Le Thot Espace Cro-Magnon
Explore prehistoric life and ancient animals, including wolves and bison, with interactive exhibits and cave art workshops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Le Thot Espace Cro-Magnon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore prehistoric life and ancient animals, including wolves and bison, with interactive exhibits and cave art workshops.
"Loved visiting this park! It offers a wealth of learning experiences for both adults and children."
Combine with Lascaux
Many visitors find combining a trip to Le Thot with Lascaux offers a complete prehistoric experience. :ticket:
Check Animal Feeding Times
Don't miss the wolf feeding for an exciting and educational animal encounter. :paw_prints:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wolf Watching
Animal enclosures
Witness the fascinating behavior of wolves up close in their naturalistic habitats. A truly captivating experience for all ages.
Bison Encounter
Animal enclosures
See majestic bison, descendants of prehistoric giants, roaming in a spacious environment. Learn about their history and importance.
Cave Art Workshop
Exhibition area
Engage in hands-on activities that recreate the magic of prehistoric cave art. A creative and educational experience for families.
3D Animations & Prehistoric Life
Exhibition area
Immerse yourself in the world of our ancestors through engaging 3D animations and exhibits detailing prehistoric life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with Lascaux for a Prehistoric Adventure
Animal Encounters & Educational Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Lascaux
Many visitors find combining a trip to Le Thot with Lascaux offers a complete prehistoric experience. :ticket:
Check Animal Feeding Times
Don't miss the wolf feeding for an exciting and educational animal encounter. :paw_prints:
Kid-Friendly Learning
Great for families! The park's size and interactive exhibits make it ideal for children. :child:
Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking spots are conveniently located near the entrance. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Lascaux
Many visitors find combining a trip to Le Thot with Lascaux offers a complete prehistoric experience. :ticket:
Check Animal Feeding Times
Don't miss the wolf feeding for an exciting and educational animal encounter. :paw_prints:
Kid-Friendly Learning
Great for families! The park's size and interactive exhibits make it ideal for children. :child:
Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking spots are conveniently located near the entrance. :car:
Picnic Area
Enjoy your meal in the designated picnic area for a relaxed break. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Le Thot to be a charming and educational park, particularly when combined with a visit to Lascaux. It's praised for its well-cared-for animals, especially the wolves and bison, and its engaging prehistoric exhibits that are great for children. Some feel it's a bit small if visited alone, but its educational value and animal encounters make it a worthwhile stop.
"We loved visiting this park! Though it's small, it offers a wealth of learning experiences for both adults and children. In my opinion, it's just the right size to vitis with kids. We couldn't visit Lascaux, so we headed straight to the park, and all four of us (2 adults + 2 kids) enjoyed it immensely. Watching the wolves up close was an incredible experience. We learned so much about all the different animals there and their ancestors!!
The park is clean and all the animals look healthy.
We also got to watch the 3D animations, which the kids loved so much they didn't want to leave.
There's plenty of free parking spots right by the entrance. We went there in the morning and there were very few visitors.
Keep in mind, this park isn't a zoo; it's a whole different experience altogether"
Clara González Ruiz
"Very uninteresting experience. We only went because we got twin tickets at Lascaux (which was awesome btw). A few animals, but apart from wolf and bison nothing you wouldn't have seen just wandering around farms and forest anyway ! Might be interesting as part a school trip but otherwise don't bother."
David McChang
"Very nice park, in combination with lascaux. Take a moment to enjoy the wolfs and other animals.
You have a free area and a paying area which is a bit confusing. Would recommend to put it in the park so people don't have a mixed feeling."
Andy B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Le Thot is located near Montignac, in the Dordogne region of France. It's often visited in conjunction with the Lascaux caves. Driving is the most common way to reach the park, with ample free parking available. Public transport options are limited in this rural area, so check local bus schedules if you are not driving.
Public transport to Le Thot can be challenging. While there might be local bus services connecting to Montignac, it's advisable to check the most up-to-date schedules. Many visitors opt for a car for easier access to the park and surrounding attractions.
Le Thot is conveniently located near the Lascaux caves, making it easy to visit both in one day. They are a short drive apart, so driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most efficient method. Some visitors may find it feasible to walk if they are staying nearby, but it's a moderate distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most current information on opening and closing times, especially outside of peak tourist season.
While online booking might be available, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date ticketing information. Purchasing tickets upon arrival is also an option.
Yes, combined tickets are often available and can be a cost-effective way to experience both attractions. Inquiring about these packages when booking or upon arrival is recommended.
Typically, the animal feeding demonstrations are included in the general admission price. However, it's always wise to confirm this with park staff or on their official website to avoid any surprises.
The park is generally considered family-friendly, and discounts for children are common. Family ticket packages may also be available. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter for specific pricing details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Le Thot focuses on animals that were present during prehistoric times, including wolves and bison. You'll also find other animals that represent the fauna of that era, offering a glimpse into ancient ecosystems. +1
Competent guides are often available to explain the life and habits of the animals, enhancing the educational experience. It's a good idea to inquire about tour schedules upon arrival.
The 3D animations at Le Thot are designed to immerse visitors in the world of prehistoric humans and their environment, often focusing on cave art and the animals they interacted with.
Absolutely! The park's manageable size, interactive exhibits, and animal encounters make it very suitable and engaging for young children.
Photography is generally permitted in most outdoor areas of the park. However, always be mindful of any specific signage regarding photography restrictions, especially in indoor exhibition spaces or near animal enclosures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities might vary, there is a designated picnic area where visitors can enjoy their own food. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks or check if any on-site cafes are available.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the designated picnic areas. This is a great option for families looking to save on costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The animal enclosures, particularly the wolves and bison, offer great opportunities for wildlife photography. The cave art recreations and the natural landscape also provide scenic backdrops. 
Generally, photography is allowed in outdoor areas. However, always check for specific signage regarding restrictions in indoor exhibits or sensitive areas. Flash photography might be discouraged to avoid disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and drinks to enjoy in the picnic area, and consider combining your visit with Lascaux for a full prehistoric day. The 3D animations are also a big draw for younger visitors, making the ancient world feel accessible and exciting.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Focus on the free activities like exploring the animal enclosures and enjoying the outdoor spaces. While there are paid exhibition areas, the core experience of seeing the animals and understanding the prehistoric context is accessible and affordable.
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
Engage with the educational exhibits and, if available, the competent guides to deepen your understanding of Paleolithic life. The park's focus on the relationship between humans and animals during this era offers a fascinating anthropological insight.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Prehistoric Connection: Lascaux and Le Thot
Many travelers find that visiting both sites in succession creates a richer, more immersive understanding of prehistoric times. Le Thot helps to visualize the environment and the subjects of the cave art, transforming abstract images into tangible connections to our distant past. The park's focus on the fauna of the Upper Paleolithic era allows visitors to appreciate the challenges and wonders of life thousands of years ago.
Animal Encounters: Wolves and Bison
The bison, descendants of the powerful creatures depicted in cave art, also command attention. These encounters are not just about viewing animals; they are educational experiences. Competent guides often share insights into the animals' lives, habits, and their ancestral significance, connecting the present-day animals to their prehistoric counterparts. This approach distinguishes Le Thot from a typical zoo, offering a more focused and historically relevant wildlife experience.
Interactive Learning and Family Fun
The park's manageable size is often cited as a major advantage for families with young children. It allows for a thorough exploration without overwhelming little ones. The inclusion of 3D animations further enhances the immersive quality, bringing the ancient world to life in a dynamic way that captivates younger audiences and keeps them engaged throughout the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit