Quadirikiri sits on the southeast side of Arikok National Park, near the Vader Piet entrance. Two big chambers open off the entrance, both lit from above. Deeper in, the passage narrows and darkens, and that is where the bats roost: long-nosed and long-tongued species that leave at dusk to feed on cactus flowers. They are harmless and they mostly want nothing to do with you.
The legend attached to the cave is the part kids repeat afterwards: an Indian chief's daughter, forbidden to see the boy she loved, was said to have been shut in the cave, and her spirit escaped through the holes in the roof. It is folklore rather than history, and it is a lot more fun than most folklore you will be handed on a tour.
The cave is inside the national park, so park admission applies. Children have entered free in recent seasons. Confirm current rates when you buy. The road in from the Vader Piet gate is usually manageable in a normal car in dry conditions, but ask at the entrance before committing, because conditions change and much of Arikok genuinely does require four-wheel drive.
Fontein Cave, a short distance away, has Arawak drawings on its ceiling and is worth adding while you are in the area.
Sunbeams pour through holes in the cave roof, lighting two huge chambers. Legend says an Indian princess's spirit escaped through those openings.
Inside Arikok; park admission required.
More finds nearby
Conchi Natural PoolThe best swim on the island, and the hardest to reach. An honest look.
Ayo Rock FormationsQuieter than Casibari, with rock drawings over a thousand years old.
Baby BeachA half-moon lagoon that stays waist-deep for a very long way out.
Turn the list into a treasure hunt
Buska gives kids 75 Aruban treasures to find and photograph (this one included) and turns the trip into a keepsake book. Free to start, no ads, private by default.