Discovering the Quicksand Lake Cave Shrine: A Hidden Gem in the Gerudo Desert
If you’re exploring the vast and mysterious Gerudo Desert, one of the hidden treasures you might stumble upon is the Quicksand Lake Cave Shrine. This unique location is not only intriguing due to its entrance—a whirlpool of quicksand—but also for the challenges and rewards that await inside. Whether you’re on a quest for adventure or simply looking to uncover every secret the desert has to offer, the Quicksand Lake Cave Shrine is a must-visit.
How to Reach the Quicksand Lake Cave
Finding the entrance to the Quicksand Lake Cave can be a bit tricky if you don’t know where to look. The cave is located in the southern part of the Gerudo Desert, just south of Kara Kara Bazaar. Specifically, you can find it at coordinates -3238, -2936, 0009. The entrance is marked by a swirling whirlpool of quicksand, which acts as a gateway to the cave below.
To enter, simply step into the quicksand whirlpool. Don’t worry about getting stuck—this whirlpool is your ticket to a hidden world beneath the desert sands. As you sink into the quicksand, you’ll be transported to the cave’s interior, where the real adventure begins.
Navigating the Quicksand Lake Cave
Once inside, you’ll notice that the cave is filled with a steady flow of quicksand moving from west to east. This flowing quicksand can be both a friend and a foe, depending on how you use it.
Using Ultrahand and Recall
One of the key tools you’ll need to navigate this cave is Ultrahand. Scattered throughout the cave are wooden boards floating along the quicksand. These boards are crucial for making your way through the cave, especially if you’re aiming to reach specific areas.
To use these boards effectively:
- Move the Board: Use Ultrahand to grab a wooden board and place it where you want to go.
- Return the Board: Once you’ve set the board in your desired location, bring it back toward you.
- Ride the Board: Stand on the board and activate Recall to return it to the position you placed it earlier. This clever use of tools will allow you to traverse the quicksand safely.
Climbing and Gliding
If you prefer a more vertical approach, the stone columns scattered throughout the cave provide an excellent way to explore. These columns can be climbed, allowing you to reach higher platforms or glide across gaps using your paraglider.
To maximize your climbing:
- Jumping Off Columns: While holding onto a stone column, press the jump button and push the control stick in the opposite direction to leap away from the column. This move is handy for reaching distant platforms or avoiding enemies.
What to Find in Quicksand Lake Cave
The cave is more than just a maze of quicksand and stone—it’s also home to various treasures and a few surprises.
The Bubbulfrog
In the southwestern part of the cave, perched on a stone column, you’ll find the elusive Bubbulfrog. This creature is worth tracking down if you’re hunting for special items or just looking to complete your collection of cave creatures.
The Like Like and Treasure Chest
As you explore further into the cave, particularly in the western section, you’ll come across a ledge guarded by a Like Like—a formidable enemy known for its sticky tongue and ability to engulf unsuspecting adventurers. Defeating this creature is worth the effort, as it guards a treasure chest containing valuable loot. Be prepared for a tough fight, but rest assured that the reward is well worth the challenge.
The Shrine Sensor and the Hidden Shrine
While navigating the cave, you might notice your Shrine Sensor going off. This indicates that there’s a shrine nearby, but here’s the catch: you can’t access this shrine directly from the cave. Instead, the shrine is located in the Ancient Prison Ruins, a separate area that you’ll need to visit after completing your exploration of the Quicksand Lake Cave.
If you’ve already unlocked the Shrine Sensor by completing the Hateno Village Research Lab quest, the sensor will be invaluable in guiding you to the shrine’s exact location once you’re outside the cave.
Tips for Exploring the Quicksand Lake Cave Shrine
- Plan Your Route: The quicksand flow can be unpredictable, so take your time to plan your moves carefully, especially when using the wooden boards.
- Watch for Enemies: The cave isn’t just a series of puzzles—it’s also home to several enemies that can make your journey more difficult. Be ready for combat, especially when facing the Like Like.
- Use Your Tools Wisely: Ultrahand and Recall are your best friends in this cave. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ways of using them to overcome obstacles.
Uncover the Secrets Beneath the Sands
The Quicksand Lake Cave Shrine is more than just a hidden location—it’s a test of your problem-solving skills, combat abilities, and understanding of the game’s mechanics. Whether you’re here for the treasures, the challenges, or simply to say you’ve conquered the cave, this is one adventure that’s sure to leave you with stories to tell. So gear up, take the plunge into the whirlpool, and discover what lies beneath the sands of the Gerudo Desert!
