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Gadao's Cave: Ancient Chamorro Art

Discover ancient Chamorro rock art at Gadao's Cave in Inalåhan, Guam, and immerse yourself in the legends of Chief Gadao.

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Explore Gadao's Cave in Inalåhan, Guam, a nature preserve featuring ancient Chamorro pictographs. The cave holds cultural significance, linked to the legend of Chief Gadao, and offers a glimpse into the island's past through its unique rock art and geological formations.

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 sturdy shoes for hiking and exploring the cave's uneven terrain.
  • Bring a flashlight to explore the deeper parts of the cave.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities inside the cave.
  • Learn about the local Chamorro culture to enhance your visit and understanding of the cave's significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the small sign on Route 4 indicating 'Gadao's Cave', follow the narrow road towards Inarajan Bay. Pass the 'Keep Out' chain and continue towards the beach. The trail veers left along the shoreline, between large boulders. Continue until you see a reddish rock structure with a walkable ridge. Climb up and walk along the rock wall; the cave opening is to your left.

  • Public Transport

    From Fonte Plateau, take the bus route that goes south towards Inalåhan. Check the local bus schedule for times. Get off at the stop nearest to Route 4. Walk about 0.5 miles along Route 4 towards Gadao's Cave. Look for the sign indicating the entrance. Be cautious as there may not be sidewalks. Bus fare averages around $3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Guam, but availability in Inalåhan may be limited. A taxi from a major hotel or shopping center in Tumon to Gadao's Cave would involve a longer trip. The standard flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter. Expect to pay upwards of $40-$50 for a taxi from Tumon.

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Discover more about Gadao's Cave

Gadao's Cave, also known as Liyang Gadao, is located near Inalåhan and stands as a testament to Guam's rich cultural heritage. This small limestone cave, a site of ancient Chamorro rock art, is more than just a geological formation; it's a canvas telling stories of Guam's indigenous people. The cave itself is relatively small, measuring approximately three meters wide, two meters high, and six meters deep. Inside, you'll discover impressive stalactites and stalagmites shaped over centuries. The main draw, however, is the collection of approximately 50 pictographs etched onto the cave walls. These drawings, ranging from 2 to 20 centimeters in height, depict human-like and animal-like figures, along with geometric shapes and enigmatic symbols. The pictographs were created using a white lime compound derived from coral, mixed with resin from local trees. The most famous drawings are on the east wall and feature two human figures, one seemingly carrying an object, possibly a coconut. These figures are believed to represent Chief Gadao and Chief Malaguaña, figures from a Chamorro legend. According to the legend, Chief Malaguaña, known for his strength, heard about the even stronger Chief Gadao of Inalåhan and sought to challenge him. Meeting Gadao in disguise, Malaguaña was tricked into believing Gadao's strength was that of an ordinary villager. Gadao then demonstrated his immense power by squeezing milk from a coconut with his bare hands. Impressed, Malaguaña decided not to challenge Gadao. Gadao's Cave was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

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