Caving

Caving is the recreational pastime of exploring cave systems.

The challenges involved in the activity depend on the cave being visited, but often include the negotiation of pitches, squeezes and water (although actual cave diving is a separate, and much more dangerous, sub-specialty undertaken by very few cavers).

Safety

In recent decades, caving has changed considerably due to the availability of modern protective wear and equipment. The beauty of caving is that it does not require a great deal of equipment or training to get started.

The better shape you are in physically, the more you will get out of caving, but you do not have to be ready to scale the Matterhorn to begin enjoying underground exploration. A typical cave trip will consist of walking on uneven terrain, crawling (and squeezing) through low passageways or tunnels, and climbing up or down into whatever rooms the cave may feature. A good four to five hour trip has the potential to work every major muscle group in your body.

For more information on how to safely enjoy caving see our Safety and Adventure activities advice.

Be a responsible caver

Many cave formations have taken thousands of years to develop. A careless nudge can destroy them in an instant. Do not use chalk or spray paint to write 'This way out' or other directions on the cave walls.

The Western Australian Speleological Group is the State’s largest caving group and arranges expeditions. It is part of the Australian Speleological Federation, a federation of the majority of caving groups throughout Australia.