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Cave · La Romana, La Romana
Cueva de las Maravillas
A limestone cave with hundreds of Taíno paintings and engravings, stalactites and illuminated walkways, between San Pedro de Macorís and La Romana.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Cueva de las Maravillas
The Cueva de las Maravillas is located in a national park between San Pedro de Macorís and La Romana, a few kilometers from the coast. It is a limestone cave with large chambers, stalactites, stalagmites and columns formed over millennia. What makes it special are the hundreds of rock paintings and engravings left by the Taínos and earlier peoples, depicting human figures, animals and symbols.
The visit is guided and covers about 240 meters along illuminated walkways and ramps, without difficult steps. Access has been adapted for wheelchairs, with an elevator at the entrance, which is rare in caves. The temperature inside is mild and humid.
Above ground, a visitors' center explains the geology and Taíno culture, and a dry-forest trail leads to the entrance. The cave is a good option for rainy days or for those who want to learn a bit of the island's history before the Spanish.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour, with the guided tour.
Best time
It can be visited at any time of year, rain or shine. Early in the morning the groups are smaller.
How to get there
It is beside the road between San Pedro de Macorís and La Romana, about 15 km west of La Romana center. Buses between Santo Domingo and La Romana pass the entrance; by car or taxi it's about 15 minutes.
Tip
Photography with flash is not allowed inside the cave, to protect the paintings. Ask about the guided tour schedule and arrive a few minutes early.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cueva de las Maravillas
Is the Cueva de las Maravillas wheelchair accessible?
Yes. It has an elevator at the entrance and level walkways throughout the route.
Who made the cave paintings?
The Taínos and earlier peoples who lived on the island before the arrival of the Spanish.
Is the visit to the Cueva de las Maravillas guided?
Yes, always with a guide, in groups that depart at regular intervals.