Fontein Cave
Discover ancient Arawak art in a shallow cave and enjoy a unique fish pedicure in Aruba's Arikok National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for art.
Fontein Cave
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Arawak art in a shallow cave and enjoy a unique fish pedicure in Aruba's Arikok National Park.
"The cave art is well-preserved and the fish pedicure is a fun, unique experience for all ages!"
Go with a Park Guide
Guides are passionate and make the cave art come alive. Highly recommended! :bravo:
Drive Slowly in Park
Rocky roads can bottom out rental cars. Take it easy! :oncoming_automobile:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arawak Pictographs
Inside Fontein Cave
Vibrant red ancient drawings on the cave roof, offering a glimpse into Arawak history. :art:
Fish Pedicure Pond
Outside Fontein Cave
Dip your feet into a natural pool where small fish gently exfoliate your skin. :fish:
Plantation Ruins
Near Fontein Cave
Explore remnants of historical plantation structures, adding context to the area's past. :building_construction:
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Ancient Art
Park Entry & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go with a Park Guide
Guides are passionate and make the cave art come alive. Highly recommended! :bravo:
Drive Slowly in Park
Rocky roads can bottom out rental cars. Take it easy! :oncoming_automobile:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the cave and park. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Fish Spa
The fish pedicure is a unique and fun experience for all ages. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Go with a Park Guide
Guides are passionate and make the cave art come alive. Highly recommended! :bravo:
Drive Slowly in Park
Rocky roads can bottom out rental cars. Take it easy! :oncoming_automobile:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the cave and park. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Fish Spa
The fish pedicure is a unique and fun experience for all ages. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fontein Cave a fascinating glimpse into Aruba's indigenous history, with well-preserved Arawak art. The unique fish pedicure pond is a highlight for many, especially families. While the cave itself is small, the informative guides and the natural setting enhance the experience. Some note that the cave art can be partially defaced, but the overall historical and natural appeal remains strong.
"The cave is small, but a very nice park ranger walked us around and showed us things. Unfortunately people have defaced much of the cave, but some ancient drawings are still there for viewing. There is a fish pond nearby that you can stick your feet into and the fish bible on your toes also."
Christopher Meeks
"Cave with indigenous paintings that are well preserved and quite bright red. Look on the roof for the paintings in the first part of the cave. Recommend waiting to take a tour of the cave with a park guide. Very informative. Accessible by regular car in Arikok national park. $22US daily park fee. If in regular rental car drive very slowly over the rocky runoff areas along the road or you will bottom them out."
Laurie Fox
"This is a place to learn about Aruban history. The guides here are passionate about their history and culture. Please come here. There is history written on these walls. There is also a spot to have fish nibble your toes."
Isaac Stevens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fontein Cave is located within Arikok National Park. You can drive to the cave entrance, but be aware that some roads within the park can be rough. A regular car can manage if driven slowly, but a 4x4 offers a smoother experience. The park has a daily entrance fee.
While there are hiking trails within Arikok National Park, the most direct route to Fontein Cave from the visitor center is via the paved roadway, which is more of a walk than a hike. The park offers other trails to different destinations.
Public transport options directly to Fontein Cave are limited. It's best to rent a car or arrange for a tour that includes transportation to Arikok National Park.
There is a daily entrance fee for Arikok National Park, which typically covers access to its attractions, including Fontein Cave. Check the park's official website for the most current pricing.
While a regular car can reach Fontein Cave if driven slowly and carefully over rough patches, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for easier navigation and access to other parts of Arikok National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to pay the daily entrance fee for Arikok National Park to access Fontein Cave. This fee grants you access to the park and its various natural attractions.
Fontein Cave is typically open during the operating hours of Arikok National Park. It's advisable to check the park's official website or inquire at the visitor center for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended for Fontein Cave. Park rangers are often available to provide informative tours, explaining the history and significance of the cave art.
You can enter Fontein Cave without a guide, but it is strongly recommended to join a guided tour to fully appreciate the ancient pictographs and learn about their historical context.
The entrance fee for Arikok National Park is typically a daily fee per vehicle, which covers all occupants. Confirm the exact policy upon arrival or on the park's official website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Inside Fontein Cave, you'll find well-preserved, bright red pictographs created by the Arawak people on the cave roof. The cave itself is relatively shallow, but the art is the main draw.
Outside the cave, there's a natural pool where small fish nibble at your feet, offering a unique exfoliating experience. It's a popular and fun activity for visitors of all ages.
Yes, the ruins of an old plantation are located very close to Fontein Cave, offering a glimpse into the area's historical past. The fish pedicure pond is also right outside the cave.
Fontein Cave is generally suitable for children. They often find the cave art fascinating and the fish pedicure pond to be a highlight of the visit.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring the cave and surrounding area. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are the ancient pictographs on the cave roof and the unique fish pedicure pond outside. The surrounding natural landscape also offers scenic shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside Fontein Cave, but it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and the delicate cave environment. Flash photography might be discouraged to preserve the ancient art.
Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can provide softer, more even lighting for photographing the pictographs, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing their visibility.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. It's best to check Arikok National Park's specific regulations regarding drones before flying.
While tripods might be cumbersome in the cave, there are usually no strict restrictions on standard camera equipment. However, always be mindful of the space and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking and be prepared for the park entrance fee. Driving slowly within the park is key if you're in a rental car. The guides are usually great with children, making the historical aspects of the cave accessible and engaging for younger visitors.
🚶♀️ Nature & History Enthusiasts
Combine your visit to Fontein Cave with exploration of the nearby plantation ruins and the rugged landscapes of Arikok. Consider a 4x4 for a more thorough exploration of the park's natural wonders beyond the cave.
🏖️ Beach Goers Looking for a Break
It's an easy excursion to add to your itinerary, especially if you're already exploring Arikok National Park. The combination of ancient art and a natural fish spa makes for a memorable and different kind of island experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Art of Fontein Cave
It's important to note that while the art is remarkably preserved, some areas may show signs of defacement from early European visitors, a stark reminder of the passage of time and cultural interactions. Visitors are urged to stay on designated paths and refrain from touching the cave walls to help preserve this precious heritage for future generations. The guides play a crucial role in educating visitors about the importance of conservation.
Experiencing Fontein Cave is more than just seeing old drawings; it's about connecting with Aruba's deep past. The guides' passion and knowledge truly enhance the visit, making it an educational and memorable part of any trip to Arikok National Park.
The Unique Fish Pedicure Experience
This natural spa is a delightful contrast to the historical exploration of the cave. It's a chance to relax and enjoy a peculiar natural phenomenon. While some might find the sensation ticklish, most describe it as a refreshing and unique way to unwind after exploring the park. Remember to rinse your feet before and after to maintain hygiene.
Tips for the fish pedicure: Ensure your feet are clean before entering the water. Be patient, as the fish work best when undisturbed. It's a simple yet memorable part of the Fontein Cave visit that adds an element of playful discovery.
Navigating Arikok National Park
For those seeking to explore more of Arikok's diverse landscapes, including rugged coastlines and other natural wonders, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. This will provide a more comfortable and secure way to navigate the park's more remote and uneven tracks. Many visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation, which can be a convenient way to see the park without the hassle of driving on rough terrain.
Beyond Fontein Cave, Arikok National Park offers hiking trails, dramatic cliff formations, and natural pools. Planning your visit to include ample time to explore these other attractions, in addition to the cave and its surroundings, will make for a more comprehensive experience of Aruba's natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit