Elephant Cave (Drapano) - Image 1
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Elephant Cave Drapano

4.4
·194 reviews·Vamos, Greece

Dive into a sea cave with prehistoric elephant fossils and surreal rock formations, emerging into a magical blue ocean entrance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Calm sea days

Easier access and visibility

CrowdMedium
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Elephant Cave (Drapano) - Image 1

Elephant Cave Drapano

Best Time

Calm sea days

Easier access and visibility

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dive into a sea cave with prehistoric elephant fossils and surreal rock formations, emerging into a magical blue ocean entrance.

4.4
(194 reviews)

"An absolute stunning dive experience. The cave dive is easy, extra ordinary and 'breathtaking'."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Prehistoric Elephant Fossils

Prehistoric Elephant Fossils

Inside the cave

Witness ancient elephant bones, a truly mind-blowing glimpse into prehistoric life.

The Blue Ocean Entrance

The Blue Ocean Entrance

Cave exit

Emerge from the darkness into a magical, giant blue ocean entrance, a breathtaking transition.

Stalactite Formations

Stalactite Formations

Inside the cave

Marvel at the stunning, ancient stalagmites and rock formations sculpted over millennia.

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Planning Your Visit

Dive Certification is Key

This isn't your average snorkeling spot. To truly experience Elephant Cave Drapano and see the prehistoric elephant fossils, you'll need to be a certified scuba diver. Many visitors recommend booking through a local dive shop like Omega Divers for a guided experience.

Embrace the Darkness

The cave is pitch black, offering a unique, surreal atmosphere. While this means no natural light for photos, it enhances the mystery. Remember to bring an underwater camera if you want to capture the incredible rock formations and fossils.

Best Times

When
Calm sea days
Why
Easier access and visibility
Crowd
Medium
When
Anytime for certified divers
Why
Cave offers a unique experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Once in a life time experience 🥹 #seaturtles #vacation #zanzibar #caves #experience #dream #bucketlist #amazing #holiday #travel
@demiandpj
1.9M likes • 14.2M views

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:

"They dared to enter a cave and found something shocking underwater! #SurprisingMoments #UnbelievableCatch #shockfactor #stillwater #ViralVideo
@lf_legend55
340.9K likes • 5.8M views
Add this to your Zanzibar itinerary! 🐢✨ Swimming with turtles at Salaam Cave — truly one of the most magical things I’ve ever done. the turtles swim right up to you (they do nibble a little, but don’t worry, it’s not painful!) 🌊 Such a beautiful experience, and definitely a must-do if you’re heading to Zanzibar. Would you try this? Tag your travel buddy! 🌴✈️ #ZanzibarItinerary #MaalumCave #SwimWi...
@africanbeautyxoxo
62.3K likes • 751.6K views

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:

One of the most beautiful experiences in Italy 🤩🇮🇹 #italy #capri #capri🇮🇹 #italian #italy #beautiful #cave #bluecave #blue #italia #boat #positano #amalfi #explore #travel #travellife #traveltok #adrenaline #usa #usa_tiktok
@tripioapp
59.7K likes • 1.1M views

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

4.4
(194 reviews)

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

Ancient elephant fossils
Surreal cave dive
Magical ocean exit

What People Dislike

Limited fish inside cave

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🤿 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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Certified Scuba Divers

Elephant Cave Drapano is a dream destination for certified scuba divers. The opportunity to explore a sea cave containing prehistoric elephant fossils and unique geological formations is unparalleled. Many reviews highlight it as a 'must' for any diver visiting the island, and it's even recommended as a fantastic first cave dive experience for those with the appropriate certification. Booking with a reputable dive operator like Omega Divers is strongly advised to ensure a safe and memorable excursion. Reddit+1

Adventure Seekers

For those craving a unique adventure, Elephant Cave Drapano delivers. The dive into a pitch-black cave, the discovery of ancient fossils, and the dramatic exit into the open ocean offer a thrilling and unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to explore a hidden world and connect with natural history in a profound way. Be prepared for a dive that is as intellectually stimulating as it is visually spectacular. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Paleontological Significance

Elephant Cave Drapano holds immense paleontological value, famously known for the excavation of prehistoric elephant bones dating back approximately 60,000 years. These fossils offer a rare glimpse into the island's ancient past and the megafauna that once roamed the area. The discovery of these remains within the cave highlights its role as a natural repository of history. Divers often describe the experience of seeing these ancient fossils as 'mind-blowing,' connecting them directly to a time long before human civilization as we know it. Reddit

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. Reddit

Scuba Diving Experience

The dive at Elephant Cave Drapano is consistently described as 'exceptional,' 'surreal,' and 'breathtaking.' It's particularly noted as an excellent introduction to cave diving for those who are already certified. The dive typically involves descending to the cave's entrance, navigating through the pitch-black interior to witness the ancient elephant fossils and stunning rock formations, and then ascending through a 'blue tunnel' that opens into the vast expanse of the deep blue sea. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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