Bushiribana Ruins, Noord Travel Guide

4.5 (1485)

Discover Aruba's gold mining history at the Bushiribana Ruins. Explore the historic stone mill and capture stunning ocean views on the rugged north coast.

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Bushiribana Ruins

Explore the hauntingly beautiful Bushiribana Gold Smelter Ruins, a relic of Aruba's 19th-century gold mining boom. These coastal stone remains offer a glimpse into the island's industrial past and stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Bushiribana Ruins

H23F+C9F, Noord, AW

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bushiribana Ruins.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the ruins is uneven and rocky.
Bring water and sunscreen, as the area offers little shade.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Alto Vista Chapel or the Ayo Rock Formations.

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Explore Bushiribana Ruins on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bushiribana Ruins, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Oranjestad, take Route 1B north towards Noord. Continue onto Route 1, following signs for the Bushiribana Ruins. The drive is approximately 20-25 minutes. Parking is available near the site. Note that the road can be rough in places.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad and other tourist areas. A taxi ride to Bushiribana Ruins from Oranjestad will take around 20 minutes. Expect to pay approximately $25 - $30. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Bushiribana Ruins

The Bushiribana Gold Smelter Ruins stand as a silent testament to Aruba's fleeting gold rush era. Built in 1872 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company, the Bushiribana Gold Mill was erected as a smelter for the gold extracted from nearby mines. The company, a subsidiary of a London-based firm, chose this location on the rugged northern coast to harness the strong ocean winds to power the mill. The mill operated for only a decade, processing ore from the Seroe Plat region. Despite its short lifespan, the solid construction of the Bushiribana Gold Mill has allowed its ruins to endure, offering visitors a tangible link to Aruba's industrial past. The ruins feature impressive stone walls, chimneys, and arches, showcasing 19th-century industrial architecture.Visitors can explore the site freely, imagining the bustling activity that once filled these now-empty walls. The window frames provide picture-perfect views of the Caribbean Sea, offering a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails and coastal scenery, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Aruba's north coast.