Explore the caves in Marbella and uncover the secrets of the Costa del Sol

Welcome to the fascinating world of caving in Marbella, a unique experience that combines nature, adventure and discovery. Whether you are an outdoor sports enthusiast or simply intrigued by the secrets hidden within Andalusian geology, exploring the caves in Marbella is an experience that will mark a before and after in your journey.

Caves in Marbella: discover the underground caves of the Costa del Sol

There are many ways to discover the Costa del Sol. You can do it from the sea, sailing along its golden beaches, or from above, admiring the mountains that shelter Marbella. But there’s another way, less known yet far more surprising, to experience this southern corner of Spain: from beneath the ground.

Under the mountains surrounding the city lies a silent and mysterious world, sculpted by water and time. Caverns, galleries and sinkholes reveal the deepest history of Andalusia. Entering them is not just an adventure — it’s a different way of seeing the Costa del Sol: far from the crowds, close to nature, and even closer to yourself.

Just a few kilometres from the bustle of the coast, you’ll find mountain landscapes with dolines, chasms, cavities and natural caves carved by millions of years of erosion. Here, the contrast between the blue of the sea and the green of the mountains creates the perfect setting for those seeking adventure, nature and disconnection.

The most impressive caves near Marbella

Caving is much more than venturing into a cave. It is the science and art of exploring the underground world — a journey between stalactites and stalagmites that reveals the geological history of the planet. Doing it in Marbella has a special charm, as the Serranía de Ronda and the Sierra de las Nieves National Park offer one of the most spectacular karst landscapes in Andalusia.

Although Marbella itself doesn’t have large tourist caves open to the public, its strategic location provides easy access to some of the most spectacular caves in the Costa del Sol and Andalusia. These are the top recommendations if you wish to experience caving during your stay:

1. Nerja Cave (Nerja)

The Nerja Cave is a must-see for every nature lover. Known as “the Natural Cathedral of the Costa del Sol”, it was discovered by chance in 1959 and is home to one of the largest columns in the world, formed by the union of a stalactite and a stalagmite.

Its galleries extend for over 4,800 metres and conceal prehistoric cave paintings more than 40,000 years old. Its natural acoustics are so impressive that each summer it hosts the Nerja International Festival of Music and Dance.

• How to get there: by car via the A-7 motorway, direction Málaga–Nerja. Approximately 2 hours from Marbella.

2. Treasure Cave (Rincón de la Victoria)

Located in the municipality of Rincón de la Victoria, this is one of only three marine caves in the world that can be visited. Its origin lies in the erosion of limestone by the sea over millions of years, resulting in striking galleries, underground lakes and passageways steeped in legend.

According to local tradition, an Arab treasure remains hidden within its chambers. Beyond the myth, the Treasure Cave is a geological marvel with a fascinating history.

• How to get there: via the A-7 motorway towards Málaga, exit Rincón de la Victoria. Around 1 hour and 30 minutes from Marbella.

3. La Pileta Cave (Benaoján, Serranía de Ronda)

If you are passionate about archaeology and untamed caves, this is a must-visit. Discovered in 1905 by a local farmer, La Pileta Cave houses Upper Palaeolithic cave paintings depicting horses, fish and mysterious symbols.

Visits are conducted in small groups with torches, enhancing the sense of adventure. There are no artificial walkways or coloured lights — just you, the darkness, and thousands of years of history.

• How to get there: 1 hour 15 minutes from Marbella, direction Ronda and then Benaoján.

4. Sima del Diablo (Jubrique, Sierra Bermeja Natural Park)

This cave, located in a natural setting of waterfalls and pools, is perfect for those seeking a combined caving and canyoning adventure. With the support of a professional guide, you can descend through the mountain following the watercourse, encountering abseiling sections and small waterfalls. It’s an ideal activity for groups of friends or adventurous couples in good physical condition.

• Where to book the excursion: Aventura Ronda, Team4You Marbella or Rumbonatura.

The lesser-known (and most authentic) caves of the Costa del Sol

If you’ve already visited the main tourist caves and are looking for something off the traditional route, there are several lesser-known cavities in the province that deserve a special mention:

• Hundidero Cave (Montejaque): an impressive underground system connecting with the Cueva del Gato, with more than 4 km of galleries.
• Cueva del Gato (Benaoján): declared a Natural Monument of Andalusia, its entrance beside the Guadiaro River offers one of the most photogenic landscapes of inland Málaga.
• Cueva del Agua (Igualeja): located near the source of the Genal River, ideal for a quieter, more contemplative experience.

All of them form part of the province’s vast underground natural heritage, which makes the Costa del Sol an ideal destination for adventure lovers.

How to enjoy caving safely

Exploring the underground world is a unique experience, but it also requires caution and respect for the environment. Here are some useful tips:

• Always hire certified guides: they know the routes, levels of difficulty and safety conditions.
• Use the right equipment: helmet with headlamp, thermal clothing, non-slip boots and gloves.
• Avoid going alone: caves can be confusing and the terrain slippery.
• Respect the environment: do not touch formations, leave no litter and avoid unnecessary noise.
• Check the difficulty level: some caves are accessible for beginners; others require experience and good physical condition.

When is the best time for caving in Marbella?

The Mediterranean climate means that any time of year is suitable for caving, but the best months are from October to May, when temperatures are milder and there are fewer tourists.

During the summer, some caves offer night-time or sunset guided tours, adding a magical touch to the experience.

How to book caving excursions from Marbella

If you are staying in Marbella and want to book an excursion hassle-free, here are some recommended active tourism companies. All of them include equipment, insurance and transport from your accommodation in Marbella or nearby areas.

• Aventura Ronda: specialists in canyoning and caving in the Serranía.
• Naturexperience Andalusia: sustainable tourism and guided routes in the Sierra de las Nieves.
• Turismo Activo Costa del Sol: combined packages including caves, hiking and kayaking.

An experience that connects body, mind and nature

Practising caving in Marbella is not just a physical activity. It’s a sensory and emotional journey that helps you reconnect with yourself and the earth. In a world where everything happens fast, descending into the silence of a cave reminds you that nature has its own rhythm — slow, patient, eternal. Leaving the sea to venture beneath the ground is to discover another side of the Costa del Sol — one that few know, but which leaves a lasting impression on those who dare to explore it.

Where to stay in Marbella to enjoy nature

After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than returning to a place where comfort and tranquillity are guaranteed. Banus Rentals offers carefully selected apartments and villas on the Costa del Sol, designed to make the most of the area — close to the sea, surrounded by nature, and with all the comforts of home.

Whether you’re looking for a retreat in the hills of Nueva Andalucía, a family villa near San Pedro, or a beachfront penthouse in Puerto Banús, we have the perfect accommodation for you.