Background

Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins: A Glimpse into Aruba's Gold Rush Past

Explore Aruba's Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins: a historic landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the island's gold rush past.

4.5

Explore the historic Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins on Aruba's rugged northern coast, remnants of a 19th-century gold smelting operation. These weathered stone walls offer a striking glimpse into the island's gold rush era, set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Bushiribana Ruins

  • H23F+C9F, Noord, AW

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid the midday heat.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain around the ruins can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities available on-site.
  • Respect the ruins and surrounding area; take your litter with you to help maintain the site's beauty.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    From Noord, head south on Route 1 (L.G. Smith Boulevard). Continue until you see signs for the Bushiribana Ruins. Turn right onto the road leading to the ruins. Parking is available near the site. Note that the road may turn into a dirt road as you approach the ruins.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Noord. A taxi ride to Bushiribana Ruins from Noord typically costs around $15-$20 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi will take you directly to the ruins.

Unlock the Best of Bushiribana Ruins

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bushiribana Ruins

The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins stand as a testament to Aruba's fleeting but significant gold rush in the 19th century. Erected in 1872 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company, the mill processed gold ore extracted from nearby mines. The location was chosen due to the high concentration of gold found in the area. The mill harnessed the power of strong ocean winds to crush stone and isolate gold ore. A smelter on-site processed the ore into fine gold, which was then transported to a nearby harbor for export. Although the gold mill operated for only about ten years, its solid construction has allowed the ruins to endure for over a century. Today, visitors can freely explore the site, walking through the stone walls and arches that once housed the smelting works. The ruins offer panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the rugged Aruban coastline. The juxtaposition of the weathered stonework against the vibrant blue sea creates a stunning visual contrast, making it a popular spot for photographers. The surrounding landscape is characterized by arid terrain dotted with cacti and wild shrubs. Visitors can climb the surrounding hills for elevated views of the coastline and ruins. The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins provide an enriching experience, blending history, natural beauty, and a sense of adventure.

Popular Experiences near Bushiribana Ruins

Popular Hotels near Bushiribana Ruins

Select Currency