Tasmania #Tasmania #phonephotography #discovertasmania #tasmania #photography
krisgarrettvisualmedia
7 likes • 406 views

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:

Gunns Plains Caves. 1 hour guided tour throughout with a stop to see the glow worms right at the end. Lovely experience. #wanderingoutloud #cave #cavetour #gunnsplainscaves #tassiestyle #tassie #tassiepics #discovertasmania #exploretasmania #tasmania #tasmaniagram
_lines_in_the_sand_
23 likes • 270 views
📍Gunns Plains Cave - This place was amazing and you wouldn't believe what we seen underground 🤯 . . #gunnsplainscaves #caves #tassie #tasmania #biglap #travellingoz #traveleaustraliawithkids #travelnorthenterritory #travelwesternaustralia #travelsouthaustralia #freecamp #freecamping #offgridlife #offgridcamping #offroadwithyourcaravan #offroadcaravansaustralia #fulltimeonline #fullti...
steve_and_allison
8 likes • 433 views

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:

Gunns Plains Caves Tour with Geoff
vvyymm_
16 likes • 384 views

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

4.8
(561 reviews)

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

Spectacular formations
Humorous and knowledgeable guides
Good value for money

What People Dislike

Limited public transport access

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: Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at the entrance of the Gunns Plains Caves, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. :parking: Reddit

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: Reddit

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: Reddit

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: TikTok

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: Instagram

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: Reddit

The tour involves walking along illuminated pathways. While generally manageable, wear comfortable, non-slip shoes as the surfaces can be damp. :sneakers: Instagram

Yes, there are toilets located at the entrance of the Gunns Plains Caves, providing essential facilities for visitors. :toilet: Reddit

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: Instagram

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: Instagram

📸 📸 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: Instagram

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

Gunns Plains Caves offer a fantastic adventure for families. The illuminated walkways make it easy for children to navigate, and the underground river and limestone formations are sure to spark their curiosity. The glow worm display at the end is a magical experience that kids will talk about long after the visit. Instagram

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. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

For those on a road trip through Tasmania's Northwest, Gunns Plains Caves are an ideal stop. They are conveniently located and can be easily incorporated into a day trip from Burnie or Ulverstone. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Gunns Plains Caves present a unique photographic challenge and opportunity. The low-light conditions require careful camera settings, but the results can be stunning. Focus on capturing the dramatic textures of the limestone formations and the ethereal glow of the glow worms. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology of Gunns Plains Caves

Gunns Plains Caves are a testament to the power of karst topography, formed over millions of years by the dissolution of soluble rocks, primarily limestone, by water. The constant drip and flow of water carrying carbonic acid slowly erodes the rock, creating intricate passages, chambers, and the stunning stalactites (hanging from the ceiling) and stalagmites (rising from the floor) that visitors marvel at today. The presence of an underground river is crucial to this ongoing geological process, shaping the cave's features and contributing to its unique ecosystem. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Experiencing the Glow Worms

One of the most enchanting aspects of the Gunns Plains Caves tour is the opportunity to witness the glow worms at the end of the path. These tiny creatures, scientifically known as Arachnocampa tasmaniensis, emit a bioluminescent light from their tails to attract prey. The effect inside the dark cave is truly magical, creating a starry sky underground. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

The Role of Guides

The guided tours at Gunns Plains Caves are consistently praised for the quality of the guides. Travelers frequently mention how the guides, like Trish and Ben, are not only knowledgeable about the cave's geology and history but also incredibly entertaining. Their humor and passion for the site significantly enhance the visitor experience. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2