Arikok National Park: Aruba's Natural and Cultural Heart
Discover Aruba's wild side: Explore dramatic landscapes, ancient caves, and unique wildlife in Arikok National Park. A natural and cultural treasure.
Arikok National Park, encompassing nearly 20% of Aruba, offers a rugged landscape of desert hills, dramatic coastlines, and a wealth of native flora and fauna. Established in 2000, the park protects the island's biodiversity, geological formations, and historical sites, including ancient caves with Indian rock drawings and remnants of Aruba's gold rush era.
A brief summary to Arikok National Park
- San Fuego 70, Santa Cruz, AW
- +2975851234
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for hiking in hot, arid conditions. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle to access the park's more rugged areas, including the Natural Pool.
- Visit the park early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Take a guided tour with a park ranger to learn about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.
- Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution, especially near cliffs and in the caves.
Getting There
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Car
From the hotel zone in Noord, drive south towards Santa Cruz. Follow the main road (7A) towards San Fuego; the park's visitor center and main entrance are clearly signposted. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for exploring the entire park, especially the Natural Pool area. Parking is available at the visitor center.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in the hotel zone and Oranjestad. A taxi to the San Fuego entrance of Arikok National Park will take approximately 40 minutes from the hotel zone. Confirm the fare with the driver before departing. The approximate fare is $30 - $40 USD. The taxi can drop you off at the visitor center.
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Public Transport
Take the Arubus from Irausquin Plaza in Oranjestad to Maria Maai. From Maria Maai, it is still quite a distance to the park, consider a taxi from there. The bus fare is approximately $3 USD. The bus journey to Maria Maai takes about 21 minutes. Keep in mind that public buses do not directly access the park's interior.
Discover more about Arikok National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Fuego Entrance to Arikok National Park
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aruba's Arikok National Park at San Fuego Entrance, where adventure meets nature in a stunning tropical landscape.
Arikok
2.4 km
Discover Aruba's wild side: Explore dramatic landscapes, ancient caves, and unique wildlife in Arikok National Park.
Urataka Center
2.5 km
Discover the culinary delights of Aruba at Urataka Center, offering authentic local flavors in a charming setting perfect for every traveler.
Mammaloe's Aruba - Bed & Breakfast
2.9 km
Discover a unique Aruban retreat with a Gypsea vibe at Mammaloe's B&B, offering colorful charm and tranquility near local attractions.
Golden Anchor
3.1 km
Explore the Golden Anchor in Santa Cruz, Aruba - a must-see historical landmark that unveils the island's rich maritime heritage and captivating tales.
Aruba Smart Map
3.1 km
Explore Aruba like a local with Aruba Smart Map, your ultimate guide for navigating the island's beauty, culture, and hidden gems.
Parking for Conchi (Natural Pool)
3.3 km
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Balashi Gold Mills
3.4 km
Explore the historical significance of Balashi Gold Mills in Aruba, a landmark that showcases the island's rich mining heritage amidst stunning landscapes.
Sabana Basora Noord
3.4 km
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Eagle beach
3.4 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Eagle Beach in Aruba, where powdery sands meet crystal-clear waters for the ultimate relaxation and adventure.
Palm beach
3.4 km
Experience the ultimate Caribbean getaway at Palm Beach, Aruba, where pristine sands meet vibrant culture and endless adventure awaits.
Alpha Tours & Transfers Aruba
3.5 km
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Spanish Lagoon
3.5 km
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Santa Cruz Bar Restaurant
3.9 km
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Plantage Prins
3.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cunucu Arikok
0.7 km
Discover Aruba's heritage at Cunucu Arikok: Explore a restored farmstead and ancient rock art within a stunning national park.
Arikok Mountain
0.9 km
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Rooi Tambu Trail
1.2 km
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Jamanota Hill
1.4 km
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Pajarito Trail
1.5 km
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Natural Pool
2.3 km
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Rancho Loco
2.4 km
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Donkey Sanctuary Aruba
2.4 km
Experience the charm of Donkey Sanctuary Aruba, a wildlife refuge where you can interact with friendly donkeys while learning about their care and significance.
Sero di jan flemming
2.8 km
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Dam di Barbacua
2.9 km
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Dos Playa
3.1 km
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Dos Playa (nord beach)
3.1 km
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White Dunes
3.2 km
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Boca Keto
3.3 km
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Klein Aruba
3.4 km
Unwind on the pristine shores of Klein Aruba, a tranquil paradise perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun's rays.
Essential places to dine
Take Away
3.3 km
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Salina Local Cuisine Restaurant
3.4 km
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Driftwood
3.4 km
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Anker Fish
3.4 km
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Swiss Challe Dinning
3.4 km
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Aquairius
3.4 km
Experience a vibrant buffet at Aquairius in Santa Cruz, where local flavors meet international cuisine for an unforgettable dining adventure.
The New Shahai Take Away N.V.
3.5 km
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Wendy's Sta. Cruz
3.6 km
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jumbo bar restaurant
3.7 km
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Burger King
3.8 km
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Subway St Cruz
3.8 km
Discover fresh hoagies and customizable sandwiches at Subway St Cruz in Santa Cruz, Aruba – perfect for any time of day!
La Sabana Bar & Restaurant
3.8 km
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Taco Bell
3.8 km
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Parrilla bbq vip
3.9 km
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McDonald's
3.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sisters Melts Aruba
0.7 km
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Angels Beauty Shop Aruba
0.7 km
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Shun Li Supermarket
2.6 km
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Arawak Supply Co.
2.7 km
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Podera Aruba
2.7 km
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Onehappycard
2.8 km
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Angochi Supermarket
3.0 km
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Casique Food Mart
3.0 km
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Isabelle's Favorite Things Online Boutique
3.1 km
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2 Palms Aruba
3.1 km
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Forever Yours Bridal
3.1 km
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Bossmen Apparel
3.1 km
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Healthy skin Aruba
3.1 km
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Terranov Boutique
3.1 km
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M.K Online Shopping
3.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
B - J's
3.4 km
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Dhiram Barman
3.4 km
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The Rocks
3.4 km
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Irian Restaurant Bar
4.2 km
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Young Fellow Bar and Restaurant
4.4 km
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Mangel Halto Bar
4.5 km
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Casa Aruba
4.6 km
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Randy's Shakes
5.0 km
Discover the tropical flavors of Aruba at Randy's Shakes, your go-to juice shop for refreshing drinks and delightful shakes.
Los Recuerdos de Ella
5.1 km
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Fransou-Creator
5.2 km
Experience the best of Aruba's nightlife at Fransou-Creator, a lively cocktail bar in Savaneta, serving unique drinks and vibrant island vibes.
Terrace Bar & Cafe
5.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Terrace Bar & Cafe in Savaneta, Aruba – a must-visit for food lovers and sunset seekers.
Tai Shan Bar & Restaurant
5.7 km
Experience the delightful fusion of Chinese flavors and Aruba's charm at Tai Shan Bar & Restaurant, a culinary gem in Savaneta.
Mido Restaurant
5.8 km
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Zeerover
5.9 km
Experience the taste of fresh seafood in a beautiful coastal setting at Zeerover, Savaneta's hidden gem in Aruba.
Flying Fishbone
6.0 km
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