Lascaux IV Cave Art Half-Day Tour from Sarlat - Small Group
About this activity
Travel from Sarlat to the world-famous Lascaux IV International Centre for Cave Art. Discover the complete replica of the prehistoric cave, admire Paleolithic paintings, and explore one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
Highlights
- Visit the world-famous Lascaux IV cave replica
- Discover prehistoric cave paintings over 17,000 years old
- Explore the International Centre for Cave Art
- Learn about Paleolithic life and artistic techniques
- Guided commentary on prehistoric discoveries
Full description
Step back into the world of prehistoric art on this half-day small-group tour from Sarlat to Lascaux IV, the International Centre for Cave Art in Montignac. Known as the “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory,” the Lascaux cave contains extraordinary paintings created more than 17,000 years ago by early humans. Because the original cave is now closed for conservation, Lascaux IV offers an exact replica allowing visitors to admire the paintings in remarkable detail.
During your visit, discover scenes of horses, bison, and deer painted by Cro-Magnon artists and learn about the techniques, beliefs, and daily life of prehistoric societies. This immersive experience provides a fascinating journey into humanity’s earliest artistic expressions.
The Discovery of Lascaux
The Lascaux cave was discovered in 1940 near the village of Montignac in the Vézère Valley, an area exceptionally rich in prehistoric sites and now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage area.
The “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory”
The cave contains hundreds of paintings and engravings representing animals such as bulls, horses, and deer, created by prehistoric artists more than 17,000 years ago.
Lascaux IV: The Complete Replica
To preserve the original cave, the modern Lascaux IV center reproduces the entire cave in full scale using advanced scanning and artistic reconstruction techniques.
Visitors walk through the facsimile cave before exploring interactive exhibition spaces dedicated to prehistoric art and human history.
An Immersive Prehistoric Experience
The International Centre for Cave Art also features interactive galleries, educational displays, and multimedia installations explaining the techniques and meaning of prehistoric cave paintings.
A Unique Cultural Experience in the Dordogne
Located about 25 minutes from Sarlat, Lascaux IV offers one of the most fascinating cultural discoveries in southwestern France.
Included / Excluded
- Transportation in premium air-conditioned minivan
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Lascaux IV entrance tickets
- Small-group experience (max 8 guests)
- Meals and personal expenses
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
Meeting point
Start Location
Place Pasteur, Sarlat-la-Canéda, FR
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time at Place Pasteur Bus stop, Sarlat.
Operating hours
April 1, 2026 - October 31, 2026
- Tuesday02:00 PM
- Wednesday02:00 PM
- Saturday02:00 PM
Important information
Know before you book
- Lascaux IV is a replica of the original cave, which is closed for preservation
- Minimum number of 2 participants (adults) applies.
- Tour is operated in English.
- Hotel pick up not available.
- This tour is not available in August.
Know before you go
- Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time at Place Pasteur Bus stop, Sarlat.
- You must wear good walking shoes for this tour.
- You must bring warm clothes for the visit of the cave.
- Visit includes walking through museum spaces
- Photography inside the cave replica may be restricted
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are non-refundable.
Reviews
This was fantastic. Absoutely magical. Highlight of my trip for the christmas Markets. You do not want to miss this
We had a wonderful experience exploring the countryside. Obernai in particular was charming and lively. The town square was magical and felt like a fairytale. The other towns were equally pretty but because it was a Sunday, most shops were closed. I think had we gone any other day more would have been available. That said, our guide Lea was outstanding. She was very knowledgeable and entertaining. The vehicle was a brand new Mercedes van and very comfortable.
Wonderful experience! Charmine is our guide and driver, she is very professional and very nice. Unforgettable day.
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Additional information
Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle.