Jumandy Caves

The Jumandy caves run into limestone north of Archidona and are entered wading and scrambling along an underground stream, through chambers with stalactites, waterfalls and narrow squeezes, with a guide, a helmet and a lamp, coming out soaked. They take their name from Jumandy, the Kichwa leader who led a rising against the Spanish in 1578 and who is said to have used the caves. A recreation complex with pools has been built at the entrance, giving the place a slightly odd double character: a water park at the front, a wild cave behind. Bats, cave crickets and oilbirds live inside, and the deeper sections need real caving experience.

What you actually see

• Wading an underground stream - the route through the cave.
• Chambers and cave waterfalls - the formations along the way.
• Bats and oilbirds - the animals living in the dark.
• The Jumandy resistance story - the leader the caves are named for.

When to go

Year round, but avoid heavy rain, when water levels inside rise dangerously. Two to three hours. Guides, helmets and lamps are compulsory. Bring clothes you can soak.

Honest expectations

You get wet to the chest and muddy; this is not a walk-through show cave. Flash flooding is a genuine hazard after rain. The pool complex at the entrance is scruffy. Deeper passages are for experienced cavers only.

Nearby

Archidona is south; Tena lies beyond it.