Times of the Islands Winter 2023/24

The Conch Bar Cave system is
mostly flat, with no major ascents
or descents, so you need only basic
physical fitness to enjoy this natural
wonder. However, because the
caves are largely undeveloped, a
guide is required. This is a strict rule
designed to keep visitors safe and
prevent damage to the cave and its
occupants. Tour operators offer a
variety of options—from a half-hour
cave tour with a National Trust guide
to a stop at the caves on a full-day
tour of North and Middle Caicos.
While you’re on Middle Caicos,
don’t miss Indian Cave, a single-gallery
cave that’s easy and free to visit
(no guide required). Holes in the cave
ceiling provide natural skylights,
and ficus roots stretching down to
the cave floor create an eerie, otherworldly
backdrop. Indian Cave is
home to a variety of flora and fauna,
including birds, bats, and the giant
blue land crab. It has also served as
a shelter for humans over the centuries;
recent archaeological digs have
uncovered ancient pottery shards, as
well as fossils of now-extinct animal
species.
Middle Caicos’ ruggedness is part
of what makes this hidden gem so
special—but it also makes it a little
more challenging to get here. You’ll
have to take a flight or ferry to North
Caicos, then rent a car or hire a taxi
and take the causeway to Middle
Caicos.
CNN
Dig into history
Like other islands in the Caribbean,
TCI has a rich history spanning the
native Taíno and Lucayan peoples,
European colonization, and African
slaves. There are many opportunities
across the Islands to learn about
the various time periods and cultural
influences in TCI’s history.
If you’re staying on Provo, it’s
“Off the beach” options in Turks & Caicos include (from top): Taking a “potcake” for a walk and
potentially adopting your new friend. Exploring the Islands on the back of a horse. Touring
Cheshire Hall plantation on Providenciales.
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