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Arikok National Park: Aruba's Natural Heart

Discover Aruba's wild side: rugged landscapes, ancient caves, and unique wildlife await in Arikok National Park.

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Arikok National Park, encompassing nearly 20% of Aruba, protects the island's diverse landscapes, geological formations, and cultural heritage. Explore rugged hills, caves adorned with ancient art, and pristine coastlines, offering a unique glimpse into Aruba's natural beauty and history.

A brief summary to Arikok National Park

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the terrain can be rugged and the Aruban sun intense.
  • Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle to navigate the park's unpaved roads, especially if you plan to visit the Natural Pool.
  • Visit the caves early in the day to avoid crowds and learn about the Arawak Indian drawings from a park ranger.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution near cliffs and rocky areas.
  • Check the Aruba Conservation Foundation's website or Instagram page for the most recent calendar of events and organized hikes.
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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. Taxi fares vary, so confirm the price before starting your journey. Expect to pay around $30 - $40 USD. Note that taxis can drop you off at the entrance, but you'll need to arrange for a return trip or have them wait, as taxi availability within the park is limited.

  • Rental Car

    From Oranjestad, drive northeast on Route 7 (Tanki Leendert) and follow the signs to Arikok National Park. The drive to the San Fuego entrance takes about 20 minutes. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to explore the Natural Pool or other off-road areas. Parking is available at the visitor center. Car rentals range from $40 - $80 USD per day.

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take the Arubus Route L6 to Maria Maai. From there, you will need to walk or take a taxi to the park entrance, as the public buses do not directly service Arikok National Park. The bus fare is approximately $3 USD. This option requires additional planning and may involve a significant walk in the heat.

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Discover more about Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park, established in 2000, covers approximately 7,907 acres (32 km²) on Aruba's northeastern side, representing nearly 20% of the island's total land area. Named after Arie Kok, a historical landowner, the park is dedicated to preserving Aruba's biodiversity, geological formations, and historical and cultural significance. The park features three primary geological formations: the Aruba lava formation, Aruba Batholith, and limestone terraces. Visitors can explore caves like Fontein Cave, adorned with pre-Columbian Arawak drawings, and Quadirikiri Cave, illuminated by natural skylights. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species like the Aruban Whiptail Lizard, Aruban Burrowing Owl (Shoco), and Aruban rattlesnake. Arikok National Park offers a variety of attractions, including the Natural Pool (Conchi), secluded beaches like Dos Playa and Boca Prins, and the remnants of gold mines at Miralamar. Hiking trails, such as the Arikok Mountain Trail, provide opportunities to experience the park's diverse terrain and panoramic views. The visitor center at the San Fuego entrance offers maps and information about the park's history and biodiversity.

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