The Conch Bar Caves of Turks and Caicos
Where Is Turks And Caicos Located?
Turks and Caicos is a country comprised of tiny islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean. Renowned for its beaches, it is a tourism destination and also an offshore financial center. The local population is just over 31,000 and the islands span a cumulative land area of around 430 square kilometers. There are a total of thirty islands divided into the six administrative districts. The islands were discovered by Spanish conquistadors before being passed on to the French and eventually ending up in the hands of the British. The islands are currently a British Overseas Territory.
Location And Climate
The Conch Bar Caves are located near the village of Conch Bar in the Middle Caicos Island. Also known as the Grand Caicos Island, it is the largest island in the country. The islands feature a relatively dry and sunny marine tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24 掳C to around 28 掳C. It is a karst cave system with specialized cave fauna and flora including bats, crustaceans and isopods.
History and Discovery Of The Conch Bar Caves of Turks and Caicos
The extensive system of caves has longtime captured the attention of archaeologists as it is home to significant Lucayan Indian archaeological sites. Towards the east lie the ruins of the Haulover Plantation. As many as 38 Lucayan sites have been identified so far on the island and recent excavation activities have also revealed that the site was most likely the primary location of the Lucayan folk. The caves were also mined for guano which is the accumulated excrement of seabirds. Guano was a major export as a fertilizer in 1880s and many markings and etchings by miners can be seen on the walls of the caves. Many have dates inscribed as well and it was during these excavation activities that the Lucayan artifacts were first discovered in the caves.
Other Noteworthy Nearby Attractions
Another noteworthy nearby attraction is the breathtaking and stunning Mudjin Harbour located on the North Shore of the island. The caves are also part of a National Park. The cave system hosts impressive stalactites and stalagmites and other cave features. The area includes Village Hill and several nearby ponds. The above ground area supports rare plant and animal populations. The caves have significant human history from the pre-Columbian past to the recent colonial times.
Tourism Facts
The site is open on weekdays from 9:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The park is managed by the National Trust and visiting outside of the specified hours including on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) can be arranged by prior appointment.
Bringing shoes with grip is highly recommended as the cave floor is wet and slippery. Wearing hats is also not advisable due to low ceilings and chances of injuries are high due to limited vision.
The Conch Bar Cave system is an attractive destination for those interested in historical artifacts and adventure seekers. It is one of the largest cave systems in the Caribbean.
