Exploring the Caves of Genova: An Honest Look at This Palma Gem
If you’re considering a visit to the Caves of Genova near Palma de Mallorca, you’re in for a treat—especially if you enjoy natural scenery and a bit of underground adventure. This tour, priced at around $14 per person, offers a quick yet engaging peek into some of the island’s hidden geological wonders. It’s a straightforward experience, but one that packs enough charm to make it worthwhile.
What we really like about this tour is its accessibility—you can visit at your own pace, thanks to the flexible entry and self-guided format. Plus, the audio guide available in multiple languages makes it easier to understand the caves’ history and features without needing a guide hovering over your shoulder. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided exploration or something that lasts longer, this might feel a bit limited.
This experience suits travelers who are after a short, relaxed outing—perhaps as part of a broader day of sightseeing or a chill afternoon escape from the busy streets of Palma. It’s also perfect for those who value learning about geology and natural formations without the fuss of large tour groups or rigid schedules.
Key Points:
- Self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for most travelers
- Audio guide in several languages enhances understanding of the caves’ features
- Accessible by car or bus—easy to reach from Palma
- Beautiful natural formations like domes, columns, pools, and tunnels
- Short duration (about 35 minutes) perfect for a quick adventure
What Are the Caves of Genova?

The Caves of Genova hold a fascinating history—they were only discovered in 1906, making them a relatively recent addition to Mallorca’s natural sights. Originally, these caves served as prehistoric refuges, giving them a quiet, almost secretive vibe. Over the years, water has carved out the limestone, creating the formations you’ll see today.
Located just ten minutes from Palma, these caves are the perfect little escapade when you want something different from the usual beach or city stroll. We loved the way the natural water has shaped the interior into vast domes, majestic columns, pools, and winding tunnels. The scale is manageable—nothing overwhelming, but enough to awe you with the natural artistry.
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Getting There and Access

Getting to the Caves of Genova couldn’t be simpler. You can drive and park right at the site, or catch a bus from Palma that drops you nearby. The meeting point is straightforward—simply head to the main restaurant reception, where your admission and audio guide are organized.
Because the tour is entirely self-guided, you won’t be rushed or stuck with a large group. Instead, you explore at your own speed, pausing to admire the formations or listen to the story behind each feature. The flexibility of visiting anytime during your reserved day is a real plus, especially if you prefer avoiding crowds or have a tight schedule.
What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $14, your ticket includes admission, an audio guide that speaks multiple languages—including German, Spanish, French, Catalan, and English—and a refreshing glass of sangria afterward. You’ll also get access to a downloadable educational video, which is a nice bonus for those interested in learning more.
However, transportation and meals aren’t part of the package. It’s a standalone experience meant for those who want a quick underground adventure. The tour itself lasts about 35 minutes, which many reviews agree is just enough to see everything without feeling rushed.
What the Tour Feels Like

Once you descend the 36 meters into the caves, you’re greeted by a cool, damp atmosphere—an immediate contrast to the Mallorcan heat outside. We found the experience surprisingly comfortable, especially since the caves remain a steady, refreshing temperature. As one reviewer noted, “even though it was above 40 degrees outside, inside it’s very comfortable and fresh.”
The natural formations are quite stunning—large ceilings, impressive columns, and water pools add a mystical touch. You can take your time exploring the galleries and corridors, which are naturally linked and formed over centuries. The audio guide helps bring these features to life, explaining their geological significance and history.
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Many visitors have praised the caves for their quiet, undisturbed atmosphere. One reviewer called it “a bijou gem,” highlighting how different it is from the other more commercial caves on the island. Experienced travelers also appreciated the chance to enjoy these formations without the crowds that tend to flock to larger attractions.
The comments from those who walked from nearby hotels or took a short taxi ride mention how accessible and convenient it is—perfect for a half-day outing. A visitor from the UK noted, “I walked to the caves from my hotel and loved the whole experience. The family running the caves is welcoming, and the whole visit feels like a hidden treasure.”
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Duration and How It Fits Into Your Day
The tour clocks in at roughly 35 minutes, making it ideal if you’re looking for a short activity that won’t eat into your day. You’ll spend some time descending, exploring the galleries, and listening to the audio guide. The whole experience is relaxed, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty without feeling hurried.
If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized, manageable excursions, this is a good fit. Many reviews remark that it’s “not too big but really nice to see,” and one even said, “You might find it’s all you need to be impressed.”
Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the ticket costs just $14 and includes audio guides, a drink, and educational content, this experience offers solid value. It’s a budget-friendly way to see some natural artistry and learn a little about the caves’ history. For most travelers, the price feels justified given the quality and intimacy of the visit.
Some reviews noted that the caves are smaller and can be toured within around 20 minutes, but they still felt it was worth the ticket fee, especially given the lack of large crowds and commercial trappings found elsewhere.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a short, scenic, and educational experience. If you love geology, natural formations, or simply want a break from the busier tourist spots, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good option for those traveling with family or friends who want an easy, manageable underground adventure.
It’s probably less suitable if you have mobility issues, as descending 36 meters might be challenging for some. Also, if you prefer guided tours with a guide on-site to answer questions, this self-guided option might feel a bit limiting.
Final Thoughts

The Caves of Genova offer a charming peek into Mallorca’s natural underground world. With a modest price, easy access, and a flexible, self-guided format, it’s a solid choice if you’re after a quick adventure that’s both relaxing and educational. The natural formations are beautiful, and the quiet atmosphere makes it a peaceful escape from the hustle of Palma.
This experience shines brightest for those who enjoy natural landscapes, want a break from the crowds, or are simply curious about how water and time shape limestone caves. It’s a small-scale, unpretentious outing that many visitors find surprisingly memorable.
If you’re in Palma and looking for a manageable, affordable underground exploration, the Caves of Genova are worth considering. Just remember that the tour is brief, so if you’re craving a more extensive caving experience or guided commentary, you might want to look elsewhere.
Palma: Caves of Genova Ticket & Digital Audio Guide
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the caves are accessible for most ages, it’s not explicitly family-focused, and the descent might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility impairments.
How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 35 minutes, making it a perfect quick activity or a nice addition between other sightseeing plans.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you should reserve your ticket online, as tickets are valid for the entire day during your reserved date, giving you flexibility on timing.
Can I visit the caves anytime during my booked day?
Absolutely, your ticket is valid for entry at any time during your designated day, so you can visit at your convenience.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to organize your own way there—by car, taxi, or bus.
Is there an on-site guide?
No, this is a self-guided experience with an audio guide to help you learn about the caves’ features.
What should I bring?
Just wear comfortable shoes—there’s no need for special equipment, and exploring is straightforward once you’re inside.
The Caves of Genova offer a straightforward, affordable, and interesting underground adventure in Mallorca—perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and want a relaxed, self-paced experience.
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