Elephant Cave Drapano
Dive into a sea cave with prehistoric elephant fossils and surreal rock formations, emerging into a magical blue ocean entrance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Easier access and visibility
Elephant Cave Drapano
Best Time
Easier access and visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into a sea cave with prehistoric elephant fossils and surreal rock formations, emerging into a magical blue ocean entrance.
"An absolute stunning dive experience. The cave dive is easy, extra ordinary and 'breathtaking'."
Scuba Dive is a Must
Certified divers rave about this unique cave dive experience. Book with a local operator! :scuba_mask:
Bring an Underwater Camera
Capture the surreal darkness and ancient fossils. Your memories will thank you! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prehistoric Elephant Fossils
Inside the cave
Witness ancient elephant bones, a truly mind-blowing glimpse into prehistoric life.
The Blue Ocean Entrance
Cave exit
Emerge from the darkness into a magical, giant blue ocean entrance, a breathtaking transition.
Stalactite Formations
Inside the cave
Marvel at the stunning, ancient stalagmites and rock formations sculpted over millennia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive Certification is Key
Embrace the Darkness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Scuba Dive is a Must
Certified divers rave about this unique cave dive experience. Book with a local operator! :scuba_mask:
Bring an Underwater Camera
Capture the surreal darkness and ancient fossils. Your memories will thank you! :camerawithflash:
Enjoy the Cool Cave
Escape the warm water in the refreshingly cooler cave environment. :snowflake:
First Cave Dive?
Considered a great first step into cave diving for newer divers. :diving_mask:
Tips
from all over the internet
Scuba Dive is a Must
Certified divers rave about this unique cave dive experience. Book with a local operator! :scuba_mask:
Bring an Underwater Camera
Capture the surreal darkness and ancient fossils. Your memories will thank you! :camerawithflash:
Enjoy the Cool Cave
Escape the warm water in the refreshingly cooler cave environment. :snowflake:
First Cave Dive?
Considered a great first step into cave diving for newer divers. :diving_mask:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the surreal and breathtaking experience of diving in Elephant Cave Drapano, particularly the chance to see ancient elephant fossils and stunning rock formations. The unique journey from the dark cave to the bright blue ocean exit is a highlight, making it a must-do for certified divers. While not teeming with fish, the cave's historical and geological significance provides an unforgettable adventure.
"What an experience. I wish I took my underwater camera. But just our own memories can do itself justice. We had to swim down to the tunnel and then we saw the elephant fossils from 60k years ago. The stalagmites were amazing. And to think how old it was to make the cave what it is now is just mindblowjng. Its pitch black with no light which is cool. There wasnt a lot of fish down there but the cave made up for it. When we were coming out of the cave we were greeted with a big blue giant ocean entrance that was so magical. The colors in the tunnel were cool too! BTW. You have to scuba dive in. We did it through omega scuba."
Mariposa
"Went there on a diving expedition. Exceptionally great, even for newer divers. Great first step into cave diving"
K. W.
"surreal, beautiful landscape and place, I was excited, there were rabbits jumping from one rock to another, hawks and lots of natara, wonderful, I advise"
Barbara Perillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elephant Cave Drapano is primarily accessed by boat. Most visitors arrange their trip through local dive centers, such as Omega Divers, who will provide transportation to the cave site. The journey itself is part of the adventure, often involving a scenic boat ride across the water.
Unfortunately, Elephant Cave Drapano is not easily accessible for non-divers. The primary way to experience the cave's wonders, including the prehistoric elephant fossils, is through scuba diving. Snorkeling is generally not feasible due to the depth and the nature of the cave entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a traditional 'ticket' for entry in the way you'd find at a land-based attraction. Access is typically included as part of a scuba diving package booked with a dive operator. These packages cover boat transport, guide services, and the dive itself.
As a natural sea cave accessed by boat, there are no set opening hours. Dive operators schedule trips based on sea conditions and their own operational hours. It's best to coordinate with your chosen dive center for available times.
The cost is primarily associated with the scuba diving excursion. Prices can vary depending on the dive operator, but expect to pay for a guided dive that includes boat transport and equipment rental if needed.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to dive. Popular dive shops can fill up, and securing your spot ensures you don't miss out on this unique experience.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
Divers describe the experience as surreal and breathtaking. You'll swim down to a tunnel entrance, explore the pitch-black cave with its ancient elephant fossils and stalactites, and then exit through a magical blue tunnel into the open ocean. It's considered an extraordinary cave dive, even for newer divers.
While some divers noted not a lot of fish within the cave itself, the surrounding waters can offer marine life. The main draw, however, is the geological and paleontological significance of the cave, rather than abundant fish populations.
Many reviews suggest it's a great first step into cave diving for newer divers, provided they are certified. The dive is described as easy and extraordinary. Always dive within your limits and with a certified guide.
You'll be in scuba gear. For the boat ride, wear comfortable clothing suitable for the sea. Water temperatures are around 27°C, so a wetsuit might be optional depending on your comfort level, but it's always good to check with your dive operator.
You can, but it requires an underwater camera. The cave is pitch black, so natural light photography is impossible. Bringing an underwater camera is highly recommended to capture the unique formations and fossils.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Certified Scuba Divers
Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Paleontological Significance
Beyond the fossils, the cave itself is a geological marvel. The formation of the cave and its impressive stalactites and stalagmites is a testament to the slow, powerful processes of nature over millennia. The contrast between the dark, ancient interior and the bright, vibrant blue of the ocean entrance creates a dramatic and unforgettable environment for divers. It's this unique combination of natural history and geological wonder that makes Elephant Cave Drapano a must-visit for certified divers.
Scuba Diving Experience
Divers appreciate the unique atmosphere created by the complete darkness within the cave, which enhances the sense of discovery and wonder. The water temperature inside the cave is often cooler than the surrounding sea, providing a refreshing contrast. While some visitors mention fewer fish inside the cave itself, the overall experience of exploring this ancient, submerged world is the primary draw. The ease of access on calm sea days further enhances the enjoyment of this extraordinary dive.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit