Practical Guide to the Archaeological Park Divje Babe

What you need to know before your visit?

When you decide to visit the Archaeological Park Divje Babe, you step into a world where the past intertwines with the natural beauty of the Šebrelje Plateau. Known for the world’s oldest musical instrument – the Neanderthal flute – the cave is not only an archaeological treasure but also a perfect destination for those who wish to explore history, spirituality, and nature. Before embarking on this adventure, check out the tips below to make your visit as pleasant as possible.

The Divje Babe Cave is a tourist cave. To protect nature, tours to enter the cave are available from April to the end of October. Watch video about visit

1. Where is Divje Babe Cave Located?

Divje Babe Cave is located on the Šebrelje Plateau, part of the rugged Idrija-Cerkno Hills. Surrounded by stunning views of the Idrijca Valley and nearby hills, the visit is a visual treat. The cave is accessible by car to the parking lot and further to the cave along hiking trail. The closest towns are Idrija (29 km) and Cerkno (18 km). The roads leading to the valley or to the plateau are well-maintained, though slightly winding.
🗺️ Exact location and map: in Google maps search for Slovenian name “Arheološki park Divje Babe”
📍 Cave coordinates: 46.110057, 13.917226

2. How to Get to the Cave and Where to Park?

• Public Transport Options: Visitors who prefer public transport can use the SiMO app, which offers route planning for all public transportation options in Slovenia. The nearest bus stops are in Cerkno and Idrija, from where you can continue by local transport or on foot. More information is available on the SiMO website.
• Car Transport and Parking: Visitors can park in designated areas in the center of Šebrelje village or in Reka. Parking near the Church of St. John the Baptist is not allowed. The church also serves as the meeting point for guided tours.

The hiking trail to the cave has two routes:

1. PO MULATJERI Trail – Path from the village of Reka
   You can park in the valley by the Idrijca River in the settlement of Reka. The designated parking lot is located after the bridge across the river, on the left side of the river. From here, you will ascend the mulatjera trail, climbing high above the Idrijca River to the St. John’s Church, where you will meet the guide. This is an easy, marked trail suitable for children aged 5 and above. Hiking gear is required. In some sections, the path is partially exposed, so caution is advised. The hike takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with an elevation gain of 326 meters.
   Route Details:
   From the parking lot, follow the paved road on the left to the marked turn-off for the gravel path (marked as “Pot po mulatjeri”). Before reaching this point, you will encounter a junction for Divje Babe, which is the return path (a circular route). After passing the meadow, you begin to ascend into the forest, then follow a narrow marked path. Before reaching the top, you will climb along secured sections of the trail leading up to the St. John’s Church.

From St. John’s Church to Babja Jama Cave:
From the church, walk along the marked trail to the cave, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes one way. The path is about 500 meters long with an elevation difference of 120 meters. It is safe, though some sections are steep and have stairs, making it suitable for those ready for a more challenging walk.

Return to the parking lot:
Return to the starting point via the circular forest path from the cave. The return journey takes about 40 minutes.

2. The Trail from the Village of Šebrelje
Visitors can park in the center of the village of Šebrelje, where the road leads directly to the village. If you park in the village of Šebrelje, it is a 2.2 km walk (approximately 30 minutes) to the meeting point at St. John’s Church. Parking near the church of St. John the Baptist (Sv. Janez Krstnik) is not allowed as it is a protected area. The meeting point for guided tours is located at St. John’s Church.

3. What to Bring?

Practical Tips for Gear and Preparation:

• Water: There is no water source near the cave or church, so it’s advisable to bring enough water, especially in summer.
• Footwear: Wear hiking or sports shoes, as the path is partially steep and follows a natural terrain.
• Clothing: During hot months, bring a hat and a light sweater or jacket, as the cave’s temperature is typically around 15°C.
• Food: In Šebrelje, the Polak Homestead offers group tastings of local products by prior arrangement. Near Šebrelje, in the village of Reka, you can find the Zajc Brewery and Kurn’k Refreshment House near the parking area. For a hearty meal, there is also a cozy inn in Zakojca, close to Šebrelje.

4. When is the Best Time to Visit?

Divje Babe Cave is open to visitors from April to October. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the temperatures are pleasant, and the natural scenery is breathtaking. Summer can be busier, so booking in advance is recommended.
⚠️ Important: The cave is closed during winter.

5. Guided Tours and Tickets

The cave can only be visited with a guide, ensuring an authentic and educational experience. Guided tours last approximately two hours and include explanations of the site’s historical significance as well as interactive presentations.

• English Tours: Available on Saturdays or by prior arrangement.
• Digital Experience: Divje Babe is Slovenia’s first digitized cave, featuring wall projections that recreate the Neanderthal era and showcase the evolution of the world’s oldest musical instrument. Watch video teaser

✅ Book your tour on the web page World’s Oldest Musical Instrument

✅ You can also download PDF brochure Visit Divje Babe here.

6. Admission Fees

Admission fees are required and payable at the guided tour location. Prior registration for guided tours is mandatory at least three working days in advance, as slots are limited. Ticket prices vary by age group and group size.
📌 More about ticket prices on web page Soča Valley

7. Additional Practical Information

• Toilets: Facilities are available near the Church of St. John, the meeting point for guided tours.
• Accommodation: Nearby towns like Idrija or Cerkno offer various lodging options.
• Photography: Photography inside the cave is not allowed.

8. Restrictions

• Accessibility: Due to steep stairs, the path to the cave is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
• Virtual Experience: Since the end of 2024, the Divje Babe Cave can also be explored via VR glasses in Cerkno little town, offering a virtual experience with projections. Advance booking with the Cerkno Tourism Office is required at least three working days before the visit.

8. Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must be leashed. A muzzle may also be required if necessary.

9. Circular Trail

After visiting the cave, you can follow a circular hiking trail leading to the village of Reka. The route is scenic, with safety railings and beautiful views of the Idrijca

 Valley, ending at the parking area near the information board by the bridge. The walk takes about 30 minutes.

• First Section: Descend stairs with railings (about 50 m), continuing to the end of the ridge. The trail transitions to a forest gravel path that descends approximately 200 m.
• Rest Area: A bench at a curve in the trail offers a spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
• Final Stretch: A 500-meter section passes through the forest, leading to meadows above the Reka homesteads. The trail then turns right, bringing you to the main road with a stunning view of the Idrijca River bridge.

10. Conclusion: Why Visit Divje Babe cave?

A visit to Divje Babe Cave offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of music and Neanderthal life while enjoying the natural beauty of the Šebrelje Plateau. Whether it’s an educational excursion, a family outing, or an adventure with friends, this experience will leave you inspired.

Book your visit today and embark on a journey to the time of the first melodies!

Manca Slabe, Šebrelje