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Quadirikiri Cave: A Glimpse into Aruba's Natural and Cultural History

Discover Aruba's hidden gem: Quadirikiri Cave in Arikok National Park, where sunlight illuminates ancient mysteries and natural beauty.

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Explore the Quadirikiri Cave in Arikok National Park, Aruba, featuring two large chambers illuminated by sunlight streaming through openings in the ceiling, harmless bats, and ancient Arawak petroglyphs. This 492-foot-long cave offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

A brief summary to Quadirikiri Cave

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain inside the cave.
  • Bring a flashlight to better view the petroglyphs in the dimly lit areas, although flashlights may not be allowed to avoid disturbing the bats.
  • Respect the natural environment; avoid touching or disturbing rock formations or wildlife.
  • Listen to park rangers for safety information and historical insights about the cave.
  • Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the hotel zone in Noord, drive south towards Arikok National Park. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the park's terrain, though it's not essential to reach Quadirikiri Cave if you don't plan on visiting the Natural Pool. Follow the signs within the park to Quadirikiri Cave. Park in the designated lot, and a staircase will lead you to the cave entrance. The entrance fee to Arikok National Park is $22 USD for adults; children 17 and under are free.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from the hotel zone to Arikok National Park. Negotiate a fare with the driver to include the return trip, as finding a taxi within the park for the return may be challenging. The park entrance fee is $22 USD per adult. From the park entrance, follow signs to Quadirikiri Cave. The taxi fare from the hotel zone to Arikok National Park can range from $30 to $40 each way.

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take the Arubus N.V. bus towards Maria Maai. The bus ride takes approximately 21 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the entrance of Arikok National Park. The bus fare is approximately $3 USD. Upon entering the park, follow the signs to Quadirikiri Cave. The entrance fee to Arikok National Park is $22 USD for adults.

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Discover more about Quadirikiri Cave

Quadirikiri Cave, nestled within Aruba's Arikok National Park, offers a captivating journey into the island's geological and cultural past. This natural limestone cave, formed by weathering, stretches approximately 492 feet and is characterized by two large, dome-shaped chambers. What makes Quadirikiri truly special are the openings in its ceiling, which allow sunlight to stream in, creating a mystical atmosphere and perfect photo opportunities. As you venture deeper, be prepared to share the space with hundreds of harmless bats that call the cave home. These nocturnal creatures add to the cave's unique ecosystem. Keep an eye out for ancient Arawak Indian petroglyphs adorning the walls, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of Aruba's early inhabitants. These carvings, believed to be over 1,000 years old, depict animals, symbols, and human figures. Local folklore adds another layer of intrigue to Quadirikiri Cave. One popular tale tells of an Indian chief's daughter who fell in love with someone her father disapproved of. Imprisoned in the cave, she and her lover, confined nearby, met secretly within its depths. Tragically, they died there, their spirits ascending to heaven through the holes in the cave's ceiling, which is why the cave has two holes through which sunlight passes through to illuminate the chamber.

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