Why choose this tour ?
A full Day Dedicated to Prehistory & Paleolithic Art in the Dordogne, guided by an Expert of the Paleolithic times. Private visit of the Prehistory museum in Les Eyzies, Visit Lascaux IV & Rouffignac Caves of the Dordogne. - This deep-dive is perfect for history buffs - Visit the fascinating National Prehistory Museum - Visit Lascaux IV cave & the International Center for Parietal Art - Admire original drawings & etchings at Rouffignac cave - Local Tour Guide, Expert of the Dordogne Region
What makes Private Full Day Prehistory and Paleolithic Art from Sarlat a unique experience ?
Delve into the captivating world of prehistoric art dating back 15,000 years B.C. The Dordogne region boasts extraordinary cave paintings, drawings, and etchings. This tour unveils this mesmerizing art and its creators. Start your day in Les Eyzies de Tayac with a guided visit to the National Prehistory Museum. Established in 2004, it houses 18,000 pieces and six million artifacts. Its roots date back to 1913 when researcher Denis Peyrony convinced France to acquire the Château des Eyzies, turning it into a museum. Explore the world’s largest collection of prehistoric artifacts. Your guide will lead you through key chapters of Hominid development, including an anthropological frieze and Africa’s early history, starting with Australopithecus. The museum’s seven permanent galleries offer a rich historiography of the Paleolithic era.
Next, we'll continue to Montignac, where you'll explore the remarkable Lascaux IV cave, opened to the public in December 2016. This extraordinary replica faithfully reproduces the original cave, offering an immersive experience in the discovery of its famous decorations. But the adventure doesn't end there. The site also delves into Lascaux's significance in cave art and its connection to contemporary creation. The International Center for Cave Art marks the beginning of an exciting journey that combines the emotional impact of ancestral art with remarkable technological achievements. Follow a guided tour led by a local expert, and then take your time to explore the exhibitions and the center for prehistoric cave art.
To conclude the tour, visit the awe-inspiring Rouffignac Cave, home to remarkable original cave paintings, etchings, and drawings. Mentioned as early as 1575, the cave gained popularity in the 19th century. Though explored by notable prehistorians, its art was authenticated only in 1956 by Louis-René Nougier and Romain Robert. Board an electric train for a 2-kilometer journey deep into the cave, stopping at spectacular drawings and etchings. At the cave’s bottom, admire a ceiling adorned with 66 swirling animal depictions, including Mammoths, Rhinoceroses, Bisons, Horses, and the rare Ibex. After this fascinating visit, return to Sarlat with lasting memories of an extraordinary journey into prehistory. Book your private tour today for an unforgettable experience.
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Warm jackets are highly recommended – 14°C (57°F) inside the caves
- Please note that the infant seats are available upon request, please inform us at the moment of the booking (number and age of the children)
- Tour involves some walking, good walking shoes recommended
- Group size is 8 persons maximum, please advise if children under 13 years old are joining the tour
- Pets are not allowed on tour
- English tours of the Caves of Lascaux IV are very limited in number, most of the visits are in French. Your guide will explain the cave before and after the tour as simultaneous translation in the cave is strictly forbidden.
- Electric train visit in Rouffignac : French comments
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
- Private Full Day Prehistory and Paleolithic Art from Sarlat
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Pickup included
Private Full Day Prehistory and Paleolithic Art from Sarlat Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- Pick up and drop off at the hotel
- Guided visit of the National Prehistory Museum
- Reservations for Lascaux and Rouffignac Caves
- English-speaking driver guide, Expert of the Dordogne (other languages on request)
- All entrance tickets included
- Travel in recent, comfortable & fully equipped minivan
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance and expenses
- Meals, drinks & other fees not mentioned in the program
- Gratuities for the driver/guide
- No children on laps. Booster seats are available for children.
Special Instructions:
Please be advised..
- This Tour is Provided by Ophorus.
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Paris.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 8 Travelers is accepted for booking.
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time).