Casibari Rock Formations: Aruba's Desert Oasis
Explore Aruba's mysterious Casibari Rock Formations: climb ancient boulders, discover panoramic views, and connect with the island's indigenous history.
Rising from Aruba's desert landscape, the Casibari Rock Formations present a captivating geological enigma. These massive tonalite boulders, located near Paradera, are believed to be remnants of ancient volcanic activity, sculpted over millennia by wind and water. The rocks are spread across approximately 30,000 square meters, with some towering up to 20 meters high. Visitors can explore the formations via well-maintained trails and steps that wind through the boulders. The climb to the top offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Aruba's landscape, and on a clear day, you might even spot Venezuela on the horizon. The site is home to diverse flora and fauna, including cacti, lizards, iguanas, and burrowing owls. Casibari's history is intertwined with the island's indigenous Arawak people. Petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings, have been found on some of the boulders, suggesting the area held spiritual significance and was used for rituals and gatherings. The exact origin and age of the formations remain a mystery, adding to their allure. Today, Casibari features a café where visitors can enjoy refreshments after their exploration. The site offers free parking and Wi-Fi, making it an accessible and convenient destination for travelers.
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and sunscreen.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including lizards, iguanas, and burrowing owls.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Ayo Rock Formations or Hooiberg for a full day of exploring Aruba's interior.
A brief summary to Casibari Rock Formations
- G2J3+8CQ, Paradera, AW
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Car
From Oranjestad, drive northeast on Route 1, then turn right onto Route 4 towards Paradera. Follow the signs to Casibari Rock Formations. Free parking is available on site.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad and can take you directly to Casibari Rock Formations. The ride is approximately 20 minutes from the Palm Beach area. Confirm the fare before starting your trip. A taxi from Oranjestad to Casibari costs approximately $23-$25.
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Public Transport
Take the Arubus from Oranjestad to the Tamatijn stop. From there, it is still a considerable walk (approximately 2 kilometers) to reach the Casibari Rock Formations. A single bus fare is $2.60. Alternatively, from the Tamatijn stop, you can take a taxi to Casibari Rock Formations for approximately $10-$15.
