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Hooiberg: Aruba's Iconic Haystack Mountain

Climb Aruba's iconic Hooiberg for panoramic island views. A rewarding hike with stunning vistas awaits!

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Hooiberg, meaning "haystack" in Dutch, is a distinctive 541-foot volcanic formation rising from Aruba's flat landscape. A staircase of approximately 587 steps leads to the summit, offering panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking exercise and stunning vistas.

A brief summary to AGW TOURS ARUBA

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. The midday sun can be intense.
  • Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. The climb can be strenuous, especially in the Aruban heat.
  • Take your time and rest at the gazebo halfway up. Enjoy the views along the way.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the summit.
  • There is no entrance fee, but be prepared for unsupervised parking.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take the Arubus Route 7 towards Hooiberg. The bus departs hourly from the central bus station. Get off at the Hooiberg Supermarket stop. From there, walk approximately 15 minutes to the base of Hooiberg Mountain. A single trip ticket costs $2.60 USD. A round trip costs $4.00 USD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad and can take you directly to the base of Hooiberg. A taxi from Oranjestad to Hooiberg costs approximately $11 USD. Taxi fares are regulated by the government. There may be an additional charge on Sundays, official holidays, and from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

  • Walking

    It is approximately a 1-hour walk (4.8 km) from Oranjestad to Hooiberg. Head east from the city center. Use a map for guidance. Be aware of the heat and bring water.

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Hooiberg is more than just a hill; it's a symbol of Aruba. Rising 541 feet (165 meters) above sea level, this volcanic formation offers a unique perspective on the island's beauty. Its name, meaning "haystack" in Dutch, likely comes from its resemblance to stacks of hay. For centuries, Hooiberg has been a landmark and lookout point. The indigenous Arawak people may have used it for ceremonies, and early settlers used it to spot ships. Today, a well-maintained staircase with around 587 steps makes the climb accessible to most. As you ascend, take in the unique flora and fauna. Cacti and Aruba's iconic divi-divi trees dot the landscape. The mountain is composed of a unique quartz diorite, named Hooibergiet, found only in Aruba and Iceland. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. On a clear day, you might even spot Venezuela on the horizon. Although cell towers and radio antennae are present, they don't detract from the stunning scenery. Many locals use the stairs for their daily exercise, so you may encounter joggers along the way.

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