Did you know that Fountain Cavern National Park houses the Caribbean’s most significant pre-Columbian ceremonial site? This archaeological treasure contains a 14-foot carved stalagmite of Jocahu, the supreme deity of the indigenous Taino people, dating back over 1,000 years. Unlike many commercialized attractions, this hidden gem offers visitors a rare glimpse into ancient Caribbean civilization while remaining one of Anguilla’s best-kept secrets.
About Fountain Cavern National Park
Fountain Cavern National Park is a remarkable archaeological site located on the northern coast of Anguilla. This underground cavern system descends approximately 50 feet below ground and features a freshwater pool that was vital to the indigenous Amerindians who once inhabited the island. The cavern walls are adorned with ancient petroglyphs and rock carvings, including the impressive stalagmite carved to represent the Taino deity.
The site gained national park status to preserve its historical and cultural significance. Today, it stands as one of the most important pre-Columbian sites in the Eastern Caribbean, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the region’s ancient past while providing context for understanding Anguilla’s rich cultural heritage.
Getting to Fountain Cavern National Park
Fountain Cavern National Park is located near Shoal Bay in northeastern Anguilla. The island itself is accessible by air or sea, with most visitors arriving via Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten, followed by a short ferry ride or small aircraft transfer to Anguilla.
By Air
Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) in Anguilla receives flights from nearby islands. Alternatively, fly into St. Maarten (SXM) and take a connecting flight to Anguilla with Trans Anguilla Airways or Anguilla Air Services. Flight time from St. Maarten to Anguilla is approximately 10 minutes.
Book your flights early to secure the best rates, especially during high season (December to April).
By Sea
Public ferries operate between Marigot Bay in St. Martin and Blowing Point in Anguilla. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Private boat charters are also available for a more personalized experience.
Once on Anguilla, you’ll need to arrange transportation to Fountain Cavern National Park. The site is approximately a 15-minute drive from The Valley, Anguilla’s capital.
When to Visit Fountain Cavern National Park
The best time to visit Fountain Cavern National Park and Anguilla is during the dry season from December to April. During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C) with minimal rainfall, perfect for exploring both the cavern and Anguilla’s famous beaches.
High Season (December-April)
- Ideal weather conditions with low humidity
- All tourist facilities operating at full capacity
- Guided tours of Fountain Cavern readily available
- Higher prices for accommodations and activities
- Advance reservations highly recommended
Low Season (May-November)
- Fewer crowds and reduced rates
- Occasional rainfall, particularly September-November
- Some restaurants and attractions may have limited hours
- Hurricane season (June-November) with peak risk in September-October
- More personalized attention from guides and service providers
Getting Around Anguilla
Navigating Anguilla requires some planning, as public transportation is limited. The island is small (just 16 miles long and 3 miles wide), making it relatively easy to explore once you have the right transportation.
Rental Cars
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Anguilla at your own pace. Several local rental agencies operate on the island, offering a variety of vehicles. You’ll need to purchase a temporary Anguilla driver’s license (approximately $25 USD), which can be obtained at the rental agency or police station. Remember that driving is on the left side of the road.
Taxis and Tours
Taxis are readily available and can be arranged through your accommodation. Many taxi drivers also serve as tour guides, offering valuable local insights. For a visit to Fountain Cavern National Park, consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation, as this ensures you’ll have an informative experience with someone knowledgeable about the site’s history and significance.
Top Things to Do at Fountain Cavern National Park
Fountain Cavern National Park offers a unique blend of archaeological wonders, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Here are the must-do activities when visiting this remarkable site:
Guided Cave Tour
The highlight of any visit is a guided tour of the cavern system. Knowledgeable guides explain the historical and cultural significance of the petroglyphs and rock carvings. The tour includes viewing the impressive 14-foot stalagmite carved to represent the Taino deity Jocahu, which served as a central worship site for indigenous ceremonies.
Book a guided tour to fully appreciate the archaeological significance of this site.
Photography Session
The cavern’s unique lighting and ancient rock art create exceptional photography opportunities. Bring a camera with good low-light capabilities and a tripod if possible. Remember to be respectful of the archaeological features and follow guide instructions about where photography is permitted.
Morning tours often provide the best lighting conditions for capturing the cavern’s details.
Learn About Taino Culture
The visitor center provides fascinating insights into the Taino people who once inhabited Anguilla. Learn about their customs, beliefs, and the significance of the freshwater pool within the cavern, which was a crucial resource and likely played a role in their religious ceremonies.
Take time to understand this important aspect of Caribbean indigenous history before descending into the cavern.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
While Fountain Cavern National Park is a fascinating destination in its own right, its proximity to other Anguilla attractions makes it easy to create a full day of exploration. Here are some nearby sites worth visiting:
Shoal Bay East
Just minutes from Fountain Cavern lies Shoal Bay East, consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. After exploring the cavern, relax on powdery white sand and swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach offers several restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Elodia’s Beach Bar and Madeariman Restaurant are popular spots for lunch with stunning ocean views.
Island Harbour
This charming fishing village offers a glimpse into authentic Anguillan life. Watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood on the island. Don’t miss Scilly Cay, a tiny islet just offshore that’s famous for its grilled lobster and potent rum punch.
A quick boat ride (available from the shore) takes you to this popular lunch spot, but check the operating days as it’s not open daily.
Heritage Collection Museum
Located in East End Village, this small but comprehensive museum offers insights into Anguilla’s history from prehistoric times through the colonial era to modern day. Curator Colville Petty provides engaging tours that bring the island’s past to life through artifacts, photographs, and documents.
The museum provides excellent context for understanding the significance of Fountain Cavern within Anguilla’s broader historical narrative.
Big Spring Cave
Another important archaeological site, Big Spring Cave also features Amerindian petroglyphs. While less extensive than Fountain Cavern, it offers another perspective on the island’s indigenous history and makes for an interesting comparison if you’re particularly interested in archaeology.
The site requires a short hike, so wear appropriate footwear and bring water.
Where to Stay Near Fountain Cavern
Anguilla offers accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to boutique hotels and private villas. Here are some recommended options near Fountain Cavern National Park:
Zemi Beach House
This luxury boutique hotel on Shoal Bay East combines modern amenities with traditional Anguillan architecture. Located just minutes from Fountain Cavern, it offers stunning ocean views, multiple dining options, and a Thai-inspired spa housed in a 300-year-old building.
The resort’s proximity to both Fountain Cavern and Shoal Bay makes it an ideal base for exploration.
Shoal Bay Villas
For a more intimate experience, these beachfront apartments and studios offer direct access to Shoal Bay East. Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen, making it perfect for longer stays or families. The property features lush tropical gardens and is within easy driving distance of Fountain Cavern.
The relaxed atmosphere and reasonable rates make this a popular choice for visitors.
Carimar Beach Club
Located on Meads Bay on the western side of the island, this collection of beachfront villas offers spacious accommodations with full kitchens. While a bit further from Fountain Cavern (about 20 minutes by car), it provides easy access to some of Anguilla’s best restaurants and beaches.
The property’s tennis courts and beautiful gardens add to its appeal for active travelers.
Where to Eat Near Fountain Cavern
Anguilla is known for its exceptional culinary scene, with options ranging from fine dining to casual beach bars. Here are some recommended restaurants near Fountain Cavern National Park:
Tropical Sunset Restaurant
Located on Shoal Bay East, this casual beachfront restaurant serves authentic Anguillan cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Try their grilled crayfish, conch fritters, or the catch of the day. The restaurant’s location right on the beach makes it perfect for a post-Fountain Cavern lunch with ocean views.
Prices are reasonable by Anguilla standards, and the relaxed atmosphere welcomes visitors in beach attire.
Gwen’s Reggae Bar & Grill
Another Shoal Bay favorite, Gwen’s offers barbecue chicken, ribs, and seafood in a laid-back setting. The restaurant features live reggae music on Sundays, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Their rum punch is legendary, and the beachside hammocks are perfect for post-meal relaxation.
Sunday afternoons are particularly lively, with music starting around 1 PM.
Elite Restaurant
For an authentic local experience, visit this restaurant in The Valley. Popular with Anguillans, Elite serves traditional island dishes like goat stew, johnny cakes, and pigeon peas and rice at very reasonable prices. It’s a great place to experience true Anguillan cuisine without the beachfront premium.
This is an excellent lunch option when traveling between Fountain Cavern and attractions on the western side of the island.
Scilly Cay
For a truly unique dining experience, take a short boat ride from Island Harbour to this tiny islet restaurant. Scilly Cay serves a simple menu of grilled lobster, crayfish, and chicken, accompanied by their famous rum punch. The setting—a small island surrounded by turquoise waters—is unbeatable.
Open only on Wednesday and Sunday, with boats departing from Island Harbour. Reservations aren’t taken, so arrive early.
Practical Tips for Visiting Fountain Cavern
Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: Tours are typically available from 9 AM to 4 PM, but it’s best to confirm current hours as they may vary seasonally.
- Admission: There is an entrance fee (approximately $10-15 USD), with guided tours available for an additional cost.
- Tour Duration: Allow 1-2 hours for a complete tour of the cavern and visitor center.
- Reservations: While walk-ins are sometimes possible, it’s recommended to book tours in advance, especially during high season.
- Accessibility: The cavern requires descending stairs and navigating uneven surfaces, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.
What to Bring
- Appropriate Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction for navigating the cavern’s sometimes slippery surfaces.
- Light Jacket: The cavern maintains a cool temperature year-round.
- Camera: Preferably one that performs well in low-light conditions.
- Water: Stay hydrated, especially if combining your visit with other outdoor activities.
- Cash: Some smaller establishments in Anguilla don’t accept credit cards.
- Insect Repellent: Useful for the approach to the cavern, especially during dawn or dusk hours.
Important Note: Fountain Cavern is an archaeological site of immense cultural significance. Please respect all guidelines provided by your guide, don’t touch the petroglyphs or rock formations, and take only photographs, leaving everything else as you found it.
Weather and Safety Information
Weather Considerations
Anguilla enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C) year-round. The dry season (December-April) offers the most reliable weather for exploring Fountain Cavern and other outdoor attractions.
Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk in September and October. If traveling during these months, consider travel insurance and keep an eye on weather forecasts.
Inside Fountain Cavern, temperatures remain consistently cool regardless of outside weather, providing a refreshing break from the tropical heat.
Safety Tips
- Anguilla is considered one of the safest Caribbean destinations, with low crime rates.
- Always follow your guide’s instructions when exploring Fountain Cavern.
- Stay on designated paths within the cavern to protect both yourself and the archaeological features.
- Apply sunscreen regularly when outdoors, as the Caribbean sun is intense year-round.
- Keep valuables secure and maintain awareness of your surroundings, as you would in any tourist destination.
- For emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance services.
Local Etiquette and Cultural Insights
Understanding local customs enhances your experience in Anguilla and shows respect for the island’s culture and heritage:
Cultural Considerations
- Anguillans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. A simple “Good morning” or “Good afternoon” goes a long way in establishing rapport.
- Dress modestly when away from beaches. While beachwear is fine at the shore, cover up when visiting towns, restaurants, or cultural sites like Fountain Cavern.
- Ask permission before taking photographs of local people.
- Respect the archaeological significance of Fountain Cavern by following all preservation guidelines.
- English is the official language, though you may hear locals speaking Anguillan Creole among themselves.
Dining and Tipping
- Service is typically relaxed and unhurried in Anguilla—embrace “island time” and enjoy the pace.
- A 10-15% tip is customary in restaurants if a service charge isn’t already included.
- Tipping tour guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff is appreciated—around 10-15% for guides and drivers.
- The U.S. dollar is widely accepted throughout Anguilla, though the official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$).
- Many restaurants require reservations during high season, especially for dinner.
Plan Your Visit to Fountain Cavern National Park
Fountain Cavern National Park offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and connect with the ancient history of the Caribbean. While Anguilla is justly famous for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts, this archaeological treasure provides a deeper understanding of the island’s rich cultural heritage and the indigenous peoples who first called it home.
Combine your visit to Fountain Cavern with explorations of nearby beaches, local cuisine, and other cultural sites for a truly memorable Anguilla experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking to add depth to your Caribbean vacation, Fountain Cavern National Park deserves a place on your Anguilla itinerary.
The above is subject to change.
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