Instructions for visiting the Gouffre de Padirac

With over 480,000 visitors a year, the Padirac chasm is one of the most visited underground sites in France. With so many visitors, it's best to plan your visit in advance. Here's our practical guide to the Padirac chasm, which you're sure to find useful.

Where can I buy tickets?

During the summer months, the Padirac chasm is often fully booked. So it's best to book your tickets online if you already know what day and time you want to visit. Please note: holiday vouchers cannot be used online. Opening times and ticket office: www.gouffre-de-padirac.com/fr/

Alternatively, you can buy tickets on site for the slots available on the day of your visit or for subsequent days. Holiday vouchers (ANCV only) are accepted at the box office.

Where can I park in the Padirac chasm?

Several car parks are available. They are free and open to all vehicles. Motorhomes are only allowed to park for the duration of the visit. For two-wheelers, no lockers are available to store your equipment.

Is the Padirac chasm easily accessible?

The site is partially accessible for wheelchairs. Despite the presence of lifts, you still have to take a number of steps once you reach the bottom. The visit will therefore be complicated for people with reduced mobility.

In addition, pushchairs are not allowed. You'll need to bring a baby carrier if you have a young child.

Finally, pets are not allowed.

What should you bring to visit the chasm?

With a constant temperature of 13°C at the bottom of the chasm, you'll need warm clothing and, if it's raining (or if it rained the day before your visit), waterproof clothing. Your shoes must be suitable for walking on damp ground.

Cameras and telephones for taking photographs or videos are permitted (without flash) during the walk, but prohibited during the boat trip. Selfie poles are not permitted.

How does a visit to the chasm work?

The total duration of the visit is 1h30, from the descent into the chasm to the underground walk through the various rooms. An audio guide (available in several languages) will be given to you on arrival for the duration of the visit.

What services are available on the site?

There are three points where you can eat and drink for a fee. You can also enjoy a picnic in one of the picnic areas on site.

There is a children's play area opposite the reception pavilion.

There is also a bookshop where you can buy souvenirs of the Padirac chasm.