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.
Pickup included
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.
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 10 minutes before departure time.
Departure point : your centrally located hotel in Sarlat. Return to departure point. Please inform your hotel name and address in the booking process.... Additional fees may apply when pick-up and drop-off outside of Sarlat.