Fontein Cave: A Window to Aruba's Past

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

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Fontein Cave

Explore Fontein Cave in Arikok National Park, Aruba, to discover ancient Arawak Indian drawings and unique geological formations. This cave offers a glimpse into the island's history and natural beauty, with stalactites, stalagmites, and a freshwater pond nearby.

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 and bring a flashlight to navigate the uneven surfaces and darker areas of the cave.
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of the cooler temperatures.
Ask the park rangers for a guided tour to learn more about the Arawak drawings and the cave's history.
Combine your visit with other attractions in Arikok National Park, such as the Quadirikiri Cave and Boca Prins.
Respect the cave's delicate ecosystem and cultural heritage by not touching the rock drawings or formations.

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Quadirikiri 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. Enter the park through either the San Fuego or Vader Piet entrance. Follow the signs to Fontein Cave within the park. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the park's terrain, though it's not required if you only plan to visit Fontein Cave. Park entrance fee is $22 USD for adults.
Public Transport

Take the Arubus route L6 from Oranjestad to Maria Maai. From Maria Maai, it is approximately 30 minutes walking to the entrance of Arikok National Park. Note that the Arubus does not directly enter the park. From the park entrance, it is a 10-minute walk to Fontein Cave. The bus fare is approximately $3 USD. Park entrance fee is $22 USD for adults.
Taxi

Take a taxi from the hotel zone or Oranjestad to Arikok National Park. The taxi ride from the hotel zone will take approximately 40 minutes. Request to be dropped off at the Arikok National Park visitor center or the Fontein Cave entrance. The estimated taxi fare from the hotel zone to the park entrance is $30 - $40 USD. Park entrance fee is $22 USD for adults.

Discover more about Fontein Cave

Fontein Cave, nestled within Aruba's Arikok National Park, offers a captivating journey into the island's geological and cultural history. This natural attraction is renowned for its ancient Arawak Indian drawings, adorning the cave's ceilings and walls, providing a tangible link to Aruba's indigenous past. Formed by the erosion of coral limestone over thousands of years, the cave features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, shaped by the slow drip of mineral-rich water. These formations create an otherworldly atmosphere as you venture deeper into the cave's passages. The brownish-red paintings, etched by the Caquetios, offer insights into the lives, beliefs, and rituals of Aruba's early inhabitants. Some believe the caves served as places of worship and ceremonial sites. Just a short walk from the cave, you'll find the only natural freshwater pond on the island, offering a unique opportunity for a fish pedicure. Park rangers are often available to provide guided tours, sharing fascinating details about the cave's history, the significance of the drawings, and the formation of the stalactites. Exploring Fontein Cave requires some maneuvering due to uneven surfaces and low ceilings, so sturdy footwear and a flashlight are recommended.