Lascaux IV International Center : A Glimpse into Prehistoric Cave Art
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.
Itinerary
Place Pasteur Meeting point
Meet your guide
Lascaux IV Centre International de l'Art Pariétal, Montignac, France
Visit Lascaux IV Museum
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 is a concise tour to whet your appetite for further discovery of the wonders of the Dordogne and its glorious landscape and culinary delights.. Anne was a marvelous and knowledgeable guide who speaks several languages fluently (French, English and Spanish at least). I am grateful to her for waiting for me to escape the hold of the ghost of King Richard the Lionhearted at the Château de Beynac.
(Translated by Google) A lovely tour of the Dordogne castles, beautiful views, and a very friendly and knowledgeable guide, thank you Ana. (Original) Un precioso tour por los castillos de la Dordoña, lindas vistas, y una guía muy simpática y conocedora del lugar, gracias Ana.
Great day trip from Strasbourg. Our guide was personable and informative and we were taken to three smaller family wineries where the owner/family member conducted a fulsome and friendly tasting. Also a nice break for lunch in a picturesque town. Definitely recommend for a chance to see the countryside and get a better sense of Alsatian wines.
Additional information
The Vézère Valley contains one of the world’s greatest concentrations of prehistoric sites, with more than 150 archaeological locations and decorated caves recognized by UNESCO.
Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle.