Undara Lava Tube Tours Visual Story

Logo

Arrival and Tour Check in

Access to the Undara Lava Tubes is by guided tour only. Guests arrive and park at a designated departure point outside the Undara Volcanic National Park.  A small pop-up marquee provides seating and cover for those waiting for the tour. An accessible bathroom with grab bars is located nearby.

Visitors can be seen checking their vehicles, eating snacks, and chatting while waiting for others to arrive. When the tour begins, an air-conditioned coach with an accessible lift transports guests into the national park.

The professional savannah guide shares information about the region’s geology, wildlife, and plants. As the coach travels through the outback, guests may notice a steady elevation, hinting at the vast volcanic landscape surrounding central Queensland.

A rural road with a reddish-brown surface curves to the right. On the left, there are several signs, including one with an image of a cow and another with text. Sparse trees and grassland extend into the background. On the right, a blue directional sign with white text and arrows is visible. The sky is mostly cloudy with patches of blue. The ground is a mix of grass and gravel.
A small, simple bathroom with light-coloured walls and a wooden floor. On the left, there is a white composting toilet with a handrail and a small sink area with a soap dispenser and hand sanitiser. Various instructional signs are posted on the wall. On the right, a folding table holds a box of tissues. A small window near the ceiling allows natural light to enter. The ceiling is plain and matches the walls.
A rural road stretches into the distance, flanked by trees and grassland. On the left, a large tree stands near a black cylindrical object and two signs, one with an orange background. On the right, another orange sign is visible, along with a black and white striped post. The road is bordered by wooden fences on both sides, and the sky is overcast with patches of blue.
A dirt road on the right curves into the distance, bordered by sparse trees and dry grass. On the left, a wider, darker gravel road runs parallel, also lined with trees. In the centre, a sign reads "Undara Lava Tube Tours" with tour times listed. The sky is overcast, and the landscape is flat with scattered vegetation.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Wind rustling leaves
  2. Distant vehicle engines
  3. Birds chirping
  4. People chatting
  5. Footsteps on gravel
Smell

Smells

  1. Fresh earth
  2. Eucalyptus trees
  3. Vehicle exhaust
  4. Dry grass
  5. Clean air
Touch

Feel

  1. Sense of anticipation
  2. Outback air on skin
  3. Firm ground
  4. Comfortable seating
  5. Interaction with staff
Sight

Sight

  1. Open landscape
  2. Parked vehicles
  3. Marquee tent
  4. Tour bus
  5. Guest waiting

Transfer to Collins Road Cave

The tour allows a maximum of 24 guests, matching the number of seats on the coach. The air conditioning provides comfort, especially on warm days. The guide speaks through the PA system, sharing information and asking questions to keep guests engaged.

The journey begins on a bitumen road before shifting to firm gravel, with the coach moving steadily over bumpy tracks surrounded by dense savannah vegetation. On arrival at Collins Road Cave, a firm crushed-gravel path winds through the bushland.

Guests may be seen listening closely to the guide’s final instructions, walking along the trail, chatting, and taking photos before entering the cave.

A white bus is parked on the left with its door open and a yellow step extended. The ground is covered in reddish-brown dirt. In the centre, there are scattered trees with sparse foliage. On the right, a dirt path leads into the distance, flanked by more trees and dry grass. A small shelter with a sign is visible near the path. The scene is set in a natural, wooded area.
A signboard under a corrugated metal shelter welcomes visitors to Undara Volcanic National Park. The sign features an illustration of the park's landscape and information about its unique geology. Surrounding the sign are dry grasses and scattered rocks. In the background, there are trees with sparse foliage, and a dirt path runs alongside the sign. The ground is covered with dry leaves and small stones.
A dirt path winds through a dry, grassy landscape with scattered trees. On the left, a covered information board stands, providing details about the area. The path is bordered by rocks and leads into the distance, flanked by more trees and large boulders on the right. The ground is a mix of reddish and brown earth, with dry leaves scattered around. The sky is overcast, casting a muted light over the scene.
A narrow, reddish-brown dirt path winds through a dry, grassy landscape. Sparse trees with green leaves are scattered on both sides. The ground is covered with dry grass and small shrubs. The path is bordered by small rocks, and the sky above is overcast.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Guide's voice
  2. Rustling leaves
  3. Footsteps on gravel
  4. Bird calls
  5. Engine hum
Smell

Smells

  1. Earthy scent
  2. Fresh air
  3. Dry grass
  4. Wood
  5. Savannah flora
Touch

Feel

  1. Warm air
  2. Bumpy ride
  3. Firm ground
  4. Gentle breeze
  5. Natural textures
Sight

Sight

  1. Savannah trees
  2. Gravel path
  3. Information board
  4. Wooden boardwalk
  5. Bushland

Access into Collins Road Cave

The pathway to Collins Road Cave shifts from crushed gravel to a wooden boardwalk that descends into a natural depression in the earth. The boardwalk is moderately steep, zigzagging downwards with handrails for support.

As the path continues, the vegetation changes from dry savannah to greener, denser growth, giving a more tropical feel. The air becomes cooler with each step, and visitors often pause to take photos or observe the surroundings.

The sound of birds and brush turkeys can be heard, adding to the calm atmosphere as the group moves deeper towards the cave entrance.

A wooden boardwalk with metal railings curves through a natural setting. On the left, dense vegetation with various trees and shrubs. On the right, more trees and undergrowth, with some rocks visible. The boardwalk is elevated slightly above the ground, providing a clear path through the greenery. The area appears to be a forest or nature reserve, with a mix of green and brown tones in the foliage.
A wooden boardwalk with metal railings splits into two paths, one veering left and the other right. The area is surrounded by dry, sparse vegetation and scattered trees with thin branches. The ground is covered with dry grass and some rocks. The trees have a mix of green and brown leaves, indicating a dry season. The boardwalk is elevated slightly above the ground, and the landscape is gently sloping.
A wooden boardwalk with metal railings winds through a forested area. On the left, large trees with twisted branches extend over the path, their bark textured and dark. The ground is covered with dry leaves and sparse undergrowth. On the right, more trees and dense green foliage create a lush environment. The boardwalk leads into the distance, surrounded by the natural landscape.
A wooden boardwalk with metal railings runs through a forested area. On both sides, there are trees with green foliage and some dry underbrush. The ground is covered with fallen leaves and dry grass. The path leads into a denser area of trees in the background. The sky is overcast, visible through the tree canopy.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. People chatting
  2. Leaves rustling
  3. Footsteps on wood
  4. Distant animal calls
  5. Wind through trees
Smell

Smells

  1. Fresh air
  2. Damp wood
  3. Leafy greens
  4. Earthy aroma
  5. Wildflowers
Touch

Feel

  1. Cool breeze
  2. Wooden texture
  3. Gentle descent
  4. Interaction with others
  5. Humidity increase
Sight

Sight

  1. Wooden boardwalk
  2. Dense foliage
  3. Twisting path
  4. Cave entrance
  5. People taking photos

Inside Collins Road Cave

Beyond a line of dense trees and bushes, the entrance to Collins Road Cave appears. A set of steps with an accessible stair lift leads down into the opening, where cool air rises from within. The sound of trickling water from a nearby spring can be heard.

Inside, a wooden boardwalk continues over the muddy floor, guiding visitors through the wide, dark cavern. The rocky walls echo with movement and conversation, and the air feels cool and damp with a musty scent. Some guests use torches to light their way, their beams revealing the cave’s depth and height.

The atmosphere is calm yet filled with quiet curiosity as visitors adjust to the darkness and unique sensory experience.

A cave interior with a rocky ceiling and walls displaying various shades of green and brown. In the foreground, a wooden staircase with metal railings descends into the cave. To the left, a fenced-off area with a sign is visible. The floor is covered with rocks and a pathway extends into the dark depths of the cave. The lighting is dim, highlighting the textures of the cave walls.
A cave interior with a wooden walkway leading towards a staircase on the left. The cave walls are rugged with streaks of green and brown. The ceiling is high and uneven. At the entrance, light filters through, revealing trees and rocks outside. The floor is dark and rocky, and there is a railing along the walkway for safety.
A wooden walkway leads to a staircase with metal railings ascending towards an opening surrounded by rocky terrain. The cave walls on either side are textured with layers of rock in various shades. At the top, trees and foliage are visible, allowing natural light to filter in. A bench is positioned near the base of the stairs. The floor is wooden, and the area is enclosed by railings.
A cave interior with a wooden walkway featuring metal railings on the right side. The cave walls and ceiling are rugged, with a mix of grey, brown, and purple hues. On the left, there is an informational sign with text and images. The ground is dark and uneven, with some scattered debris. The lighting is dim, highlighting the textures of the cave surfaces.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Trickling water
  2. Echoes
  3. Rustling leaves
  4. Distant voices
  5. Boardwalk creaks
Smell

Smells

  1. Damp earth
  2. Musty air
  3. Fresh foliage
  4. Wet stone
  5. Cool breeze
Touch

Feel

  1. Temperature drop
  2. Dampness
  3. Uneven ground
  4. Sense of awe
  5. Enclosed feeling
Sight

Sight

  1. Dark cave
  2. Ancient rocks
  3. Textured walls
  4. People taking photos
  5. Occasional shafts of light

Transfer to Stephensons Cave and Archway

The pathway to Stephensons Cave and Archway is a firm, crushed gravel trail winding through savannah-style vegetation. The path is lined with trees and rocks, providing a natural, rustic feel. The area has a clear, wide path suitable for walking.

Guests will likely be standing, listening to the guide for instructions, and taking photos. The atmosphere is calm and anticipatory, with a focus on nature and exploration. The air conditioning on the coach offers relief from the heat, and the guide's voice over the PA system encourages participation.

A dirt path curves through a dry, grassy landscape with scattered trees. On the right, a small shelter with a corrugated metal roof stands beside a tree, with a sign beneath it. The ground is a mix of reddish and brown hues, with patches of green. The background is filled with more trees and dry grass, creating a sparse, open environment.
A dirt path stretches into the distance, bordered by scattered rocks. On both sides, dry grass and sparse trees with green leaves are visible. The trees are thin and spread out across the landscape. The sky is overcast, creating a muted atmosphere. The path is central, leading the eye towards the horizon.
A dirt path forks into two directions in a natural setting. The ground is covered with reddish-brown soil, bordered by small rocks. Sparse trees with green foliage are scattered throughout the area, with dry grass and leaves covering the ground. The left path leads through a more open area, while the right path is slightly more enclosed by trees. The background is filled with more trees and vegetation, creating a sense of depth in the landscape.
A winding dirt path stretches through a dry, grassy landscape. Sparse trees with green leaves are scattered on both sides, with some trees appearing bare. Dark rocks line the edges of the path. The ground is covered with dry grass and fallen leaves. The scene is flat, with no visible hills or mountains in the background.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Guide's voice
  2. Footsteps on gravel
  3. Rustling leaves
  4. Bird calls
  5. Wind in trees
Smell

Smells

  1. Fresh earth
  2. Eucalyptus
  3. Dry grass
  4. Woodsy aroma
  5. Air conditioning (bus)
Touch

Feel

  1. Warm air
  2. Firm ground
  3. Gentle breeze
  4. Sense of anticipation
  5. Bumpy ride
Sight

Sight

  1. Gravel path
  2. Savannah trees
  3. Bushland
  4. Wooden boardwalk
  5. Natural rocks

Access into Stephensons Cave and Archway

The pathway to Stephensons Cave and Archway shifts from crushed gravel to a wooden boardwalk that descends into a deep, natural depression. The boardwalk includes a series of steps and switchbacks, guiding visitors through changing vegetation from dry savannah to dense, green forest.

The air becomes noticeably cooler, and the sounds of birds, brush turkeys, and insects fill the area. Wooden walkways extend in different directions, some flat and others stepped to navigate roots and rocks.

The surroundings feel calm and enclosed, creating a clear contrast to the open grasslands above. Visitors often pause to observe the scenery and listen to the increasing sounds of wildlife.

Wooden stairs in a natural setting with two paths diverging. On the left, the stairs descend into dense greenery with a mix of green and brown foliage. On the right, the stairs ascend, bordered by dark, rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. The handrails are metal, and the area is surrounded by trees and shrubs, creating a lush, forested environment.
A rocky cave interior with a rough, textured wall on the left, covered in patches of moss and lichen. The ground is scattered with large, angular rocks and debris. On the right, a wooden staircase with metal railings ascends towards an opening surrounded by dense greenery and trees. The ceiling of the cave is uneven and jagged, with some overhanging sections. The floor is earthy and uneven, blending into the natural surroundings.
A rocky cave entrance with a wooden walkway on the left, featuring metal railings. The ground is covered with scattered rocks and soil. In the centre, a cluster of large boulders is surrounded by trees with dense foliage. The cave walls are rugged and composed of layered rock formations. Sunlight filters through the trees, illuminating the scene with a natural light.
A rocky cave entrance with a metal staircase leading upwards. The foreground features large, dark boulders scattered around. In the background, lush green vegetation and tree roots extend across the scene, with sunlight filtering through the foliage. The cave walls are rugged and covered with patches of greenery. The staircase has railings on both sides, guiding the way through the natural landscape.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Birds chirping
  2. Leaves rustling
  3. Footsteps on wood
  4. Animal calls
  5. Wind through trees
Smell

Smells

  1. Earthy forest
  2. Fresh leaves
  3. Damp wood
  4. Cool air
  5. Mossy rocks
Touch

Feel

  1. Cool breeze
  2. Wooden steps
  3. Moist air
  4. Dense foliage
  5. Uneven ground
Sight

Sight

  1. Lush greenery
  2. Wooden boardwalk
  3. Rock formations
  4. Cave entrance
  5. Sunlight filtering

Inside Stephensons Cave and Archway

Inside Stephensons Cave and Archway, visitors encounter striking volcanic rock formations shaped over thousands of years. A long staircase descends towards the entrance, where the air becomes cooler and the light fades. Large fig trees frame the archway, their roots stretching across the lava tube floor and threading through cracks in the rock.

The path continues along a wooden walkway. After a big wet season in North Queensland, clear water can be seen covering the cave floor. Guests are often encouraged to remove their shoes and walk barefoot along the flooded boardwalk, feeling the cool water beneath them.

The atmosphere is filled with echoes, gentle splashes, and the occasional instructions from the tour guide. Visitors pause to take photographs, look up at the rugged ceilings, and observe the unique ecology surrounding them, creating a sense of quiet awe and discovery.

A rocky cave with a wooden walkway and metal railings leading downwards. The cave walls are rugged and textured, with some greenery hanging from above. In the background, the cave opens up to a lush forest with dense trees and foliage. The ground is covered with rocks and patches of moss. The ceiling of the cave is uneven and natural, with some vines hanging down.
A dark cave interior with a rocky ceiling and walls. In the centre, a bright opening reveals the outside, with rocks and vegetation visible. Water covers the cave floor, reflecting the light from the entrance. A metal handrail runs along a submerged path leading towards the exit. A person with a light is visible near the entrance, adding a sense of scale to the scene.
A natural cave with a rocky interior and a large opening. On the left, dense vegetation with trees and vines covers mossy rocks. In the centre, the cave's ceiling is rugged and uneven. On the right, a wooden walkway with metal railings leads into the cave, with stairs ascending towards the opening. The background shows more greenery and trees visible through the cave's entrance. The ground is covered with fallen leaves and rocks.
A wooden walkway with railings leads through a rocky cave area. On the left, a large informational sign titled "The Archway" displays maps and images. The cave wall is rugged and textured. To the right, there are scattered rocks and lush green trees, with sunlight filtering through the foliage. The path ascends with steps further into the cave, surrounded by natural rock formations and vegetation.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Echoing voices
  2. Water lapping
  3. Footsteps on wood
  4. Tour guide commentary
  5. Guest asking questions
Smell

Smells

  1. Moist air
  2. Damp earth
  3. Mulch and decaying leaves
  4. Faint tree sap
  5. Subtle body odors
Touch

Feel

  1. Cool, humid breeze
  2. Sense of awe
  3. Bare feet on soaked
  4. Rough rock
  5. Gentle chill on skin
Sight

Sight

  1. Volcanic archway
  2. Fig tree roots
  3. Flooded walkway
  4. Dark cave
  5. Spectacular rock formations
Two hands shaking Thankyou graphic

Thank You

For all suggestions to improve our Visual Stories contact info@cerge.app and join the Facebook community to get involved /cergecommunity.