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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best natural light for photos
Quadirikiri Cave
Best Time
Best natural light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient petroglyphs and sunlight-dappled chambers in this sacred limestone cave, a natural wonder in Arikok National Park.
"Online photographs do not do it justice. Please go see for yourself."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunlight-Dappled Chambers
Main cave areas
Witness sunlight stream through ceiling openings, illuminating the vast limestone formations and creating a magical atmosphere.

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

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arikok National Park Entry
Respect the Bats & Caves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
ABC Aruba Jeep Tour - Quadirikiri included?
Driving around with kids
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floors can be uneven and rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Guided Tours Enhance Experience
Local guides share fascinating history and point out hidden details.
[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.
No Flashlights Needed!
Natural light is sufficient and avoids disturbing the bats. Let your eyes adjust.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floors can be uneven and rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Guided Tours Enhance Experience
Local guides share fascinating history and point out hidden details.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🦇 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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
🚗 Adventure Seekers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Arikok National Park
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.
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.
The History and Significance of Quadirikiri Cave
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit