Bubali Bird Sanctuary: A Tranquil Oasis for Birdwatchers

4.3 (566)

Discover Aruba's serene side: a haven for migratory birds and nature lovers, just steps from Palm Beach.

Home
Aruba
Pos Chiquito
Bubali Bird Sanctuary

The Bubali Bird Sanctuary in Aruba is a 20-hectare wetland area that provides a safe haven for over 80 species of migratory birds. Located near Palm Beach, it features interconnected man-made ponds, an observation tower, and diverse birdlife, making it a unique spot for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Bubali Bird Sanctuary

HX62+MPJ, Noord, AW
Click to display

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best birdwatching opportunities and cooler temperatures.
Bring binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience and a camera to capture the stunning wildlife.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on nature trails, as some areas may be muddy.
Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
Check local guidelines for any seasonal variations in bird populations to optimize your visit.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Old Dutch Windmill

The Old Dutch Windmill: A Piece of Holland in Aruba

Mirador de Palm Beach

Breathtaking Views at Mirador de Palm Beach

De Palm Pier

De Palm Pier: Your Gateway to Aruba's Wonders

Getting There

Walking

From the Palm Beach area, walk north along Palm Beach Road until you reach L.G. Smith Boulevard. Turn right onto L.G. Smith Boulevard and continue for about 15 minutes. After passing the Aruba Aloe Factory, the Bubali Bird Sanctuary entrance will be on your right. There is no admission fee.
Public Transport

From Oranjestad, take the Arubus bus towards Palm Beach. The bus departs every 5 minutes and the ride takes approximately 13 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Aruba Aloe Factory. Walk back about 200 meters along L.G. Smith Boulevard to find the sanctuary entrance on your right. A one-way bus fare is approximately $2.60 USD (4.50 Florin).
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Aruba. A taxi from the high-rise hotel area to Bubali Bird Sanctuary is a short ride. Taxi fares in Aruba are fixed, with a minimum fare of $7 USD. The final cost will depend on your exact starting point. There may be a surcharge of $3 USD for travel on Sundays, holidays, or between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

Discover more about Bubali Bird Sanctuary

The Bubali Bird Sanctuary, located a short distance from the bustling Palm Beach resort area in Noord, Aruba, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Established in 1980, the sanctuary spans approximately 20 hectares (49 acres) and encompasses a man-made wetland area that serves as a crucial resting and breeding ground for over 80 species of migratory birds. The sanctuary's origins are tied to the adjacent water treatment facility, which empties into two interconnected ponds. These ponds have become a lush oasis, attracting a diverse array of birdlife, including herons, egrets, gulls, skimmers, coots, and ducks. BirdLife International recognizes the sanctuary as an Important Bird Area (IBA) due to its significance for threatened and restricted-range species. Visitors can observe the birds from an observation tower on the north side of the sanctuary, providing a bird's-eye view of the area. The surrounding vegetation also supports various nesting species, including white-tailed nightjars, yellow warblers, burrowing owls, ruby-topaz hummingbirds, and bananaquits. The sanctuary's peaceful ambiance and well-maintained trails make it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and photography. While the sanctuary faced a fire in 2018 that destroyed 24% of its area, it has since recovered and continues to be a vital habitat for Aruba's bird populations.