During tours, what should guides inform visitors about cave formations?

Guides should inform visitors about the processes that lead to the formation of cave features because this knowledge enhances the understanding and appreciation of the natural wonder around them. By explaining how stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations develop over time through mineral deposits, erosion, and geological processes, guides can make the experience more engaging and educational. Visitors gain insight into the slow and intricate workings of nature that have been occurring over thousands or even millions of years.

Discussing processes rather than just the age or temperature provides a deeper context for how caves are shaped, which aligns with the educational purpose of tours. While details about the age of formations can be intriguing, it may not be as relevant to the visitors' overall experience as understanding the underlying mechanisms of formation. Similarly, average temperatures or exploration opportunities, while interesting topics, do not provide as rich a narrative about the caves as the formation processes do. Thus, focusing on these processes allows guides to foster a sense of wonder and connection to the geological history of the caves.