Hooiberg: Aruba's Iconic Haystack Mountain
Climb Aruba's iconic Hooiberg for panoramic views and a rewarding workout. A must-see landmark offering breathtaking scenery and a unique perspective.
Hooiberg, meaning 'haystack' in Dutch, is a distinctive 541-foot volcanic formation at the heart of Aruba. A well-maintained staircase with approximately 587 steps leads to the summit, rewarding climbers with panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking exercise and stunning vistas.
A brief summary to Hooiberg
- Oranjestad, AW
Local tips
- Hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The temperatures are cooler and the lighting is ideal for photos.
- Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. The climb can be challenging, so stay hydrated and protect your feet.
- Take your time and utilize the gazebo halfway up to rest. Enjoy the views along the way.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the summit.
- Be aware that the parking area is unsupervised, so avoid leaving valuables in your car.
Getting There
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Walking
From central Oranjestad, Hooiberg is approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) away. Head east, following main roads, and look for signs directing you towards Hooiberg. The walk will take you roughly one hour. There are no specific costs involved in walking.
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Public Transport
From the central bus station in Oranjestad (Caya G.F. Betico Croes - Pasteurstraat), take the Arubus N.V. bus towards Santa Cruz. The bus ride to the 'Caya' stop near Hooiberg takes about 4 minutes and departs hourly. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the base of Hooiberg. A single bus fare is approximately $2.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad. A taxi ride to Hooiberg from the city center typically takes 10-15 minutes. The fare can range from $15 to $25, depending on traffic.
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Driving
From Oranjestad, driving to Hooiberg is straightforward. Follow Route 1 east, then turn towards Hooiberg. The drive is about 10 minutes from Oranjestad. There is a designated parking area at the base of the mountain. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking area is unsupervised.
Discover more about Hooiberg
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Unmissable attractions to see
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