The "From Sarlat-la-Canéda: Lascaux IV and Cave Art Full-Day Tour" promises to transport visitors back in time, immersing them in the rich prehistoric heritage of the Dordogne region. This nine-hour journey, led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, offers a rare opportunity to explore the stunning Lascaux IV replica and the UNESCO-listed Rouffignac Cave, providing a captivating glimpse into the artistic and cultural legacy of our ancestors. With a small-group setting and personalized attention, this tour promises to leave participants with a deeper understanding of the prehistoric world and the chance to witness the breathtaking landscapes that inspired such timeless masterpieces.

Key Points

  • Tour highlights include visits to Lascaux IV, the National Prehistory Museum, and Rouffignac Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Duration of the tour is 9 hours, priced from $189.92 per person, with a small-group size limited to 8 participants.
  • Itinerary covers significant prehistoric sites like Les Eyzies de Tayac and provides insights into the artistic endeavors of our ancestors.
  • Tour includes a live English-speaking guide, transportation, and free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Accessibility is limited, as the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and has age restrictions for children.

Tour Overview

From Sarlat-la-Canéda: Lascaux IV and Cave Art Full-Day Tour - Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Sarlat-la-Canéda takes visitors to the renowned Lascaux IV and other cave art sites in the Dordogne region.

Priced from $189.92 per person, the 9-hour tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with a live English-speaking guide.

Highlights include exploring the National Prehistory Museum, touring the perfect reproduction of the original Lascaux cave art, and visiting Rouffignac Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option.

Appropriate attire and a valid ID are recommended, while the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under 4.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Highlights

From Sarlat-la-Canéda: Lascaux IV and Cave Art Full-Day Tour - Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to Les Eyzies de Tayac, the site where the first Cro-Magnon skeletons were discovered in 1868.

Next, guests explore the National Prehistory Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of prehistoric artifacts.

The highlight is a tour of Lascaux IV, a state-of-the-art replica of the original cave art that opened in 2016.

The tour concludes at Rouffignac Cave, known for its original etchings and drawings.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was also a shelter for Resistance fighters during WWII and has been a popular tourist attraction since the 19th century.

Cave Art and History

From Sarlat-la-Canéda: Lascaux IV and Cave Art Full-Day Tour - Cave Art and History

The Dordogne region is recognized as the world capital of prehistory, where early modern humans known as Cro-Magnon left significant cave artwork.

Lascaux IV showcases the stunning polychromatic paintings created using natural pigments, replicating the original atmosphere of the Lascaux caves.

Rouffignac Cave, known for its original etchings and drawings, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This cave historically served as a shelter for Resistance fighters during World War II and has been a popular tourist attraction since the 19th century.

The Dordogne’s cave art and history provide a unique window into the lives and artistic endeavors of our prehistoric ancestors.

Pricing and Duration

According to the tour overview, the Lascaux IV and Cave Art Tour is priced from $189.92 per person. The tour lasts a full day, spanning 9 hours.

It’s a small-group experience, limited to just 8 participants, led by a live English-speaking guide. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the convenient reserve now & pay later option.

  • The tour covers the Dordogne region, recognized as the world capital of prehistory.

  • Visitors will explore the National Prehistory Museum and the Lascaux IV cave, a perfect replica of the original cave art.

  • The tour also includes a visit to the Rouffignac Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with original prehistoric etchings and drawings.

  • Recommendations include bringing comfortable shoes, warm jackets, and a passport or ID.

Meeting Point and Recommendations

The meeting point for the tour is the Place Pasteur bus stop in Sarlat-la-Canéda.

Guests are advised to bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack a warm jacket, as the temperature inside the caves is around 14°C.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children under 4 years old aren’t allowed.

If bringing children, their age must be specified to ensure proper car seat provision.

The tour is primarily conducted in French, but English explanations are provided before and after the cave visits.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Accessibility and Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Plus, children under 4 years old aren’t allowed on the tour. However, you can specify your child’s age so the tour operator can provide an appropriate car seat.

The tours are mainly conducted in French, but English explanations are provided before and after the cave visits.

Here are some key restrictions to be aware of:

  • Not suitable for wheelchair users
  • Children under 4 not allowed (specify child age for car seat provision)
  • Tours mainly in French with English explanations before and after cave visits

Customer Reviews

Based on the tour’s 106 reviews, customers are overwhelmingly positive about their experiences. The tour earns an impressive 4.9/5 rating, with highlights including knowledgeable and adaptable guides, enjoyable and informative experiences, and recommendations for additional sights. Customers emphasize the value of a guided tour for deeper insights into prehistory.

Customer Review Highlights
Knowledgeable guides
Enjoyable experiences
Informative commentary
Adaptable to needs
Recommendations for other sights

The positive feedback suggests this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the Dordogne region’s rich prehistoric heritage.

Tour Inclusions

This tour’s inclusions cover the essentials for a full-day exploration of the Dordogne region’s rich prehistoric heritage.

The price of $189.92 per person includes:

  • A live English-speaking guide to provide expert insights throughout the journey
  • Admission to Lascaux IV, a stunning replica of the original Lascaux cave paintings
  • Visits to the National Prehistory Museum and the Rouffignac Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Transportation in a small group of no more than 8 participants, allowing for a personalized experience

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this comprehensive tour makes it easy to explore the captivating world of Cro-Magnon cave art.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Caves?

Photography and videography are generally not allowed inside the caves to preserve the delicate cave art. However, visitors can take pictures and videos at the Lascaux IV interpretive center, which showcases high-quality replicas of the original cave paintings.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Sites?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the tour sites. The National Prehistory Museum and Lascaux IV visitor centers offer a range of items such as books, postcards, and replicas related to the cave art and prehistory of the region.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the tour duration is fixed at 9 hours, some tour companies may offer options to extend the experience for an additional fee. Visitors should inquire about any customizable tour packages or extensions when booking their Lascaux IV and cave art tour.

What Is the Cancellation/Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for their travel plans.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch and Snacks?

The tour does not include lunch or snacks, so participants should bring their own. However, there are opportunities to purchase food during the day at various stops along the itinerary.

Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich prehistoric heritage of the Dordogne region. Visitors can explore the captivating world of cave art and history while marveling at the stunning natural landscapes. With a small-group setting, personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, and convenient transportation, this full-day experience is an excellent choice for those seeking a deep dive into the Lascaux IV replica and Rouffignac Cave.