Ngilgi Cave & Cape Naturaliste

OVERVIEW

Explore the geological wonders in the Ngligi Caves and the stunning natural beauty above the ground throughout Cape Naturaliste. Discovered in 1899, the caves were named for the good spirit Ngilgi, who battled an evil spirit in an Aboriginal legend. As you walk through the caves, you will see a variety of stalactites, stalagmites and helictities; the latter being a type of mineral deposit that grows in unexpected directions and seems to defy gravity. Some of the formations resemble waterfalls and shawls, the most spectacular of which are eerily illuminated with colored lights for dramatic effect. The above-ground views are equally spectacular, as you will see from the lighthouse on Cape Naturaliste. There is plenty to see whether you visit the museum or walk around the expansive observation deck. Considered to be the first tourist attraction in Western Australia, the lighthouse rises above the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, an oasis of greenery.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through the Ngligi Caves, which lie beneath a limestone ridge on Cape Naturaliste.
• Observe the oddly shaped, eerily illuminated formations within the caves.
• Gaze out over the natural beauty from the Cape Naturaliste lighthouse observation deck.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.