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Fontein Cave: Ancient Art and Natural Wonders

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Discover ancient Arawak art, stunning rock formations, and unique fish pedicures at Fontein Cave in Aruba's Arikok National Park.

Explore Fontein Cave in Arikok National Park, Aruba, to discover ancient Arawak Indian drawings, stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and a unique freshwater pond with fish pedicures. A must-see for history and nature enthusiasts!

A brief summary to Fontein Cave

  • Monday 8 am-3:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-3:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-3:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-3:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-3:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-3:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, as the cave can be hot and humid.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to better see the rock drawings and formations, although some light is provided.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience of the cave.
  • Combine your visit with a hike in Arikok National Park to explore more of Aruba's natural beauty.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to get a fish pedicure in the freshwater pond outside the cave.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the hotel zone in Noord, drive south towards Arikok National Park. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. Follow the main road and signs to the park's entrance. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Fontein Cave. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the park's rugged terrain. Park entrance fee is $11 USD per adult. Children 17 and under are free. Parking is available near the cave.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus towards San Nicolas or Oranjestad from the hotel zone. Inform the driver you wish to go to Arikok National Park. The bus ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes. From the park entrance, it is a 10-minute walk to Fontein Cave. A roundtrip bus card costs $5 USD, and a day pass is $10 USD. Park entrance fee is $11 USD per adult. Children 17 and under are free.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from the hotel zone to Arikok National Park. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. Taxi fares in Aruba are government-regulated. Expect to pay around $35 - $40 USD for a one-way trip. Park entrance fee is $11 USD per adult. Children 17 and under are free. From the park entrance, it is a 10-minute walk to Fontein Cave.

Discover more about Fontein Cave

Fontein Cave, nestled within Aruba's Arikok National Park, offers a captivating journey through time and nature. This 95-meter-long cave is adorned with ancient Arawak Indian rock drawings, providing a glimpse into the island's pre-Columbian history. These brownish-red paintings, etched by Amerindians, decorate the cave's ceilings and walls, showcasing geometric motifs and handprints. Some believe the drawings were created under the influence of psychedelics, while others suggest the cave served as a place of worship, ritual, or refuge. As you venture deeper, you'll be mesmerized by the cave's stunning stalactites and stalagmites, formed over centuries by the erosion of coral limestone. Algae paint the walls in vibrant hues of yellow and green, creating a gradient wallpaper effect. Keep an eye out for the cave's residents, including bats and the occasional crab. Just outside the cave, discover Aruba's only natural freshwater pond, home to small fish that offer a unique "fish pedicure" experience. Dip your feet in the cool water and let the fish gently nibble away dead skin. Fontein Cave is a popular destination, so be prepared for warm, humid conditions and possible crowds. Park rangers are often available to provide guided tours and share insights into the cave's history and geology.

Explore the best of what Fontein Cave has to offer

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