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Arikok National Park: Aruba's Natural Heart

Discover Aruba's wild side: Explore caves, hike volcanic hills, and encounter unique wildlife in Arikok National Park.

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Arikok National Park, encompassing nearly 20% of Aruba's land, offers a rugged, diverse landscape showcasing the island's unique flora, fauna, and history. Explore caves with ancient Arawak drawings, hike through desert terrain, and discover hidden beaches along the coast.

A brief summary to Arikok National Park

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water, as the park's terrain can be challenging and shade is limited.
  • Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle to navigate the park's rough roads, especially if you plan to visit the Natural Pool.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and see wildlife when they are most active.
  • Take a guided tour with a park ranger to learn about the park's history, geology, flora, and fauna.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem and encountering potentially dangerous wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Aruba's hotel zone (Noord), a taxi to Arikok National Park's San Fuego entrance takes approximately 40 minutes. Taxi fares are government-regulated; expect to pay around $30-$40 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before departure. The San Fuego entrance is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

  • Rental Car

    Driving from the hotel zone (Noord), follow the main road south towards Santa Cruz. Continue to San Fuego 70, Santa Cruz, where you will find the visitor center. The journey is approximately 40 minutes. A 4x4 is recommended but not required to enter the park. Park entrance fee is $11 USD per adult. Parking is available at the visitor center.

  • Public Transport

    While Arubus, Aruba's public bus system, does not directly access Arikok National Park, you can take a bus to a nearby location like Santa Cruz and then take a taxi to the park entrance. A round trip bus ticket is $5 USD, and a day pass is $10 USD. A taxi from Santa Cruz to the park will cost approximately $15-$20 USD. Factor in potential wait times for both the bus and taxi.

Unlock the Best of Arikok National Park

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Discover more about Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park, established in 2000, protects nearly 20% of Aruba's diverse ecosystems, geological formations, and historical heritage. The park's name, derived from the Arawak language, means 'mountain of stones,' reflecting its rugged terrain. Explore the park's geological wonders, including the Aruba lava formation, Aruba Batholith, and limestone terraces. Discover unique flora and fauna adapted to the arid conditions, such as candelabra cacti, thorny bushes, the Aruban whiptail lizard, and the Aruban burrowing owl. Delve into the park's rich history at Fontein Cave, adorned with pre-Columbian Arawak drawings and early European settler carvings. Visit the remains of the Miralamar gold mine, a testament to Aruba's gold rush era. Hike to Cunucu Arikok, a partially restored farm showcasing Aruba's agricultural past. Enjoy the park's diverse landscapes, from the windswept north coast with beaches like Dos Playa and Boca Prins , popular for surfing and picnics, to the serene natural pool, Conchi. Arikok National Park is a testament to Aruba's commitment to conservation, offering visitors a chance to connect with the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

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