Sorbas Caves in Almería

Adventure Among Crystals

Embark on a unique experience that blends science, nature, and adventure in the heart of Almería. Just a stone’s throw from the famous Tabernas Desert—the driest in Europe—you’ll find the Sorbas Caves. This extraordinary site, with over a thousand cavities carved into gypsum, is considered the finest example of a gypsum karst in Spain and enjoys international recognition. Inside its underground galleries, you’ll encounter stalactites, stalagmites, corals, gypsum rings, and crystal spheres—formations sculpted over millions of years by the action of water on gypsum.

Protected as a Natural Area since 1989, the caves are renowned for their scientific, speleological, and scenic value. This geological wonder offers more than just discovery: it’s an immersion into the Earth’s memory and one of Andalusia’s most authentic natural treasures.

Exploring the Sorbas Caves

Visiting the Karst in Gypsum Natural Area of Sorbas is an adventure for everyone. There are different guided routes available, varying in difficulty and duration. What makes the experience truly special is that this is a wild, untouched cave—completely natural, with no artificial modifications for visitors.

All tours are conducted in small groups, with equipment provided, and always accompanied by expert speleology guides to ensure both safety and enjoyment.

Available Routes:

1. Basic Route:

Perfect for those taking their first steps into caving or looking for a fun family experience. The trail is mostly flat and easy, though at some points you’ll need to crouch or do a little light climbing.

• Difficulty: Low
• Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Suitable for: Young children and adults of all ages with basic agility
• 2025 Prices: Adults €18 | Children (3–12 years) €13

1. Combined Route:

This tour links two very different caves, offering a complete view of the karst. One is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, while the other dazzles with glittering gypsum crystal walls. Expect some sections that require crawling or climbing, making this a more active and exciting experience.

• Difficulty: Medium
• Duration: 3.5 – 4 hours
• Minimum group: 4 people
• 2025 Prices: Adults €37.5 | Children (3–12 years) €25

1. Water Cave Route

Here, water takes center stage. Pools of 8–10°C form along the way, sometimes reaching up to your waist. Alongside gypsum crystals, you’ll spot other minerals like limestone and manganese. The route combines narrow passages, climbing sections, and water zones—an adventure that demands a bit more skill.

• Difficulty: Medium
• Duration: 3.5 – 4 hours
• Minimum group: 4 people
• Season: Summer only
• 2025 Prices: Adults €37.5

1. Technical Route:

For the most adventurous explorers with good physical fitness. This tour takes place in the Cave of Treasure, the most spectacular of the Sorbas gypsum caves, famous for its enormous crystals. Expect technical passages, climbing, and rappelling sections with harness and rope—always under the supervision of expert guides.

• Difficulty: High
• Duration: 4 – 5 hours
• Minimum group: 4 people
• 2025 Prices: Adults €65

Where Does the Activity Take Place?

The Sorbas Caves are located in the Karst in Gypsum Natural Area, a protected site since 1989, recognized for its scientific, speleological, and scenic value. This geological wonder goes beyond simple discovery: it’s an immersion into the Earth’s history and one of Andalusia’s most authentic natural treasures. The Sorbas Caves adventure takes place in Almería, right in the heart of the Karst in Gypsum Natural Site—one of Europe’s most unique underground landscapes. In this protected area you’ll find:

• Over 1,000 gypsum-carved cavities, shaped by millions of years of erosion.

• Underground galleries and passages decorated with stalactites and stalagmites.

• Canyons, sinkholes, and geodes that make the landscape a true open-air natural museum.

• A dry, arid exterior that contrasts with the cool freshness inside the caves.

How to Book Your Sorbas Caves Adventure

Booking your adventure in the Sorbas Caves is simple: just pick your date, time, and the route that best matches your level of adventure, from the Basic Route to the Technical Route. At Raízes, we take care of everything for you, managing your booking directly to guarantee the best service at no extra cost. We’ll also help you plan your schedule, and if needed, we can arrange round-trip transportation from your accommodation

Still have questions? Keep reading below

Further down you’ll find frequently asked questions and more details. And if you’re still unsure—just reach out! We’ll happily give you all the info you need on prices, available dates, and activity conditions. At Raízes, we’d love to help you choose the best option for you and your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I bring for the tour?

Just wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and sturdy closed-toe shoes. All other gear—helmet, headlamp, and harness if required—will be provided by the guides. If you don’t have the right footwear or socks, you can purchase them on-site. Personal belongings can be left in your car or safely stored by the guides at the office.

What if I don’t have suitable shoes?

No worries! You can rent boots for just €1 and buy socks for €0.80.

Do I need previous caving experience?

Not at all. The basic routes require no prior experience. The more technical routes do call for good physical fitness and some skill, but you’ll always be accompanied by expert guides to ensure safety at all times.

Is the activity suitable for children?

Yes. The Basic Route is designed to be family-friendly and can be enjoyed even by younger children, as long as they are agile enough to walk, climb, or crouch at some points. The more advanced routes are recommended only for adults or older youths with experience and good fitness.

What’s included in the price?

Your ticket covers entry to the cave, all required equipment, professional guides, and full safety coverage throughout the activity.

Can the activity be done year-round?

Yes. The Sorbas Caves are open all year, except for the Water Cave route, which is only available in summer. Thanks to the caves’ stable interior temperature, the experience is equally enjoyable in any season.

How do I get to the Sorbas Caves?

You’ll need a vehicle. Driving times are approximately: 50–60 minutes from Almería city, 60–75 minutes from Roquetas de Mar, 30–40 minutes from Mojácar. Free parking is available, and from there it’s a short walk to the office where you’ll be welcomed, receive your equipment, and get a full briefing. If you don’t have a car, Raízes Turismo Personal can provide round-trip transport from your accommodation in the province.

Is there food available on-site?

Yes. There’s a restaurant where you can enjoy food and drinks before or after your tour.

Can I take photos inside the caves?

Company policy does not allow visitors to take their own photos during the tour. However, the guides will take professional photos, which you can purchase afterwards: from €4 per photo (digital format) and €7 per photo (print + digital format). Bundle deals are also available: 5 digital photos for €8 and 5 photos in print + digital format for €20.