If you’re a fan of adventure and natural wonders, the more than 300,000-year-old Hato Caves are a must-visit destination. You’ll go through an exciting journey of stunning limestone formations, ancient rock carvings, and captivating stories of the past. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of the Hato Caves!
Entrance fee: Adults are 17.50 ANG ($ 10), children are 14 ANG ($ 8)
Opening hours: Daily from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., last tour at 2 p.m.
The Hato Caves HistoryBeyond their stunning beauty, the Hato Caves hold historical and cultural significance. Indigenous Arawak people once inhabited Curacao, and evidence of their presence can be found within these caves. Ancient rock carvings offer a glimpse into their lives, illustrating their connection with nature and spirituality.
After that, in the early slave period, the Hato Airport was a plantation farm called Hato, hence the name Hato Caves. Fugitive slaves would hide in the caves, sometimes for months at a time. It was quite dangerous as there were absolutely no lights in the cave, and if they ran out of food, they had to go back to the plantation and steal some. This is when they were usually caught again.
The Hato CavesWhen you enter, prepare yourself to be enchanted by a world of natural wonders. Stalactites, stalagmites, and columns create a mesmerizing sight, showcasing the slow and steady work of water over thousands of years. These formations come in various shapes and sizes, resembling frozen fountains or ancient stone curtains.
As you’ll venture deeper into the Hato Caves, you’ll encounter chambers that feel like hidden sanctuaries. Some sections are lit with vibrant colored lights, accentuating the cave’s heavenly beauty. The Hato Caves also provide a unique habitat for various creatures adapted to the darkness. Keep an eye out for cave-dwelling bats, who play a crucial role in the cave ecosystem.
The Guided ToursIt’s no longer allowed to go into the caves by yourself, so you have to go with a tour guide. He’ll not only show you the cave but he will also take you on an interesting journey through history and gives you all kinds of little facts about the caves. The tours take about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the languages the guide has to speak. They depart every hour on the hour and the last tour leaves at 2 p.m., so make sure you’re on time. Please note that the caves are 60 meters above sea level and you have to climb a steep staircase therefore it may not be accessible to everyone.
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