Elephant Cave

Depth: 0-9m | Currents: None | Suitable For All Levels

Hidden beneath the surface, Elephant Cave is one of Crete’s most unique and awe-inspiring dive sites. Discovered in 1999 by a spearfisher and excavated in 2000, this underwater cavern is not only visually stunning, but also of major paleontological importance.

The cave takes its name from the fossilized remains of a previously unknown species of elephant, Elephas chaniensis, discovered inside. These ancient creatures, estimated to be 50,000 to 60,000 years old, stood three metres tall with thick bones and husky bodies—very different from modern elephants. Fossils of deer were also found, including dwarf deer no taller than 30 cm. While many of the fossils were recovered and preserved by the University of Athens, two leg bones and two molar teeth from the elephants still remain in the cave today, adding to its mystique.