Oaxaca is home to some of the deepest caves in the world
The caves and caverns in the state of Oaxaca come in all shapes and sizes and are among some of the deepest caves in the world, in particular “El Sotano de San Agustin” (Saint Agustin’s cellar) located in the Sierra Mazateca mountain range near Huatla de Jiménez. Many of the caves are only partially explored and others like the cave at Apoala are closely linked with local folklore. Chevé’s cave wasn’t even expolored until 1996, at least by modern potholers (The remains of a pre-hispanic explorer were found inside)
It is the physical properties of the earth in Oaxaca that has been accredited with the facilitation of the creation of these profound attractions, and it is the natural beauty and grandeur that keeps attracting potholers from all over the globe to come and explore them.
Some popular caves and caverns in Oaxaca
Apoala Cave – Apoala, Oaxaca
Apoala cave consists of two large caverns, one of which has a large underground lagoon. Apoala Cave itself is located near the village of Santiago Apoala, which is about two and a half hours drive from Oaxaca City.
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San Sebastián Cave – Oaxaca
The San Sebastián cave system is a large cave system that is partially open to the public, and guides are available to take you into the cave. The San Sebastián cave system is surrounded by picturesque grass and woodland areas and there is accommodation available should you wish to stay the night. San Sebastián is located just outside the town of San Sebastián de las Grutas.
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Sótano de San Agustín – Oaxaca
The Sótano de San Agustín cave is one of the deepest in the world, the deepest cave in America and one of the longest. The Sótano de San Agustín isn’t yet fully explored and is recommended for professionals only who have the correct equipment needed for this exhibition. The Sótano de San Agustín cave is located in Huautla de Jiménez.
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Lázaro Cárdenas – Oaxaca
Lázaro Cárdenas is a cave near to the small town of Santo Domingo Petapa, which in turn is near to San Matías Romero just inland of the Oaxacan coast. It is approximately six and a half hours drive from Oaxaca City.
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A map of Oaxaca’s caves
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