Prohodna Cave is nestled in the heart of Bulgaria, in a small town called Karlukovo. This incredible natural formation is tucked beneath a main road and offers a truly magical experience for visitors.
Since we’ve been in Bulgaria for six weeks now, we’ve had the absolute pleasure of exploring this cave every second day to get in as much rock climbing as possible.
Where We Stayed
We’ve been based in Teteven, about a 45-minute drive from Karlukovo and 1.5 hours from Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. Outdoor climbing around Sofia and Teteven is pretty limited—especially when you need access suitable for a toddler—so discovering Prohodna felt like striking gold.
Whether you’re a climbing enthusiast or just looking for a unique natural wonder, Prohodna Cave is a must-visit.
A Journey to Remember
The 45-minute drive through the mountains from Teteven to Karlukovo is peaceful and scenic. Hiring a car from Sofia was one of the best decisions we made—it gave us the flexibility to travel at our own pace and follow our toddler’s routine (nap time always wins!).
🚗 Planning a trip? Check out our car rental experience in Bulgaria here.
Getting there early is key. We usually arrive by 8 am and often have the entire cave to ourselves. Tour buses typically start arriving around 10 am, and weekends can be hectic, so early mornings are your best bet to enjoy the serenity.
A Magical First Impression
The first time we walked into Prohodna, we were genuinely awestruck. The sheer size of the cave, its peaceful atmosphere, and the iconic “God’s Eyes”—two natural holes in the ceiling—create a spiritual and powerful presence.
The cave is easy to access, with a large parking lot and a short, flat walk from the car park to the entrance. It’s free to enter, and closer to lunchtime, local stalls sometimes pop up near the entrance with snacks and souvenirs.
If you’re up for more adventure, there’s a hiking trail that continues through the back of the cave.
Rock Climbing at Prohodna
As climbers, this spot was a dream. Prohodna is home to mainly sport climbing routes, with a few traditional options. Over our many visits, we’ve only bumped into other climbers a couple of times—it’s quiet, spacious, and feels like a private crag most days.
That said, climb with caution. Some routes are dirty, with loose rock and the occasional run-out bolt.
Our favourite climbs are near the end of the cave on the left-hand side: a 7a, 7b, and 7b+ set of routes all right next to each other. Most climbs here are in the 7s, 8s, and 9s, with only a handful in the 6s.
For more detailed route information, we recommend the Climbing Bulgaria website, as info on The Crag is limited.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Arrive Early: Aim for 8 am or earlier to enjoy the cave before tour groups arrive.
- What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes. Bring a jumper for cooler mornings. Long pants/sleeves if you’re bug-averse.
- Bring a Camera: The light streaming through the “God’s Eyes” makes for breathtaking photos.
- Parking Tip: Don’t trust Google Maps to get you to the entrance. Stay on the main road and watch for the large parking area.
Exploring Beyond the Cave
Karlukovo is a quiet, local town with limited attractions, so we didn’t spend much time there. The true star of the show is Prohodna Cave itself—and honestly, that’s more than enough.
Final Thoughts
Prohodna Cave is easily one of the most beautiful and unique places we’ve visited. From its jaw-dropping natural architecture to the peaceful atmosphere and world-class climbing, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you’re chasing a spiritual moment, a new climbing project, or just a breathtaking stop on your road trip—add this one to your list.
PS: For real-time updates, follow us on Instagram @the.froth.family and check out our Teteven highlight for more glimpses of Prohodna Cave!
Til next time,
R
