Gadao's Cave: A Glimpse into Guam's Ancient Past

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Explore ancient Chamorro rock art and legends at Gadao's Cave, a historical treasure near Inalåhan, Guam. Discover the island's cultural heritage.

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Gadao's Cave

Gadao's Cave, near Inalåhan, Guam, is a significant rock art site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features pictographs created by the Chamorro people, offering insights into their culture and legends, particularly the story of Chief Gadao. The cave's natural beauty and historical importance make it a unique destination.

A brief summary to Gadao's Cave

7QG3+89M, Inalåhan, GU

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for the short hike from the road to the cave entrance.
Bring a flashlight to better view the pictographs inside the cave.
Combine your visit with a trip to Inalåhan Village to experience traditional Chamorro culture.

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Getting There

Driving

From the town of Inalåhan, drive north along Route 4. Turn right at the small sign that says "Gadao's Cave". The cave is a short hike from the road. Parking is limited near the trailhead. There are no tolls or parking fees.
Public Transport

The Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) operates bus routes that connect to Inalåhan. From the Inalåhan Mayor's Office, Gadao's Cave is a short taxi or car ride away. Bus fare is $1.00 per ride, or $3.00 for a day pass. A short taxi ride from Inalåhan to the cave would cost approximately $10-$15.

Discover more about Gadao's Cave

Gadao's Cave, also known as Liyang Gadao, is located near the village of Inalåhan in southwestern Guam. This unassuming seaside cave holds some of the most significant rock art in the Western Pacific, providing a window into the ancient Chamorro culture. The cave was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1974.The cave itself is relatively small, with an entrance approximately 10-12 feet wide and 10 feet high. Inside, the main chamber extends about 8 feet deep, 5 feet wide, and 7 feet high. The walls of the cave are adorned with approximately 50 pictographs, created using a mixture of coral lime and tree sap. These images, ranging from 3 inches to a foot in size, depict human-like and animal-like figures, as well as geometric shapes. The most famous of these is a depiction of two men, one seemingly carrying an object, believed to represent Chief Gadao and another chief named Malaguana.The pictographs are thought to be linked to Chamorro myths and legends, with some experts suggesting they illustrate the tale of Chief Gadao's strength and cunning. According to the legend, Chief Malaguana challenged Gadao, but Gadao cleverly tricked him. The creation date of the art is unknown, but potentially dates back to the eighth century AD. The cave and its art serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Guam and the Chamorro people.Visiting Gadao's Cave offers a chance to connect with Guam's past and appreciate the artistic expression of its early inhabitants. The surrounding area offers scenic views and a glimpse into the natural beauty of the island.