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Sarlat-la-Canéda
Pech Merle Cave & Saint Cirq Lapopie Village Private Discovery
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private tours
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Day Trips
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09 hours
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Small Groups ( 2~8 )
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Relaxed
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Multi-languages
English Français
- Highlights
- Program
- Gallery
- Know before
- Meeting point
- Reviews
- Inc. / Exc.
- FAQ
Select options and Book
Check availability
2026/06/19 and 2026/12/31
Highlights
- Enjoy breathtaking river views of the Lot
- Explore unique cave paintings and formations
- Learn from a local expert tour guide
- Wander the charming streets of Saint Cirq Lapopie
- Visit the prehistoric Pech Merle Cave
Program & Itinerary
Explore Pech Merle Cave: Ancient Wonders and Cave Art
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Quercy region, as we unveil the captivating Pech Merle Cave. This remarkable cave still showcases authentic cave drawings, paintings, and etchings that have endured for thousands of years. Venture deep into the caverns, extending over a mile from the entrance, adorned with awe-inspiring murals dating back to the Gravettian culture around 25,000 years B.C.
Some of these intricate artworks might even belong to the later Magdalenian era, approximately 16,000 years B.C. Adorned across the walls of seven chambers, you'll discover vibrant depictions of woolly mammoths, majestic horses, bovines, reindeer, handprints, and even human figures. Delve into the mysteries of the past and marvel at the preserved footprints of children, found more than half a mile underground, once trapped in clay.
Discover Saint Cirq Lapopie Village: A Picturesque Gem
After the awe-inspiring cave visit, we set off to explore the enchanting village of Saint Cirq Lapopie, renowned as one of the most beautiful villages in France. This remarkable village, strategically perched on a steep cliff 100 meters above the meandering river Lot, exudes charm and architectural marvels at every turn. Originally chosen for its defensive position, Saint Cirq Lapopie now stands as a meticulously preserved open-air museum.
Its picturesque allure captivated the renowned Post-Impressionist artist Henri Martin, attracting a host of other artists and even becoming the cherished home of writer André Breton. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this captivating village, immersing yourself in its rich history and artistic heritage.
Join us on this captivating tour, delving into the depths of Pech Merle Cave, discovering the charm of Saint Cirq Lapopie
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Pickup in Sarlat
Meet your guide at your accommodation in Sarlat and settle into a comfortable, air‑conditioned minivan for a full day exploring the Quercy region.Meet your guide at your accommodation in Sarlat and settle into a comfortable, air‑conditioned minivan for a full day exploring the Quercy region.Read moreRead less -
Drive to Pech Merle
Enjoy the scenic countryside as you drive toward Pech Merle, one of the few decorated prehistoric caves still open to the public.Enjoy the scenic countryside as you drive toward Pech Merle, one of the few decorated prehistoric caves still open to the public.Read moreRead less -
Guided visit of Pech Merle
Join a timed, one‑hour guided tour inside Pech Merle to admire original Paleolithic paintings, engravings and natural formations that have survived for tens of thousands of years.Join a timed, one‑hour guided tour inside Pech Merle to admire original Paleolithic paintings, engravings and natural formations that have survived for tens of thousands of years.Read moreRead less -
Drive to Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie
Continue by road to Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie, a spectacular medieval village perched high above a bend in the Lot River.Continue by road to Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie, a spectacular medieval village perched high above a bend in the Lot River.Read moreRead less -
Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie visit and free time
Explore the village’s cobbled lanes and viewpoints with your guide, then enjoy free time for your own discoveries and lunch at your own expense in one of the local cafés or restaurants.Explore the village’s cobbled lanes and viewpoints with your guide, then enjoy free time for your own discoveries and lunch at your own expense in one of the local cafés or restaurants.Read moreRead less -
Return to Sarlat
Relax on the afternoon drive back to Sarlat, where your guide drops you off at or near your hotel to end the tour.Relax on the afternoon drive back to Sarlat, where your guide drops you off at or near your hotel to end the tour.Read moreRead less
Gallery
Practical Information
2 participants minimumTotal price | 3 participantsPrice per person | 4 participantsPrice per person | 5 participantsPrice per person | 6 participantsPrice per person | 7 participantsPrice per person | 8 participantsPrice per person |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 760€ | 260€ | 200€ | 165€ | 140€ | 125€ | 110€ |
Know before you book
- Know before you book All entrance tickets and time slots for Pech Merle are pre‑organized for you
- Live availability and instant confirmation, secure your place immediately.
- The tour runs in English and is best for reasonably fit adults
Know before you go
- Cave is a cool 12°C (54°F) year‑round – pack a light jumper.
- Wear comfy closed shoes for steps, slopes and damp cave floors.
- Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie has steep, cobbled lanes – travel light and hands‑free.
- Bring water, sun protection and a small day bag only.
Additional information
Voucher info
Group information
Just get in touch to find out more! Contact us by email: groups@ophorus.com (groups from 8 people)
For groups of 2-8 people please fill out this form: ophorus.com/contact-us/
Meeting point /
Departure
Return
Reviews
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Diane E
16, Sep 2025
We thoroughly enjoyed both tours. Both Benoit and Lena were knowledgeable and friendly. We could not have asked for more from either of them. Both tours...
Included / excluded
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- English-speaking qualified guide/driver
- Entrance ticket to Pech Merle
Excluded
- Meals and drinks (lunch).
- Personal travel insurance & expenses.
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
FAQ
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Can I book this tour for a large group?
Yes, the tour accommodates groups of any size, and various transportation options are available for larger groups -
What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable closed shoes are recommended, along with a light jumper for the cooler cave temperatures -
Will I have time to explore Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?
Yes, the tour allows ample time to wander through the charming streets and browse the local galleries and shops -
What cancellation policy is in place for this tour?
Cancellations made up to 48 hours in advance incur no fees, while later cancellations are non-refundable -
Do I need to be physically fit to enjoy the tour?
While it is ideal for reasonably fit adults and older teens, be prepared for some walking on uneven ground and stairs -
Are meals included in the tour?
Meals are not included, so you are encouraged to bring snacks or enjoy lunch at your own expense during free time in Saint Cirq Lapopie village -
How do I get to the starting point in Sarlat?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for guests staying in Sarlat -
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour is available year-round, but check local weather conditions for comfort during the cave visit -
Is there a guided tour provided?
Yes, an English-speaking qualified guide will accompany you throughout the entire tour; local guide in the cave -
What can I expect to see at Pech Merle?
The tour includes stunning prehistoric cave paintings, including animals and hand stencils that date back over 25,000 years
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