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Fontein Cave: Aruba's Ancient Canvas

Discover ancient art and natural wonders at Fontein Cave, Aruba: A journey into the island's indigenous past and geological marvels within Arikok National Park.

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Explore Fontein Cave in Arikok National Park, Aruba, and discover ancient Arawak Indian drawings etched on its walls, offering a glimpse into the island's rich history and geological wonders. The cave features stalactites, stalagmites, and a freshwater pond where you can experience a fish pedicure.

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 comfortable shoes with good traction as the cave floor can be uneven and slippery.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to better see the cave drawings and formations in the darker areas.
  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the cave's history and the significance of the Arawak Indian drawings.
  • Combine your visit to Fontein Cave with other attractions in Arikok National Park, such as the Quadirikiri Cave and Boca Prins.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Fontein Cave is located within Arikok National Park. From Oranjestad, drive northeast towards the park entrance. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Fontein Cave. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the park's terrain. The entrance fee to Arikok National Park is $15 per adult. Children under 17 enter free.

  • Tour

    Several tour operators offer guided tours to Arikok National Park, including Fontein Cave. These tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a guided exploration of the cave and other park attractions. Tour prices vary depending on the operator and the specific itinerary.

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Discover more about Fontein Cave

Fontein Cave, nestled within Aruba's Arikok National Park, is a captivating natural wonder that offers a unique blend of geological beauty and historical significance. The cave extends approximately 95 meters into the limestone hills and is adorned with ancient drawings and etchings created by the Amerindian Caquetio people around 4000 years ago. These drawings, rendered in brownish-red ochre, depict abstract patterns, geometric designs, and human-like figures, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of Aruba's earliest inhabitants. The cave's interior features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water. Algae growth on the walls creates a gradient wallpaper effect, adding to the cave's otherworldly atmosphere. The cave is also home to bats, crabs, and other creatures that thrive in the dark, humid environment. Fontein Cave is not only a geological marvel but also a historical treasure. It is believed that the cave served as a sacred site for the Caquetio people, used for ceremonies, storytelling, and recording significant events. The cave's entrance hall, which is open to visitors, reaches a height of 4 meters and extends to a depth of 50 meters. Park rangers are often available to provide guided tours, sharing insights into the cave's history, the meanings of the rock drawings, and the formation of the stalactites and stalagmites. Just a short walk from the cave, you'll find Aruba's only natural freshwater pond, known for its fish pedicure experience. Visitors can dip their feet in the pond and let the fish nibble away dead skin, a unique and refreshing treat.

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