Padirac Chasm & Rocamadour Village: A Spellbinding Discovery

FAQ

• Do you organize pick up and return at accommodation for Sarlat private tours?

  Yes, absolutely, we will come and pick you up at your hotel or accommodation in Sarlat. We can also pick you up within a radius of 30kms (20 miles) around Sarlat at no extra cost.

• What type of vehicles are used during your private tours from Sarlat?

  Our company uses only Mercedes Vito Tourer 8 seater minivans that are recent, comfortable and fully equipped including individual A/C, shaded windows, large leg space and on board P/A system for commentaries by the guide.

• Who conducts these Dordogne private tours from Sarlat?

  We only employ fully accredited, licensed tour guides that are also the drivers for all tours that need visits to be conducted by certified guides. Good examples are: the visit of the National Prehistory Museum, guided walking tours in villages such as Rocamadour, visit of historical monuments and so on. In the Dordogne, all our guides are experts in History & Culture. All have a large experience in Paleolithic Art and conduct tours in both Caves & Castles.

• How strenuous is this tour to Padirac & Rocamadour?

  Concerning Padirac:Persons with mobility issues are advised to go down by lift. However, please note that there are a further 70 steps to reach the level of the Underground River - 103 metres underground. You will then need to board a small boat.
  
  The gallery tour includes several sets of steps. Access to the Salle du Grand Dôme involves 150 steps going up and 150 steps going down.
  
  Concerning Rocamadour: Rocamadour is a medieval village. This implies that there are cobblestone streets that can be difficult to walk on. Also, the sanctuary is located in the middle part of the village and to reach it implies that you will need to climb stairs. However, there is a possibility of taking an elevator but this will be at your own expense.

• Is it cold inside Padirac Chasm?

  Yes, you will need to bring some warm clothing for the visit. Inside the chasm the temperature is of 13°C (55.5°F). We also advise that you wear comfortable walking shoes as there are uneven soils inside the chasm.

• How long is the visit in Padirac Chasm?

  The tour as a whole, starting in the Reception Hall, lasts for about 1½ hours, depending on your pace of exploration; You will cover a distance (out and back) of about 2.2 km (1.5 miles) , including 500 metres in a boat.

• Can I take photos during our tour in the Padirac Chasm

  Flash-free photography and filming are tolerated during your visit on foot but are prohibited during the boat trip for reasons of safety and comfort of visit.

  Warning: Selfie sticks are strictly forbidden everywhere on the site for safety reasons. 

• How many steps will we have to climb in Rocamadour?

  Once you have visited the village, you will arrive in front of the Great Staircase. This is the main pilgramage way to arrive at the sanctuary. There are about 216 stairs to climb so this can be challanging for some persons. Howere, there is an option to take an elevator for those that have walking issues or that feel that the climb will be too strenuous. The return price for the elevator is under 4€ at time of writing (11/2020).

• Is lunch included on this private tour from Sarlat?

  No, we never include lunch on our private full day tours from Sarlat. If you would like to include a lunch in a local restaurant don't hesitate to reach out and our travel advisors will take care of your restaurant reservation. Also, don't hesitate to ask your guide in the morning for recommendations.