Jaskinia Raptawicka

Jaskinia Raptawicka is an option for hikers looking for a thrill, but not necessarily wanting to crawl in mud (as in Mylna Cave). It is a vertical, spacious cave and… rather noisy, because entering it requires climbing a steel ladder.

Located high in Raptawicka Turnia, it offers not only underground sensations but also one of the more interesting views of the western part of Kościeliska Valley.

Approach: chains and a ladder

The approach to the cave (black trail branching off the main path in Kościeliska Valley) is short, but very intense.

1. The wall: The path climbs steeply up, in places over bare rock secured with chains.
2. The ladder: The final part of the approach is a vertical 4-metre steel ladder leading straight into the cave entrance. This is the moment that tests your tolerance for exposure - there is quite a lot of air beneath your feet.

Inside: the ballroom of the Tatras

After climbing the ladder we enter the Main Chamber. Its size is very impressive - it is 10-15 metres high and lit by daylight entering through two openings (the entrance and an upper opening). You can walk upright here.

• For explorers: Several side dead-end passages lead off from the main chamber. They are low and completely dark - a torch is needed if you want to look into them.
• For visitors: The main chamber is dry and bright, ideal for a rest.

Practical information

• Safety on the ladder: On the ladder the rule is: one person on the ladder at a time. Do not go up until the person before you has completely stepped off. In season, queues form here.
• Slippery conditions: Both the chains on the approach and the polished rocks inside the cave can be treacherous, especially after rain.
• Cave combo: Jaskinia Raptawicka lies right next to the exit of Jaskinia Mylna and Obłazkowa Cave. It is worth visiting them “in one go”, creating the so-called Pawlikowski System (Mylna first, then the approach to Raptawicka).