Grotte du Macchabée, Natural cave in Akbil, Algeria.
The Macchabee Cave is a natural cave in the Akbil mountains with multiple underground passages and natural rock formations. The cave sits at about 1070 meters elevation and contains an interconnected system of corridors that wind through the mountain.
The cave was first officially documented and cataloged by authorities in 1923 during colonial times. Since then, researchers have conducted several expeditions to study its structure and contents.
The name references a historical figure whose story remains alive in local memory. People in the region share accounts about the person said to rest here, and these stories form part of the place's identity.
The entrance requires climbing a steep rock face, so sturdy footwear and some climbing ability are needed. Inside, the passages are narrow and winding, so bring a flashlight and wear appropriate clothing for moving through tight spaces.
Inside the cave rests a human body that has been naturally preserved for several centuries. The specific conditions within the cave, including temperature and air circulation, have allowed this remarkable preservation to occur.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
