If you’re wondering why exploring the Lascaux Caves is such a unique experience, you’ve come to the right place.
I give you all the information you need to visit Lascaux IV.
The Lascaux caves: a prehistoric treasure in the heart of the Dordogne
The Lascaux caves in south-west France are a national treasure.
Discovered by chance by four teenagers in 1940, these caves are home to some of the most impressive prehistoric paintings known to date.
With over 2,000 representations of animals, signs and symbols, they offer a fascinating window into the world of our ancestors. It is estimated that these paintings were created 17,000 years ago.
These works of art, painted by Paleolithic man, remain a mystery to researchers, but their beauty and complexity are undeniable.
Why are the Lascaux caves called Lascaux IV?
The Lascaux caves are world-famous and have been visited by millions of people.
Since their discovery in 1940, the preservation of these fragile paintings has become a major concern. That’s why several replicas of the caves have been created to allow the public to discover them while preserving the originals.
So, when you visit Lascaux, you’re visiting reproduced caves, not the original ones.
Lascaux IV, officially known as the Centre International de l’Art Pariétal Montignac-Lascaux, is the most recent and complete copy of the cave, opened in 2016. It offers a complete reconstruction of the original cave, as well as an interactive museum dedicated to cave art.
It should be noted that only Lascaux II was in the immediate vicinity of the original cave, while Lascaux IV is located a little further away in the commune of Montignac.
Highlights of a visit to the Lascaux caves
- Immerse yourself in some of the world’s richest and most complex prehistoric art
- The chance to learn more about human history and our earliest means of expression
- Modern facilities for a pleasant visitor experience
- Competent guides shed valuable light on the history and context of the paintings
Disadvantages of a visit to the Lascaux caves
- The original is closed to the public for preservation purposes, so visits are made in a replica.
- In high season, the number of visitors is very high
- Artificial lighting, although necessary, can slightly alter the perception of the paintings.
What can you see at the Caves of Lascaux?
The Lascaux Caves offer a wealth of opportunities for visitors.
You can admire the famous prehistoric paintings and engravings, depicting a variety of animals including horses, deer and aurochs.
The guides will provide detailed information on the painting techniques used by prehistoric artists and the cultural significance of these works.
As well as visiting the caves, you can also visit the Centre International de l’Art Pariétal. It offers interactive exhibitions and educational workshops to deepen your understanding of prehistoric art.
Finally, don’t miss the 3D films that recreate the environment of the Paleolithic era.
How much does it cost to enter the Lascaux caves?
Several prices and tours of the Lascaux caves are available.
Lascaux IV entrance ticket price:
- 22€ for one person aged 13 and over
- 14.50€ for a child from 5 to 12 years old
- Free for a child under 5.
The price of an entrance ticket to Lascaux IV and the Parc du Thot:
- 26.20€ for a person aged 13 and over
- 17.20€ for a child from 5 to 12 years old
- Free for a child under 5.
The price for an entrance ticket to Lascaux IV and Laugerie-Basse:
- 24.80€ for a person aged 13 and over
- 16.50€ for a child from 5 to 12 years old
- Free for a child under 5.
The price of an entrance ticket to Lascaux IV, Parc du Thot and Laugerie-Basse:
- 32.90 for a person aged 13 and over
- 21.50€ for a child from 5 to 12 years old
- Free for a child under 5.
The price of an entrance ticket to Lascaux IV, Parc du Thot, Grand Roc and Laugerie-Basse:
- 38.50 for a person aged 13 and over
- 25.20€ for a child from 5 to 12 years old
- Free for a child under 5.
Check out the current price on GetyourGuide.
How long does a visit to the Lascaux caves last?
A complete visit to the Lascaux caves, including the Centre International de l’Art Pariétal, usually takes between two and three hours.
Where are the Lascaux caves located?
The Lascaux caves are in south-west France. They are in the small town of Montignac-Lascaux in the Dordogne.
How do I get to the Lascaux caves?
By car, the Lascaux Caves are accessible from the A89 freeway. Take exit 17, direction Montignac.
For those traveling by public transport, take the train to Brive-la-Gaillarde or Périgueux station, then the bus to Montignac.
What are the opening times for the Lascaux Caves?
Lascaux IV opening times vary:
- January 23 to April 7: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- April 8 to July 9: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- July 10 to August 27: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- August 28 to November 5: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- November 6 to December 31: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Opinions on the Lascaux Caves: is it a good visit?
I went to see the Lascaux Caves with enormous pleasure. I’d been hearing about this cave and its paintings since elementary school. Seeing it once in my life seemed almost an obligatory step.
Admittedly, you haven’t seen the original cave for a long time. But the replica of the original cave is very well done, and the atmosphere is truly unique. You feel transported back in time to a world where people still lived in the Stone Age.
The cave paintings are astonishingly detailed and vivid, especially when you consider that they were made thousands of years ago. I felt a sense of humanity in these paintings, made by men whose lives were very different from ours.
The guides do an excellent job of explaining the paintings and I’ve learned a lot about the history and culture of this distant era.
Lascaux IV features interactive exhibits on prehistoric art and the life of Cro-Magnon man. It’s interesting and well done, and really adds something to the visit.
It’s worth knowing that the visit can be quite tiring, especially if you’re not used to walking on uneven terrain. What’s more, it’s quite cool inside the cave, so remember to bring a jacket.
What else can you do near the Lascaux Caves?
In addition to a visit to the Lascaux caves, there are many other wonders to discover in the region:
- Explore the charming town of Sarlat, famous for its market and medieval heritage.
- Visit Château de Beynac, a magnificent 12th-century château with panoramic views over the Dordogne.
- Relax in the Jardins de Marqueyssac, a French-style garden.
- Visit the Musée de la Préhistoire in Les Eyzies to complete your prehistoric experience.
- Discover other caves in the region, such as Grotte de Rouffignac and Grotte de Font-de-Gaume.
DenisAs a professional blogger, I take advantage of my flexible schedule to travel a lot. I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!
