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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, secluded beaches, caves with ancient Arawak art, and unique flora and fauna. It's a must-see for nature lovers and adventurers.

A brief summary to Arikok National Park

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water, as the terrain is rugged and shade is limited.
  • A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for exploring the park's unpaved roads and reaching attractions like the Natural Pool.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and see wildlife.
  • Check the park's official website or visitor center for trail maps, guided tour information, and any alerts.
  • Respect the park's environment by staying on marked trails, not disturbing wildlife, and taking all trash with you.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Aruba's hotel zone, drive south towards Santa Cruz. Follow the main road (Route 7) towards the park's entrance. The drive is approximately 40 minutes. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the park's unpaved and rugged roads. Parking is available near the visitor center. Expect to pay an entrance fee of $22 USD per adult. Children 17 and under are free.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from the hotel zone. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride to Arikok National Park takes about 40 minutes. Expect to pay around $35 - $40 USD for a one-way trip. The entrance fee to the park is $22 USD per adult, payable at the visitor center. Children 17 and under are free.

  • Guided Tour

    Several tour operators offer guided tours to Arikok National Park, with hotel pickup and drop-off. These tours often include transportation, entrance fees, and guided exploration of the park's highlights. Prices vary depending on the tour and inclusions, ranging from $57 to $140 USD per person. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park, located on the northeastern part of Aruba, is a protected area spanning 7,907 acres (32 sq km). Established in 2000, it represents approximately 20% of Aruba's total land area. The park's name is derived from the Arawak language, meaning "mountain of stones," reflecting its rugged terrain. The park's diverse landscape includes hills of volcanic lava, quartz diorite, and limestone formations. These geological formations have influenced the island's human settlement and natural wonders. Arikok is home to several unique species, some endemic to Aruba, thriving in microclimates created by rock outcroppings. These include the cascabel (Aruban rattlesnake), santanero (Aruban cat-eyed snake), kododo blauw (Aruban whiptail lizard), shoco (Aruban burrowing owl), and prikichi (Aruban parakeet). The park also holds historical and cultural significance. Fontein Cave features pre-Columbian Arawak drawings, offering a glimpse into early human activity. More recent additions include drawings by early European settlers. Visitors can also explore historic adobe plantation houses known as Cas di torto. The remains of gold mines in the Miralamar area are also visible. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, explore caves, and discover the natural pool, Conchi. The park is divided into three zones: the North Conservation Zone (accessible by 4x4), the Central Activity Zone (along the main paved road), and the South Conservation Zone.

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