Embark on an underground expedition that promises an unforgettable adventure. The "Adventure in the Dark – Owls Cave & Santa Carmen Expedition" unveils the captivating wonders of Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen. Enjoy a world of stunning geological formations, encounter unique wildlife, and explore the enchanting Grotto of the Sacred Mantle. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – prepare for a scenic boat ride, healing hot springs, and a refreshing swim. Are you ready to uncover the hidden gems that lie beneath the surface?

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Key Points

Explore the underground wonders of Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen, featuring stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and diverse wildlife.
Set out on a 1-day tour with pickup from Tingo María, including a boat ride on the Monzón River and a visit to the Aguas Sulfurosas spring.
Enjoy a mystical atmosphere as you discover the crystal-clear waters and underground waterfalls of the Grotto of the Sacred Mantle.
This adventure is suitable for enthusiasts seeking an extreme experience, with preparation for challenging terrain recommended.
The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and pick-up/drop-off services, providing a flexible and all-inclusive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The tour offers an underground adventure in Peru’s Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen.

Discover an underground adventure in Peru’s Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen.

Priced from Kč 1,132 per person, it provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The 1-day tour includes pickup from a designated meeting point in Tingo María.

Flexibility in travel plans is maintained, allowing visitors to adjust their schedules as needed.

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Highlights and Features

Stunning stalactites and stalagmites, habitats of bats, and unique creatures await visitors on this underground adventure.

Marvel at the intricate rock formations and enjoy the mystical atmosphere of the caves.

The Grotto of the Sacred Mantle, located 25 km from Tingo María, features crystal-clear waters, underground waterfalls, and whimsical formations.

This extreme adventure is suitable for the most avid enthusiasts, offering a chance to enjoy the hidden wonders of Peru’s Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen.

Itinerary Details

Departing from Tingo María at 8:30 AM, the tour first visits Cueva de las Lechuzas, a cave home to various bird species and bats.

Exploring the Cueva de las Lechuzas, a cave home to diverse bird and bat species, during the morning tour from Tingo María.

If conditions permit, participants enjoy a boat ride on the Monzón River, followed by a visit to the Aguas Sulfurosas spring known for its medicinal sulfur properties.

The tour then stops at Mirador Jacintillo for views of Tingo María and the confluence of the Huallaga and Monzón rivers.

In the afternoon, the group hikes to Santa Carmen Waterfalls, where they can swim in natural pools.

The day ends with a visit to Mirador de la Cruz for panoramic views before returning to Tingo María.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour are transportation, entrance fees, permanent assistance, food, drinks, and pick-up/drop-off services. Other services not specified are excluded.

The tour includes:

Pickup and drop-off from a designated meeting point in Tingo María.
Entrance fees to Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen.
Boat ride on the Monzón River, if conditions permit.
Visit to the Aguas Sulfurosas spring and various viewpoints.

Participants are responsible for bringing their own personal items like comfortable shoes, swimwear, and insect repellent.

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Preparation and Requirements

To prepare for this adventure, participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

The tour requires a minimum of 2 passengers for departure, so solo travelers should inquire about joining existing groups or booking a private tour.

Visitors should be prepared for an extreme adventure, as the Grotto of the Sacred Mantle features challenging terrain and conditions.

Those seeking a more relaxed experience may enjoy the boat ride and visits to the Aguas Sulfurosas spring and scenic viewpoints instead.

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The Cueva De Las Lechuzas

As visitors embark on their underground adventure, the first stop is the Cueva de las Lechuzas, or Owls Cave. This captivating cave is home to a variety of bird species and bats, including the owls that give the cave its name.

Visitors can expect to:

Marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave’s interior.
Observe the unique habitat of the bats and other creatures that call the cave home.
Enjoy the mystical atmosphere as they navigate through the intricate rock formations.
If conditions permit, take a boat ride on the Monzón River, further enhancing the underground experience.

The Grotto of the Sacred Mantle

Nestled 25 km from Tingo María, the Grotto of the Sacred Mantle features captivating crystal-clear waters, cascading underground waterfalls, and whimsical rock formations.

This cave is a sought-after destination for extreme adventure enthusiasts, offering a truly mystical experience. Visitors can marvel at the intricate, geological wonders that adorn the cavern’s interior.

The tranquil, underground pools invite swimmers to refresh themselves amidst the cave’s serene ambiance.

Tranquil, underground pools beckon visitors to refresh themselves amidst the cave’s serene ambiance.

Trekking through this natural wonder allows guests to fully enjoy the cave’s enchanting atmosphere and discover its hidden treasures.

The Santa Carmen Waterfalls

The afternoon hike to the Santa Carmen Waterfalls allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the region.

The hike leads to a series of cascading waterfalls, where one can:

Swim in the refreshing, crystal-clear natural pools.
Admire the lush, verdant vegetation surrounding the falls.
Listen to the soothing sound of the rushing water.
Bask in the tranquil atmosphere and take in the stunning views.

After exploring the Santa Carmen Waterfalls, the tour returns to Tingo María, offering a final stop at Mirador de la Cruz for panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings.

Since You Asked

What Are the Recommended Camera Settings for the Cave Photography?

The dimly-lit cave environment requires a high ISO, wide aperture, and long exposure settings to capture the necessary light. Bringing a tripod is also recommended to avoid blurry photos.

How Challenging Is the Hiking and Climbing During the Tour?

The hike and climbing during the tour are moderately challenging. The trails involve some steep sections and uneven terrain, but they’re manageable for those with a reasonable level of fitness and experience in outdoor activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks, or Are They Provided?

The tour includes food and drinks, but participants can bring their own snacks and beverages if preferred. Transportation, entrance fees, and other specified services are provided as part of the package.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

There are no options to extend the tour or add additional activities. The tour package includes the specified itinerary and services. Travelers can bring their own food and drinks, as they’re not provided in the tour.

Are There Any Health or Medical Requirements for Participating in the Tour?

There are no specific health or medical requirements to participate in the tour. However, participants should be in good physical condition to handle the moderate hiking and cave exploration activities.

The Sum Up

The "Adventure in the Dark – Owls Cave & Santa Carmen Expedition" offers an unforgettable journey through the captivating Cueva de las Lechuzas and Cueva de Santa Carmen. Discover stunning cave formations, encounter unique wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Monzón River, healing hot springs, and the Santa Carmen Waterfalls. This exhilarating one-day adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: