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Wieliczka Miners Route | Explore the hidden side of the Salt Mine

Step into the boots of a real salt miner and explore Wieliczka’s hidden depths the way workers once did. Unlike the Tourist Route, this hands-on journey takes you deeper into the mine’s lesser-known tunnels, where you’ll handle mining equipment, solve tasks, and uncover stories of the miners’ daily lives. It’s an active, immersive experience perfect for curious explorers and adventure-seekers.

Miners’ Route | Quick overview

  • Starting point: Regis Shaft
  • Duration: 3–4 hours
  • Distance covered: 2.5 km of historic mining tunnels and chambers
  • Top highlights: Original mining equipment, narrow passageways, underground workstations, hands-on mining tasks, real stories of Polish miners
  • Accessibility: A physically demanding, adventure-style experience, perfect for thrill-seekers and curious explorers
  • Minimum age: 10 years
  • How to reach:
    • Bus 304 from Kraków Główny
    • Bus 210 from Kraków Rondo Mogilskie Get off at Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia stop, just a short walk from the Regis Shaft

The Miners' Route map

Map of Miners' Route showing Regis Shaft, salt grinding, and transportation sites.

What awaits on the Miners’ Route

Miner in Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland
Underground passage in Wieliczka salt mines with wooden supports and rock formations.
Hands holding large salt crystals.
Wooden pulley system in Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland, part of a 2-day guided tour.
Horses in Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland, pulling wooden machinery underground.
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Suit up like a real miner

Put on protective overalls, a helmet, and a headlamp, stepping into the role of an explorer heading into the heart of the mine.

Descend through narrow shafts

Climb down ladders and follow tight passageways once used exclusively by miners, deep below the tourist paths.

Hands-on mining challenges

Drill into rock salt, measure methane levels, search for hidden resources, and learn survival techniques, just like the miners did.

Discover authentic workstations

Visit old chambers filled with original tools, wooden reinforcements, and machinery that powered centuries of salt extraction.

Uncover legends of the miners’ world

Hear fascinating stories, secrets, and superstitions that shaped daily life underground, from heroic deeds to ancient beliefs.

Visitor information for the Miners’ Route

  • Duration: Around 3–4 hours, including tasks and short briefing stops.
  • Distance & physical effort: Covers 2.5 km with ladders, tight passages, and uneven terrain. A good level of fitness is required.
  • Depth underground: You’ll explore multiple mining levels — up to 101 meters below ground, before returning by elevator.
  • Temperature: A consistent 14–17°C. Wear warm, comfortable clothing and sturdy, closed shoes.
  • Adventure requirements: This experience includes physical challenges and teamwork activities. Not suitable for claustrophobic visitors.
  • Age & restrictions: Minimum age: 10 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Strollers and baby carriers are not permitted.
  • Accessibility: This route is not accessible for wheelchairs, mobility aids, or guests with limited mobility.
  • Safety gear: Helmets and protective overalls are provided and must be worn throughout the tour.
  • Toilets: Restroom access is limited; use the facilities before starting.
  • Photography: Limited opportunities due to ladders and equipment use, follow guide instructions in restricted areas.
  • Language: Tours are available in multiple languages; advance booking recommended.

Frequently asked questions about the Miners' Route

How deep does the Miners' Route go?

The Miners' Route takes visitors to the 3rd and 4th levels of the mine, which are between 64 and 135 meters (210 to 443 feet) underground. This provides a more in-depth look at the mine’s structure and history.

Is this route suitable for children?

While the Miners' Route can be engaging for older children, it may not be suitable for very young children due to the physically demanding aspects, such as climbing stairs, using mining tools, and the overall length of the tour. This route requires the child to be above 10 years of age.

Do I need to book the Miners' Route in advance?

Yes, it is recommended to book tickets at least 1 to 2 weeks in advance for the Miners' Route, as it’s a specialized experience with limited availability. This ensures you secure a spot for the tour.

Is there a guide on this Route?

Yes, the Miners' Route is a guided tour. A professional guide will lead the group, sharing detailed information about the mine's history, mining techniques, and the life of miners. You’ll also get a chance to participate in activities like using mining tools and exploring hidden chambers.

Can I visit the route without prior experience or knowledge?

Absolutely! The Miners' Route is designed for beginners and those without prior mining experience. Your guide will explain everything you need to know, and you’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment.

Is the Miners' Route wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the Miners' Route is not wheelchair accessible due to the steep stairs, narrow paths, and physical nature of the tour.

What makes the Miners' Route different from the Tourist Route?

The Miners' Route offers a more hands-on and interactive experience compared to the Tourist Route. It takes visitors to deeper levels of the mine, with a focus on the mining process, while the Tourist Route is a more general exploration of the mine’s history and attractions, such as St. Kinga’s Chapel.

Can I take photos during my tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the Miners' Route tour. However, it’s important to respect the guide’s instructions and avoid using flash in certain areas to protect the mine’s delicate features.

What should I know before booking?

The Miners' Route is not suitable for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues as you need to be prepared to spend around 3 hours underground.