A gaping maw in the earth beckons. This is the Abisso Chaka Paka. Before you stands the entrance to a subterranean world a hidden jewel in the Karst landscape near Trieste.
The Abisso Chaka Paka is more than just a hole in the ground. It’s a testament to the power of nature. It’s a vertical shaft plunging 85 meters into the earth. Its total length is only 34 meters but its depth is impressive. Discovered in 1991 by R Martincich and G Zanini the Abisso Chaka Paka initially revealed a 23-meter drop. Further exploration and excavation in 2006 uncovered new passages. This added significantly to the cave’s overall depth.
Imagine descending into the darkness. The initial pozzo or well is quite eroded. It lacks the beautiful formations found in some other caves. Three meters from the bottom a window opens to a parallel shaft of four meters. A short tunnel leads to another 13-meter drop. Smaller branches extend but they don’t go far. Ten meters from the start of a 44-meter drop another window appears. It opens into an eight-meter-long passage. From here two more shafts plunge downwards one 13 meters and the other 15 meters deep. The final shaft is narrow and impassable. It ends in a pile of rubble.
The Abisso Chaka Paka’s interior is a maze of shafts. It offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for experienced cavers. The cave’s name is striking. It sounds exotic and mysterious adding to its allure. Its official cadastral number is 4904. It also has a local cadastral number 5634VG.
Reaching the Abisso Chaka Paka requires a short trek. You’ll follow the Sgonico Gabrovizza road. After the second high-voltage line look southeast. Pass the first pylon. Climb over five dry stone walls. Turn right at a 90-degree angle. Walk about 55 meters. The entrance lies near a slight depression in the ground. It is about 125 meters west-northwest of the pylon.
The Abisso Chaka Paka is a treasure waiting to be discovered. It’s a reminder of the hidden wonders that lie beneath our feet. Its exploration offers a thrilling adventure. This deep cave is a testament to the beauty and mystery of the natural world. It is a hidden gem of the Karst region. Remember this unique experience as you continue your journey through Trieste.