How strange it seems, exploring this world full of mysterious shades, in the absence of light and wind, the discovery of life. Caverns and caves are refuges charged with enormous cultural and historical wealth that have become favourite places for all those who like to unveil the hidden and ignored.

The study of caves and caverns is called speleology, a discipline which includes the study of the flora and fauna found in its interior. It is a "world without light", of colourless plants and animals that have adapted to perpetual dimness, and developed a series of senses and strategies that allow them to survive in such a weird and hostile environment.

But the caverns also have served as refuges for the first human groups that came to our continent. There they found together with shelter a canvas in which to paint the stone walls scenes of their every day life; a life full of dangers, discoveries, efforts and sacrifices.

In the Andean countries, many caverns exist that are perfect for providing unforgettable days of adventure and emotion to those that search that type of thrills. In Bolivia, for example, in the Torotoro area (department of Potosi), there is to be found the Cave of Humajalanta, well known for its fascinating structures. In Tacna, Peru you can find the Cave of Toquepala, whose walls were covered by invaluable cave paintings by the first inhabitants of the region more than 10,000 years ago.

This magic darkness continues in the mountains and forests of the old lands of the Inca Empire. A great example is the grotto of Rumichaca that holds the venerated image of the Virgin Maria, sculpted by the artist Daniel Reyes It is in the small chapel found inside the cave, in the county of Carchi, Ecuador.

Without doubt, the Andes' generous geography won't fail you and will allow you to carry out numerous explorations in the "world without light" that not only stores history, but also mysteries and legends capable of satisfying the desires of any one looking for the adventure of folk knowledge.