What to Wear Inside the Cueva de Nerja

Footwear: closed shoes with grip

This is the most important rule. No sandals, no flip-flops, no high heels. The stairs are steep and the walkway is wet from water seeping through the cave. You need a closed shoe with a grip sole — hiking shoes, trainers, walking boots. If your shoes have smooth soles, you will slip. The cave staff will turn you away if your footwear is unsafe.

Temperature: 19 degrees, always

The cave stays at 19 °C year-round. In July or August, when it is 35 °C outside, 19 °C inside feels refreshing. In January, when it is 12 °C outside, 19 °C inside feels warm. Bring a light layer — a thin sweater, a cardigan, or a windbreaker — to throw on over your summer clothes. I go in shorts and a t-shirt, with a thin layer in my backpack. Problem solved.

What you do not need

You do not need caving gear, climbing equipment, or helmets. The route is a paved and railed walkway with electric lights installed. You do not crawl through tight spaces or climb vertical rock. You do not need waterproof trousers or heavy rain gear. The stairs can be wet underfoot, but you are not wading through water.

See what you see inside, how long the visit takes, and best time to visit.

Frequently asked questions