Background

Fountain Cavern National Park: Anguilla's Ancient Sanctuary

Explore ancient petroglyphs and sacred spaces at Anguilla's Fountain Cavern National Park, a unique pre-Columbian archaeological site.

2.8

Fountain Cavern National Park on Anguilla's northeastern coast is a significant pre-Columbian archaeological site. It features an underground cavern with ancient petroglyphs, a freshwater pool, and a stalagmite carved into the likeness of Jocahu, the Taino supreme deity, offering a glimpse into the island's indigenous past.

A brief summary to Fountain Cavern National Park

  • Shoal Bay, 2640, AI

Local tips

  • Arrange a guided tour in advance through the Anguilla National Trust to access the cave.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rugged terrain comfortably.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited within the park.
  • Visit early in the morning for a cooler experience and to avoid crowds.
  • Combine your visit to Fountain Cavern with explorations of nearby beaches and local cuisine for a memorable Anguilla experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From North Hill, drive east on the main road (Valley Road) for about 2.5 miles until the junction with Shoal Bay Road. Turn left onto Shoal Bay Road and drive for approximately 1 mile. Look for signs for Fountain Cavern National Park. Parking is available near the entrance off Shoal Bay Road. There are no fees for parking.

  • Public Transportation

    From North Hill Village, take a local bus heading towards Shoal Bay. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turn for Shoal Bay Road. From there, it's about a 0.5-mile walk to the entrance of Fountain Cavern National Park. Confirm the fare with the driver, as prices may vary. A typical short trip fare is around $3 USD.

Unlock the Best of Fountain Cavern National Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Fountain Cavern National Park

Fountain Cavern National Park, located near Shoal Bay in northeastern Anguilla, is a window into the island's rich Amerindian heritage. Designated as a national park in 1985, the site protects Fountain Cavern, the most important pre-Columbian ceremonial location in the Eastern Caribbean. The cavern descends approximately 50 feet below ground, revealing a two-chambered limestone cave. A freshwater pool reflects light filtering through the entrance, once vital to the indigenous Amerindians. The walls display over 33 ancient petroglyphs and rock carvings, offering insights into the beliefs and artistic skills of Anguilla's early inhabitants. The oldest known and longest-used ceremonial cave site in the entire Caribbean, archeological evidence suggests that the site was used for ritual purposes from around A.D. 400 to at least A.D. 1200. The centerpiece is a 14-foot stalagmite, carved to represent Jocahu (also known as Yucahú), the supreme deity of the Taino people, also known as the “Lord of the Yuca”, a spirit of fertility. This statue was a focal point for indigenous ceremonies, highlighting the cavern's sacred importance. Guided tours provide insights into the site's history, cultural significance, and geological formations. The Anguilla Amerindian Interpretation Centre enhances the experience, offering a deeper understanding of the Taino people and their way of life.

Popular Experiences near Fountain Cavern National Park

Popular Hotels near Fountain Cavern National Park

Select Currency