Two dragon den caving experience

Imagine exploring a cave so deep and mysterious that only a handful of explorers have dared to venture inside since the 1970s. Now, picture doing this in the company of friendly locals, staying in a charming mountain homestay, and enjoying home-cooked Sichuan cuisine that’s truly authentic. That’s exactly what the Two Dragon Den Caving Experience offers—an extraordinary journey in southwestern China, near Chongqing, for $621 per person.

This tour, led by the dedicated team at Trial Blazers, combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery across two full days of exploration. Over 30 days, you can check availability for start dates—perfect for fitting into most travel plans. We love how this trip is designed for beginners and experienced cavers alike, emphasizing safety while delivering a genuinely memorable experience.

Two standout features are the personalized attention from guides, including abseiling instruction from certified firefighters and professional photographers capturing your every move, and the delicious, traditional home-cooked meals prepared by welcoming local hosts. A potential consideration is that the whole experience involves some physical activity—not strenuous, but definitely not suitable for those with serious mobility issues or very young children.

If you’re someone who loves discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, appreciates local culture, and enjoys a mix of adventure and comfort, this tour will suit you well. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to try something different, with the safety and support of experienced guides.

Key Points

• Unique Cave Exploration: Venture 200-300 meters into a cave once explored briefly in the early 1970s.
• Authentic Local Hospitality: Stay with a mountain homestay owner whose meals are freshly cooked from her own farm produce.
• Safety and Comfort: Gear, helmets, wet suits, and certified guides ensure a worry-free adventure.
• Stunning Scenery: After caving, enjoy breathtaking views reminiscent of Jurassic Park landscapes.
• All-Inclusive Photography: Professional drone and DSLR coverage mean you’ll leave with lasting memories.
• No Prior Experience Needed: Suitable for anyone with an adventurous spirit, regardless of fitness level.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details: What to Expect from the Two Dragon Den Caving Experience

Getting There and Initial Impressions

Your adventure begins with a drive out of Chongqing, heading into the mountains of Sichuan. This is a journey that immediately sets the tone—away from the city’s buzz, into lush, scenic landscapes that seem straight from a movie set. On the way up, you’ll stop at a local mart to stock up on snacks, instant noodles, and energy foods for the upcoming day. That’s a thoughtful touch, giving you a chance to choose the perfect lunch—perhaps noodles cooked in the cave or a quick snack from the local shop.

The journey itself is part of the thrill, with winding mountain roads offering panoramic views. Once at the village near the cave, you’ll be greeted by locals whose warmth and hospitality immediately make you feel at home. The homestay is beautiful, spotless, and filled with character. The owner, an old lady, will prepare all your meals from ingredients grown in her garden—her potatoes are said to be unlike anything you’ve tasted in China, and her generosity is evident in every dish.

Day 1: Settling In and Gearing Up

In the afternoon, you’ll receive a safety briefing and abseiling instruction from qualified Chinese firefighters. This is a highlight, especially for first-timers, as you’ll learn how to navigate the rugged cave environment with confidence. The guides emphasize safety, and every participant is fitted with protective gear—waterproof suits that make you look like a character from Money Heist, helmets, harnesses, and headlamps.

Photographers and drone operators follow you throughout, capturing your experience in vivid detail. Many reviews mentioned how much they appreciated these professional photos and videos, which are included in the price. We loved the way being documented added to the thrill, turning a tense moment into a fun memory.

Day 2: The Main Event—Cave Exploration

The real adventure begins early, with a traditional home-cooked breakfast featuring fresh ingredients. After gearing up, you’ll head into the cave around 8:30 a.m., ready for a full seven-hour exploration. The cave itself is a marvel—deep, dark, with narrow passages, stalactites, stalagmites, and the kind of natural formations that make you feel like you’re inside a Jurassic Park scene.

The guides are serious about safety; they’ve put up markings, installed hooks, and tested all protection gear. They’ve also made the cave accessible to those without prior experience, offering abseiling and climbing opportunities suitable for beginners. No worries—if you’re not comfortable with a particular challenge, the guides are patient and accommodating.

Throughout the day, you’ll have chances to buy snacks, cook noodles in the cave’s designated areas, and enjoy the camaraderie of your small group. The local guides’ knowledge ensures you’re safe and well-informed, and their friendliness shines through in their care for each person.

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Post-Caving and Return

After a long day underground, you’ll emerge into the stunning daylight—greeted by views that seem straight out of a Jurassic world. The scenery is surreal, with dense forests and dramatic cliffs. You’ll return to the homestay for a hearty dinner, sharing stories with fellow adventurers.

The journey back to Chongqing is smooth, arriving in the evening after dinner. If you’re staying longer, the guides can recommend nearby accommodations or sights to visit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for intrepid travelers who relish authentic, hands-on adventures. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a memorable escape from city life, enjoy learning new skills like abseiling, and want to learn about local culture and cuisine. The tour’s relaxed pace and emphasis on safety make it accessible to most, though it’s not recommended for very young children or those with health issues.

If you’re after luxury or high-end comforts, this might not be your best fit—this is about genuine exploration, friendly locals, and raw natural beauty. But if you’re craving an adventure that blends adrenaline, culture, and spectacular scenery, this trip is a true treasure.

Practical Information and Tips

• Price: At $621, this tour offers great value given the inclusions—two full days of guided exploration, accommodation, meals, gear, and professional photography.
• Duration: 2 days, 1 night—perfect for fitting into a longer China itinerary or a dedicated adventure trip.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 participants for an intimate experience.
• Physical Requirements: No special fitness needed, but expect some climbing, crawling, and abseiling.
• What to Bring: Passport, sturdy shoes (trekking shoes recommended and available for purchase), change of clothes, outdoor gear, and a long pants and outdoor clothing.
• Not Allowed: Bare feet—safety first.
• Languages: The tour is conducted in English, making communication easy for international travelers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides provide abseiling lessons and safety gear, making it accessible for those with no prior experience.

What should I wear for the cave exploration?
Comfortable, outdoor clothing including long pants and trekking shoes. The tour provides waterproof suits, but bring your own shoes if preferred.

Are meals included?
Yes, two home-cooked dinners and breakfast are included. Lunch on the second day is not included but can be purchased en route.

Can I buy extra snacks or water?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to buy snacks and hot water during the trip—bringing a hot water flask is recommended.

How is safety managed during the cave exploration?
Every participant is equipped with safety gear, and guides are certified firefighters. The cave has marked routes and safety hooks.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified, the scenic beauty and cave conditions suggest most seasons are suitable, but check local weather before booking.

Is insurance included?
Yes, insurance is part of the package.

How long is the whole experience?
Two days, including travel, preparation, and exploration.

Will I receive photos and videos?
Absolutely, professional drone footage and DSLR photos are included, so you’ll have lasting memories.

Can I extend my stay in Chongqing afterward?
Yes, the tour provider can recommend accommodations and sights. Feel free to ask for suggestions.

Final Thoughts

The Two Dragon Den Caving Experience offers a rare chance to explore a mysterious, deep cave in China’s Sichuan province, combined with warm local hospitality and stunning scenery. It’s a perfect pick for travelers who want to challenge themselves in a safe, well-organized environment while soaking in authentic culture and incredible landscapes.

You’ll leave with unforgettable images, a sense of accomplishment, and stories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious first-timer, this tour provides a genuine, enriching experience that’s well worth the price. Just be ready to embrace the unexpected—and enjoy every minute of it.

You can check availability for your dates here: