Arikok National Park: Aruba's Natural Heart

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Discover Aruba's wild side: Explore dramatic landscapes, ancient caves, and unique wildlife in Arikok National Park, a natural and cultural treasure.

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Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park, encompassing nearly 20% of Aruba's land, protects the island's diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines and desert hills to historical sites and unique geological formations. Explore caves with ancient Indian rock drawings, hike through varied terrain, and discover the island's natural and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Arikok National Park

San Fuego 70, Santa Cruz, AW
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as the park offers little shade and temperatures can be high.
Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle to access the Natural Pool and other off-road trails.
Visit the park in the early morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution, especially near cliffs and in caves.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

Cunucu Arikok

Cunucu Arikok: A Glimpse into Aruba's Past

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Rooi Tambu Trail

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Getting There

Taxi

From the hotel zone in Noord, a taxi to the San Fuego entrance of Arikok National Park takes approximately 40 minutes. The cost is around $30-$40. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The San Fuego entrance is the easiest to reach and where the visitor center is located.
Car

From the hotel zone in Noord, drive south towards Santa Cruz. The drive to the San Fuego entrance of Arikok National Park takes approximately 40 minutes. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, but not required to access the park. Park entrance fee is $11 USD per adult. Children 17 and under are free.

Discover more about Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park offers a captivating glimpse into Aruba's natural beauty and rich history. Established in 2000, the park covers approximately 20% of Aruba's land and safeguards a diverse range of flora, fauna, geological formations, and cultural heritage. The name 'Arikok' comes from the Arawak language, meaning 'mountain of stones,' reflecting the park's rugged terrain. Inside the park, you'll find varied landscapes, including desert hills dotted with towering cacti, dramatic coastlines, and unique geological formations made from lava, quartz diorite, and limestone. Explore caves like Fontein Cave and Quadirikiri Cave, where you can see ancient Indian rock drawings and learn about the island's early inhabitants. Fontein Cave features Indian pictographs dating back 1000 years, coexisting with carvings from colonial visitors. Quadirikiri Cave features two chambers illuminated by natural skylights. The park is also home to a variety of animals, including the Aruban Burrowing Owl, a symbol of Aruba's commitment to preserving its unique wildlife. You might also spot colorful birds, mammals like rabbits, and even the Aruba Island Rattlesnake, so be alert. Discover remnants of Aruba's gold rush era at the Miralamar gold mine, where you can see mine shafts and the basin where gold was rinsed. Visit restored adobe plantation houses (Cas di torto) at Cunucu Arikok, offering a glimpse into Aruba's agricultural past and the resilience of its early settlers. Whether you're hiking through dry riverbeds, exploring secluded bays like Moro, Boca Prins, and Dos Playa, or simply taking in the panoramic views, Arikok National Park offers an unforgettable experience.