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Fontein Cave: Aruba's Ancient Canvas

Explore ancient Arawak art and natural wonders in Aruba's Fontein Cave, a historical and geological treasure within Arikok National Park.

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Fontein Cave, located within Arikok National Park, offers a unique glimpse into Aruba's past. Adorned with ancient Arawak Indian petroglyphs, the cave showcases the island's indigenous heritage and natural beauty, featuring 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 for the short hike to the cave entrance and sturdy footwear for navigating the uneven surfaces inside.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to better view the intricate petroglyphs and navigate the darker sections of the cave.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Respect the ancient rock drawings and do not touch or deface them.
  • Stay hydrated by bringing water, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding Arikok National Park.
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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. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to navigate the park's rugged terrain. Enter the park through either the San Fuego entrance (the easiest to reach) or the Vader Piet entrance. Purchase a conservation pass at the entrance; the fee is $11 USD for adults. Children 17 and under are free. Follow the signs within the park to Fontein Cave. Parking is available near the cave entrance. Be aware that the roads within the park can be rough.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the hotel zone, a taxi or ride-share to Arikok National Park is a convenient option. The ride takes about 40 minutes. Negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand. Expect to pay around $40 - $50 USD for a one-way trip. The taxi can drop you off at either the San Fuego or Vader Piet entrance. Purchase a conservation pass at the entrance; the fee is $11 USD for adults. Children 17 and under are free. Arrange for the taxi to pick you up at a designated time, as finding a taxi within the park can be challenging.

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Discover more about Fontein Cave

Fontein Cave, nestled in Arikok National Park on Aruba's windward coast, is a captivating blend of natural wonder and historical significance. This limestone cave is renowned for its well-preserved Arawak Indian drawings on the ceilings, offering a tangible connection to the island's earliest inhabitants who settled here around 4000 years ago. These brownish-red petroglyphs, etched into the stone walls, depict symbols and figures that provide insights into the lives and beliefs of Aruba's indigenous people. As you venture into the cave, you'll be greeted by a mesmerizing display of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millennia by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water. The cave extends approximately 312 feet (95 meters) into the limestone rock, revealing a gradient of colors on the interior walls due to the presence of algae. Keep an eye out for the long-nosed and long-tongued fruit bats that call the cave home, along with other nocturnal creatures like crabs. Just a short distance from the cave entrance, you'll find Aruba's only natural freshwater pond, offering a unique opportunity to experience a natural fish pedicure. The park rangers at the cave entrance are eager to share their knowledge and provide guided tours, enriching your understanding of the cave's history, geology, and the significance of the rock art. Fontein Cave is easily accessible and a must-see destination for those seeking a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty.

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