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Fontein Cave: Aruba's Ancient Canvas

Discover ancient petroglyphs and stunning rock formations at Fontein Cave, a natural and historical treasure within Aruba's Arikok National Park.

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Fontein Cave, nestled within Arikok National Park, unveils a captivating blend of natural beauty and ancient history. Explore the cave's depths to discover intriguing rock formations and well-preserved Arawak Indian drawings, offering a glimpse into Aruba's cultural past.

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 sturdy shoes with good traction as the cave floor can be uneven and slippery.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to fully appreciate the petroglyphs and navigate the darker areas.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Ask the park rangers at the entrance for a guided tour to learn more about the cave's history and geology.
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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. Enter the park through either the San Fuego or Vader Piet entrance. San Fuego is the easier entrance to reach and is where the visitor center is located. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the park's terrain. Pay the park entrance fee of $11 USD per adult at the visitor center. Children 17 and under are free. Follow the signs within the park to Fontein Cave.

  • Taxi

    From the hotel zone, a taxi to Arikok National Park will take approximately 40 minutes. Negotiate a fare with the driver beforehand. Expect to pay around $30 - $40 USD for a one-way trip. Enter the park through either the San Fuego or Vader Piet entrance. Pay the park entrance fee of $11 USD per adult at the visitor center. Children 17 and under are free. From the visitor center, it is a short walk or taxi ride to Fontein Cave.

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Discover more about Fontein Cave

Fontein Cave, located within Arikok National Park, offers a unique journey into Aruba's geological and cultural history. This natural attraction is renowned for its impressive limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites shaped over thousands of years, and ancient Arawak Indian petroglyphs. These drawings, etched into the cave walls by the island's early inhabitants, provide insights into their lives, beliefs, and rituals. As you explore the cave, you'll encounter a relatively accessible path that winds through the main chamber. Keep an eye out for the various forms of life that call the cave home, including bats, algae, and the occasional crab. The algae contribute to the colorful gradients on the cave walls, while the bats play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Park rangers are often available to provide guided tours, sharing information about the cave's history, the significance of the rock drawings, and the formation of the stalactites and stalagmites. Fontein Cave provides a refreshing escape from the Aruban heat, with its cool interior and otherworldly atmosphere. The cave's natural acoustics have even led to occasional musical performances and cultural events being held within its chambers. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight to navigate the uneven surfaces and darker sections of the cave. Combining a visit to Fontein Cave with other attractions within Arikok National Park, such as the nearby freshwater pond known for its 'fish pedicures', makes for a memorable Aruban adventure.

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