The chasm formed in Jurassic limestone on the Causses du Quercy plateau through long-term dissolution and collapse; the sequence of events includes limestone deposition in a shallow sea, fracturing, progressive hollowing by groundwater and the development of speleothems (stalactites, stalagmites) and large subterranean galleries over millions of years. The main cavity opens as a round pit some 33–35 m across and historically 75–103 m deep to the explored passages below, leading to the Grand Dome — a cathedral-scale chamber with an underground river and pools.

Although known locally, the Gouffre was scientifically explored and popularised by cave pioneer Édouard-Alfred Martel in 1889; Martel’s expeditions revealed the chasm’s river galleries and caverns and initiated development that led to public access and the site’s opening to visitors at the end of the 19th century.

Visitors descend by lift or stair to the cave entrance level, follow a walking route and take a guided or boat segment along the underground river that leads into the Grand Dome and associated galleries; audio guides and multilingual information are available and tours take roughly 1–1.5 hours depending on pacing and season.