The cave climate is cool and varies little from the annual 56°F (13°C) average temperature. A light jacket or sweater, and comfortable shoes with rubber soles for good traction are appropriate year-round.
NOTE: Baby strollers are not permitted in the cave. Bring a baby backpack if you need to carry your child.
Children 3 years of age and under are not permitted on any of the guided tours offered at Carlsbad Caverns. Minimum age requirements differ for each tour.
Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult that is at least 18.
We reserve the right to alter any tour due to safety and other conditions.
Until March 8, elevator service will be limited due to routine maintenance and repairs. Monday - Friday, no Left Hand Tunnel and Lower Cave tours. Kings Palace ranger guided tours offered at 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Last time to enter the cave via elevator is 1:30 p.m. Last time to enter on foot, via the Natural Entrance trail, 2:30 p.m.
Self-Guided Tours
The basic cavern entry is by way of two self-guided routes, the Big Room Route and the Natural Entrance Route. Tickets are sold at the visitor center each day, except December 25. Entrance fee tickets are good for three days but do not include guided or other special tours. Summer hours are in effect from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
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Guided Tours
Reservations are highly recommended for all guided cave tours. Make reservations by calling 1.877.444.6777 or by visiting the website. An entrance fee ticket is required in addition to the guided tour fee for Kings Palace, Left Hand Tunnel, Lower Cave and Hall of the White Giant. Note: Children 3 years of age and under are not permitted on any of the guided tours offered at Carlsbad Caverns. Minimum age requirements differ for each tour.
