In short
- Art dates back 500 to 1,000 years.
- Found mostly in Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Línea.
- Flash photography and touching are strictly prohibited.
In this article
When you visit Los Haitises, exploring the cave systems is a primary activity. Tours allocate about 2 hours to navigate the mangroves and enter these historic spaces. Inside, you will see original indigenous artwork preserved on the limestone walls.
What kind of cave art is in Los Haitises?
The caves contain both petroglyphs (rock carvings) and pictographs (cave paintings).
These artworks were created by the Taíno people between 500 and 1,000 years ago. The drawings depict various aspects of tribal life, human figures, and local animals. The park contains hundreds of these ancient markings, making it a major archaeological site in the Dominican Republic.
Which caves have the best Taíno art?
Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Línea are the main caves for viewing the art.
Cueva de la Arena: A well-known sea cave with preserved animal and human pictographs and petroglyphs. It takes about 30 minutes to explore. Watch your step, as the floor can be damp.
Cueva de la Línea: This large cave features hundreds of drawings showing tribal life. You will spend about 30 minutes here. Bring a flashlight to see the art clearly.
What are the rules for visiting the caves?
You must hire a licensed park guide and follow strict preservation rules.
- Do not touch the petroglyphs or pictographs.
- Do not use flash photography inside the caves.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip for slippery surfaces.
A licensed guide is mandatory for all visitors entering the park, even on a private boat. They will help enforce these rules to protect the 1,000-year-old heritage.
How long do cave tours take?
Standard boat tours allocate 2 hours for exploring the mangroves and cave systems.
During this time, you will usually stop at two or three caves. You will need about 30 minutes each for Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Línea. Some tours also visit Cueva de San Gabriel. This cave features massive stalactites and takes about 20 minutes to walk through.
What should I pack for the cave tours?
Bring sturdy footwear and lighting for the dark, damp caves.
The limestone cave floors get very slippery. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Bring a flashlight so you can see the drawings without using your camera's flash. You should also pack insect repellent for the mangrove areas just outside the caves.
Can I explore the caves on my own?
No. Independent exploration of the caves is not allowed.
All visitors must be accompanied by a licensed park guide. You can book small-group boat tours from Sabana de la Mar or Samaná that include the mandatory guide. Full-day combo tours from Punta Cana also include guided cave expeditions.
Questions travellers ask
How old is the cave art in Los Haitises?
The Taíno petroglyphs and pictographs are estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 years old.
Can I use flash photography on the cave drawings?
No. Flash photography is strictly prohibited because it can damage the ancient art. Use a standard flashlight instead.
Which caves are included in the boat tours?
Most tours visit Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Línea. Some also include Cueva de San Gabriel to see massive stalactites.
