Quadirikiri Cave - man in front of a triangular cave a.k.a siwowo cave
1 / 10

Quadirikiri Cave

4.7
·714 reviews·Savaneta, Aruba

Discover ancient petroglyphs and sunlight-dappled chambers in this sacred limestone cave, a natural wonder in Arikok National Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-morning

Best natural light for photos

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Quadirikiri Cave - man in front of a triangular cave a.k.a siwowo cave

Quadirikiri Cave

Best Time

Mid-morning

Best natural light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover ancient petroglyphs and sunlight-dappled chambers in this sacred limestone cave, a natural wonder in Arikok National Park.

4.7
(714 reviews)

"Online photographs do not do it justice. Please go see for yourself."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Cash for Park Entry

Park entrance fees and potential tour guide fees are often cash-only.

No Flashlights Needed!

Natural light is sufficient and avoids disturbing the bats. Let your eyes adjust.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunlight-Dappled Chambers

Sunlight-Dappled Chambers

Main cave areas

Witness sunlight stream through ceiling openings, illuminating the vast limestone formations and creating a magical atmosphere.

Ancient Petroglyphs

Ancient Petroglyphs

Cave walls

Discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the cave walls, offering a glimpse into the island's indigenous history.

Reddit
The Heart Rock Formation

The Heart Rock Formation

Specific alcove

Find the iconic heart-shaped opening in the rock, a popular spot for unique photos and a symbol of Aruba's charm.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Arikok National Park Entry

Quadirikiri Cave is within Arikok National Park. Ensure you have your park pass or be prepared to purchase one upon arrival. Consider visiting with a guided tour for deeper insights into the cave's history and ecology. Reddit

Respect the Bats & Caves

Quadirikiri is home to fruit bats. Avoid using flashlights that can disturb them; natural light often suffices. The caves hold historical significance, so tread lightly and appreciate their natural beauty. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mid-morning
Why
Best natural light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you're looking for things to do in Nara, check out the Goyomatsu Limestone Caves! Make sure to take cash for the car park, monorail and entrance to the caves 🙏 #traveljapan #japantravel #japaninspo #japantrip #nara #narajapan #japaninspo #lifeinjapan #japanlife #yoshinonara #limestonecave #japantips #japantiktok
@holliergcx
14.7K likes • 331.8K views

Bring Cash for Park Entry

Park entrance fees and potential tour guide fees are often cash-only. TikTok

No Flashlights Needed!

Natural light is sufficient and avoids disturbing the bats. Let your eyes adjust. Reddit

reddit.com

ABC Aruba Jeep Tour - Quadirikiri included?

reddit.com

Driving around with kids

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The cave floors can be uneven and rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

Guided Tours Enhance Experience

Local guides share fascinating history and point out hidden details. Reddit

reddit.com

[OC] I took this photo of a cave ceiling in Aruba. More details in the comments.

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Cash for Park Entry

Park entrance fees and potential tour guide fees are often cash-only. TikTok

No Flashlights Needed!

Natural light is sufficient and avoids disturbing the bats. Let your eyes adjust. Reddit

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The cave floors can be uneven and rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

Guided Tours Enhance Experience

Local guides share fascinating history and point out hidden details. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(714 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by Quadirikiri Cave's natural beauty, particularly the sunlight streaming through its openings and the ancient petroglyphs. The 'heart rock' formation is a popular photo spot, and many appreciate the historical context provided by knowledgeable guides. While the cave is relatively small, its unique atmosphere and significance make it a memorable stop within Arikok National Park.

"By far one of the most impressive cave systems I've ever seen. This cave system is located in Arikok National Park, which is home to free-roaming goats and donkeys, which you will encounter frequently if you go on excursions or rent a car.

The Native Americans' complex and sad history makes the caverns a sacred and memorable site. Please go see for yourself. Online photographs do not do it justice."

Averie

"Super cool bat caves - the local guide is very knowledgeable, gave us a tons of valuable historical stories of this place! He even took picture of the heart rock for very single guest in our group- another example of how hospitable, kind and sweet Arubans are ❤️ this is part of our tour with ABC company"

Qween Ann

"You don’t need a 4x4 to get here, just drive slowly. Really cool caves, amazing to explore and see. Please don’t use a flashlight and disturb the bats- you don’t need it with all the natural light, just be careful and let your eyes adjust."

Laura John

What People Like

Natural light shafts
Ancient petroglyphs
Heart rock photo op

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Quadirikiri Cave is located within Arikok National Park on the eastern side of Aruba. You can reach it by renting a car (a 4x4 is recommended for exploring the park, though some reviews suggest a regular car can manage if driven slowly) or by joining a guided tour. Many jeep tours, like those offered by ABC Aruba, include Quadirikiri Cave as a stop. Reddit

While parts of Arikok National Park are best explored with a 4x4, the main roads leading to popular spots like Quadirikiri Cave are generally manageable with a regular car if you drive cautiously. However, for the full park experience and to access more remote areas, a 4x4 is advisable. Reddit

The roads within Arikok National Park can be unpaved and bumpy. Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings. The path to Quadirikiri Cave itself is relatively straightforward once inside the park. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Quadirikiri Cave is located within Arikok National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can purchase your park pass at the entrance stations or sometimes online in advance. Reddit

Quadirikiri Cave is generally accessible during the operating hours of Arikok National Park. It's best to check the official Arikok National Park website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Quadirikiri Cave independently if you have your own transportation and have paid the Arikok National Park entrance fee. However, a guided tour can offer valuable historical and geological insights. Reddit

Information on discounts for Arikok National Park entry is best found on their official website. It's always a good idea to check for any available promotions or group rates. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The cave has natural light filtering through openings, which is ideal for photography. Avoid using flash to protect the bats. Focus on capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the cave formations and petroglyphs. The 'heart rock' is a popular photo spot. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone with good low-light capabilities will work well. The natural light is often sufficient. If you plan to take more advanced shots, a camera with manual settings for aperture and ISO can be beneficial. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with park rangers upon arrival or consult the Arikok National Park guidelines. Be mindful of other visitors and the delicate cave environment. Reddit

Look for the dramatic shafts of sunlight piercing the darkness, the intricate patterns of the limestone, and the ancient petroglyphs. The 'heart rock' formation is a must-capture. Reddit

🎫 🦇 Wildlife & Environment

The most notable inhabitants are fruit bats, which are crucial to the cave's ecosystem. You might also see other small cave-dwelling insects. Remember to observe them from a distance and avoid disturbing them. Reddit

Yes, the bats in Quadirikiri Cave are generally not aggressive towards humans. The main concern is to avoid disturbing them with bright lights or loud noises. Reddit

Quadirikiri Cave was once underwater, which is why you can find fossilized coral within its rock formations. The natural light openings are a result of erosion over time. Reddit

Be respectful of the natural environment and its inhabitants. Do not touch the cave walls or formations, avoid littering, and keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing the bats. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Quadirikiri Cave is an exciting adventure for families! The natural light filtering through the ceiling openings creates a magical atmosphere that kids will love. The 'heart rock' formation is a fun photo opportunity. Remember to keep a close eye on children as the cave floor can be uneven. Reddit

Consider booking a family-friendly jeep tour that includes the cave, as guides can keep children engaged with stories and point out interesting features. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes and brings water. The presence of bats might be a highlight for curious young explorers, but remind them to observe quietly and respectfully. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Quadirikiri Cave offers unique opportunities to capture dramatic light and shadow play. The natural light shafts are perfect for creating atmospheric shots. Focus on the textures of the limestone, the ancient petroglyphs, and the iconic 'heart rock.' Reddit

Experiment with different angles and compositions to highlight the cave's scale and natural beauty. While flash is discouraged to protect the bats, a camera with good low-light performance will yield excellent results. Golden hour visits can add an extra layer of warmth and depth to your images. Reddit

🚗 Adventure Seekers

If you're looking for a dose of adventure, exploring Quadirikiri Cave is a must. Renting a 4x4 and navigating the rugged terrain of Arikok National Park to reach the cave adds an element of thrill. The cave itself, with its natural formations and historical markings, provides an intriguing exploration. Reddit

Combine your visit with other Arikok attractions like the Natural Pool or the rugged coastline for a full day of exploration. Guided jeep tours are also a fantastic way to experience the park's adventurous side, with knowledgeable guides leading the way. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Arikok National Park

Quadirikiri Cave is just one gem within the expansive Arikok National Park, which covers about 18% of Aruba. This park is a rugged, natural wonderland, characterized by its dramatic desert landscape, volcanic rock formations, and stunning coastline. Visitors can explore diverse terrains, from arid scrubland dotted with cacti to hidden coves and ancient caves. The park is also home to free-roaming goats and donkeys, adding to its wild charm. Reddit

To truly experience Arikok, consider renting a 4x4 vehicle, which allows access to more remote areas like Dos Playas and Boca Prins. Alternatively, numerous guided jeep tours are available, offering a convenient way to see the park's highlights, including Quadirikiri Cave, the Natural Pool, and historical sites. These tours often provide valuable context and ensure you don't miss any key attractions. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of water, wear sun protection, and wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be challenging. The park offers a stark contrast to Aruba's popular beaches, providing a glimpse into the island's raw, natural beauty and rich history. Reddit

The History and Significance of Quadirikiri Cave

Quadirikiri Cave holds a special place in Aruba's history, serving as a sacred site for the island's indigenous Caiquetio people. The ancient petroglyphs found etched into its walls are a testament to their presence and cultural practices, offering a tangible connection to Aruba's past. These markings are believed to be thousands of years old and provide insights into the lives and beliefs of the island's earliest inhabitants. Reddit

The cave's unique geological formation, once submerged underwater, is evident in the fossilized coral visible within its structure. Over millennia, erosion and geological shifts have shaped the cave into the dome-like chambers seen today. The natural openings in the ceiling are a remarkable feature, allowing sunlight to illuminate the interior, creating an ethereal ambiance and making it a prime spot for photography. Reddit

Local guides often share captivating stories about the cave's history, its connection to the Caiquetio people, and the ecological role of the fruit bats that reside within. Understanding this context enhances the visitor experience, transforming a simple cave visit into an educational and moving encounter with Aruba's heritage. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2