3 Caves tour – Saeva dupka , Eyes of God cave & Devetashka Cave

If you’re visiting Sofia and craving a break from city streets, a trip to Bulgaria’s famous caves offers a fascinating way to connect with nature and history. This 3 Caves tour takes you through some of the most stunning underground landscapes the country has to offer, including Saeva Dupka, the Eyes of God (Prohodna), and Devetashka caves. We’ve looked into what makes this experience appealing—and what travelers should consider—so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

Two things we really like about this tour: first, it’s a small-group experience capped at 15 people, which usually means more personalized attention and less time waiting around. Second, the guides often impress with their knowledge, making the visit not just beautiful but also educational. The only potential caveat (pun intended) is the price point—some reviews point out it might feel a bit steep for solo travelers or those watching their budget.

This tour seems ideal for those who appreciate natural wonders, enjoy a bit of walking and exploration, and want a well-organized day with knowledgeable guides. If you’re into caves, scenic drives, and learning about Bulgaria’s underground secrets, this one’s likely to satisfy.

Key Points

• Small-group experience for more personalized service
• Visiting three of Bulgaria’s most famous caves in one day
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sofia for convenience
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience
• Duration of around 10 hours makes for a full day’s adventure
• Moderate physical activity required; not suited for those with walking disabilities

What You Can Expect from This Cave Adventure

Travelers who sign up for this tour should brace for a full day packed with exploration, scenic drives, and learning. With a group limited to 15, you’ll likely find a cozy atmosphere where questions are encouraged and guides are eager to share their insights. The tour provides transportation from Sofia, meaning you won’t need to worry about logistics—just show up ready to explore.

The Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: Saeva Dupka Cave

Saeva Dupka is a highlight for many. Its 400 meters of corridors and five galleries provide a real sense of discovery. Walking through these passages, you’ll experience the natural formations up close, with the chance to see some fascinating rock features. The tour spends about 40 minutes here, giving enough time for photos, soaking in the atmosphere, and listening to your guide’s stories about its past uses.

From reviews, it’s clear that visitors find Saeva Dupka’s corridors both intriguing and photogenic. One traveler mentioned that the caves were “fascinating” and enjoyed the “great combination” of stops. Since the entrance fee is included, what you pay covers both the access and the expert commentary.

Second Stop: Eyes of God (Prohodna Cave)

This is probably the most famous of the three. Visitors come for the spectacular twin holes in the ceiling, nicknamed the Eyes of God. Standing inside, you’ll feel a sense of wonder at how such a natural feature can be so perfectly symmetrical. The 30-minute stop here offers a chance to marvel at the views and learn about the cave’s history and significance.

Many reviewers describe the Eyes of God as “absolutely stunning,” with some saying that seeing the holes was “spectacular” and that the view from inside is “magnificent.” Guides often share interesting tidbits about how the cave has been used over the centuries, adding depth to the visual wow factor.

Final Stop: Devetashka Cave

The last leg takes you to Devetashka, a vast and picturesque karst cave that stretches over 2,442 meters. Its high ceilings and impressive scale leave visitors speechless. The 30-minute visit allows travelers to walk through and take in the size of this natural wonder, which has also served as a filming location, adding a layer of cultural intrigue.

Guests frequently comment on how “beautiful” and “left us speechless” the Devetashka Cave is, emphasizing its grandeur. The fact that it’s so extensive makes it a fitting finale for the tour, offering a sense of awe and perspective.

The Practical Side: What The Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The tour, priced at around $104.50 per person, offers good value considering what’s included. Your ticket covers local taxes, a professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off, meaning you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics. The guided aspect is especially valuable—guides are often praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share Bulgaria’s stories in an engaging way.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward. The tour begins early at 8:00 am, and the total time is about 10 hours, so it’s a long but rewarding day.

By limiting the group to 15, the tour ensures that everyone can enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or crowded. That said, some reviews mention the drive between caves can feel a little lengthy—around 30 minutes to an hour each way—which is worth considering if you prefer a more compact itinerary.

Transportation and Accessibility

The bus ride is comfortable and convenient, and the tour is marked as suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Be aware that uneven surfaces inside caves mean this isn’t ideal for someone with walking disabilities, and sandals or flip-flops aren’t permitted—closed shoes are a must.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a generally glowing picture. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning that “Daniel is one of the best guides we’ve had,” and others praising guides like Laura, Nadia, and Katarina for their friendliness and insights. The small group size seems to make a difference, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention.

The scenery gets high praise, with comments about the caves being “spectacular,” “beautiful,” and “fascinating.” Several reviewers share that this tour was the highlight of their trip to Sofia, emphasizing the diversity and uniqueness of each cave.

Value for money is a mixed bag. While most agree that the experience is worthwhile, some consider the price a little high, especially for solo travelers who might feel they’re paying a premium. One reviewer noted that the last cave could be skipped to reduce the time and cost, but many still felt the tour was worth it for the overall experience.

Highlights from Reviews

• “Well informed – patient and accommodating.”
• “Caves are absolutely stunning, each with its own vibe.”
• “Guide made the day fun and educational.”
• “The drive between caves is scenic and adds to the adventure.”
• “The size of the Devetashka Cave is breathtaking.”

On the flip side, a few reviews point out the price might seem steep for solo travelers or if the focus is solely on the caves without extra activities.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy natural landscapes and underground exploration, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Bulgaria’s subterranean beauty. It’s especially suitable for travellers who appreciate guided experiences, want to learn about local culture and geology, and don’t mind a full day of activity.

The tour may not be ideal if you’re looking for a quick visit or have mobility issues, given the uneven surfaces and walking involved. Also, if budget is a primary concern, you might find the cost a bit high, particularly if traveling solo.

Overall, for those wanting a well-organized, informative, and visually stunning experience outside Sofia, this cave trip is a solid choice—especially with friendly guides and small-group intimacy.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 10 hours, including transportation and stops at three caves.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Sofia are part of the package, making the day more convenient.

Are the caves suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and since uneven surfaces are involved, it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level. Not ideal for people with walking disabilities.

What’s the walking like inside the caves?
Expect some uneven surfaces, so sturdy shoes are necessary. Sandals or flip-flops are not permitted.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks aren’t included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 4 weeks in advance; the tour is popular and tends to fill up early.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Caves tour offers a compelling glimpse into Bulgaria’s underground marvels, combining scenic drives, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable natural formations. It’s a good pick for those who love exploring nature’s hidden treasures, enjoy small-group settings, and want a hassle-free way to see multiple caves in one day.

While it’s priced higher than some might hope, many visitors feel the experience justifies the cost, especially with the guides’ stories and the stunning scenery. It’s particularly well-suited for curious travelers eager to learn and see the diverse underground landscapes Bulgaria has to offer.

If you’re planning your trip to Sofia and have a day to spare, this adventure could be one of the highlights—just come prepared for a full day of exploration and a bit of walking.

Ready for your underground adventure? This tour promises a memorable peek beneath Bulgaria’s surface, with plenty of natural beauty and stories to share long after you return home.