Quadirikiri Cave

Quadirikiri Cave lies in the limestone cliffs on the south-east edge of Arikok National Park, a short drive from the Vader Piet entrance. Its main chambers are lit by shafts of sunlight that fall through holes in the cave roof, and the darker passages behind are home to hundreds of harmless bats. It is the most photographed cave on Aruba and an easy, short visit within the park.

What makes Quadirikiri special?

The light. The Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) describes the cave as famous for its chambers illuminated by sunlight streaming through openings in the roof; on a bright day the beams move across the floor and walls as the sun climbs. The rock is a coral-limestone terrace — the youngest of Arikok's three geological formations — eroded by water into domes and tunnels. Small stalactites and algae colour the walls. ATA's texts mention possible petroglyphs, but the cave known for its Amerindian drawings is the nearby Fontein Cave.

What is the legend of Quadirikiri?

Local folklore, retold by ATA, tells of a chief's daughter imprisoned in the cave because of a forbidden love. Her lover found his way to her, and the two died there together; their spirits are said to have left through the holes in the ceiling. It is a story, not history — but it explains the holes in the roof in a way children remember.

Are the bats dangerous?

No. ATA describes them as harmless; they roost in the darker rear sections and leave the sunlit chambers to visitors. Keep voices down, don't shine lights directly at roosting bats and never touch them. The air inside is warm and humid, and the floor can be uneven and dusty.

When should you visit?

From mid-morning to early afternoon, when the sun is high enough to send its beams into the chambers — but within park hours: ACF lists San Fuego 8:00–15:30 and the Vader Piet entrance until 15:00. Pair it with Fontein Cave and the dunes of Boca Prins, all on the same side of the park.

Practical information

• Entry: with the Arikok conservation pass — US$22 per adult, under-17s free in 2026.
• Access: paved park road to a small car park below the cliff; a short walk to the entrance.
• Bring a small torch for the darker passages, closed shoes and water.
• Not suitable for wheelchairs: the cave floor is uneven.

For a fuller day in the park, see hiking in Arikok or the jeep tours that include the caves.