Buried deep within the heart of Kangaroo Island lies a network of hidden caves, offering a unique glimpse into the Island’s history. Amongst them is Kelly Hill Caves, which is now open and is offering a brand-new immersive guided tour.
Stretching nine meters below the surface, embark on a journey as you take a step back in time with a guided tour at Kelly Hill Conservation Park, with narration and a light display to fully immerse yourself among the hidden wonders of the cave. An experience we cannot recommend enough.
An adventure for all
Your guided tour begins above ground, as you zig-zag your way uphill, surrounded by rejuvenated trees and shrubbery flourishing since the 2020 bushfires. Along the way, dotted viewing platforms and a sloping path ensure that those unable to use the steep stairs below ground can still gain access to insights into the caves' rich history and the natural wonders above ground.
The history of Kelly Hill Caves
Once a sandy hill, Kelly Hill Caves was transformed by rocky sea, petrifying the sand and hardening it into limestone to form the foundation of caverns to be explored. Although hardened, the cave has retained it’s softness, with water seeping through to form stalagmite and stalactite formations. Under 500,000 years old, remarkably these formations are mere infants compared to the ancient caves found elsewhere. The environment above, with towering eucalyptus trees, can be seen from below with roots reaching deep into the caverns to show growing formations.
Step back in time
Venture further into the caverns and you’ll be met with the newest installation in the caves, an audio-visual experience to take you on a journey, one that began before Kangaroo Island existed, when Australia formed part of one mega continent. Prepare to leap through the ages, from when the asteroid wipes out the dinosaurs, to the existence of humans who now explore these caves, explorers just like you.
Underground wonders
Kelly Hill Caves promises an experience new to the Island, a greater understanding of how Kangaroo Island was formed and the caves in which it stands on today. Nature has created an underground labyrinth of caverns that extend for kilometers, some not even explored yet.
Located a short drive from Flinders Chase National Park, incorporating a visit to Kelly Hill Caves into your itinerary kicks off an unforgettable day of exploration on the Western side of Kangaroo Island.
Are you ready to step back in time?
Open daily from 9.00am – 5.00pm.
