Top 10 Places to go in Aruba
Aruba
It belongs to the ABC islands of the Lesser Antilles. Aruba has a population of 119,428 (2020) inhabitants and with an area of 180 km² it is about the same size as the Dutch Wadden island Texel. The island is quite dry, with little of the lush tropical vegetation common in the Caribbean. Read more about Aruba.
Top 10 Places to go in Aruba
Despite the fact that the island is not so large, there are more than enough places that you must have seen.
In this top 10 I look at places where I think it is worthwhile to have been to them at least once. In this list, I only discuss places where you can go for free. There are no beaches mentioned in this list, which are highlighted in another top 10 click here. So let’s get started.
I lived in Aruba for half a year. From my experience, I made this Top 10 places to go in Aruba, guide. If you want to know more about that, check out my page about Aruba or click here
10. Alto Vista Chapel
The Alto Vista Chapel is located on the east side of the island. At this place you can walk very nicely. For example, the Alto Vista Trail or the Hofi Hawei Trail are very nice hikes to make. If you go here it is also nice to do that with a Quad or ATV. This way you can immediately see more of the east side of the island.
9. Hooiberg
The Hooiberg is 167 meters high and can be seen from anywhere on the island. The stairs of 587 steps take you to the top of the haystack. This is quite a climb with the climate on Aruba. But once you are at the top you can enjoy the beautiful view over the island. The Haystack is also used by locals for sports. So if you are looking for a challenge conquer these 587 steps then a few times in a row.
8. Balashi Gold Mine Geldings
In 1824 gold was discovered for the first time in Aruba. This caused a gold rush where everyone was looking for gold. Several gold mines were also built, including this one in Balashi. They build the gold mill on the highest point of the Spanish Lagoon. A picturesque area where you can see so much more than just this gold mine. Very nice for a long walk.
7. Ayo Rock Formations
The Arowakken, the first settlers of the island, made petroglyphs on this rock formation. It was seen by the Arowakken as a holy place. You can take a nice walk here or climb the rock. Very nice place to have been at least once. From the top of the rock you have a beautiful view of the Hooiberg.
6. Spanish Lagoon
Nice to combine with the Balashi Goldmine Geldings. In this picturesque environment, you will encounter special flora and fauna. Enjoy a special piece of nature on Aruba. Take a walk on the Spanish Lagoon Trail and be surprised by this part of Aruba.
5. Natural Bridge
This natural bridge unfortunately collapsed on September 2, 2005. It was the longest natural bridge in the Caribbean. It had a length of no less than 30 meters and was 7 meters high. The remains are still a tourist attraction. On the way, there are several small natural bridges to admire.
4. Oranjestad Hotels
Of course, you can’t have been to Aruba without been in Oranjestad. With its old nostalgic buildings. The train where you can see the city from a different image is of course not to be missed. Oranjestad is located on the Paardenbaai. The original name of Oranjestad (Playa Caballos) comes from this.
3. Bubali Bird Sanctuary
In Bubali bird sanctuary live more than 80 species of migrating birds. From the Bubali watchtower you have a birdseye view of the sanctuary. Come to yourself and enjoy the animals around you. Walking distance from the Highrise hotels.
2. California Lighthouse
The California Lighthouse is located at the northernmost point of the island. From here you can start a tour with a 4X4. Or just enjoy the view. There is also a delicious Italian restaurant. Hiking in this area is also beautiful. For example, walk to Westpunt (Boca). Here you can see the water violence that is only present on the north and east sides of the island.
1. San Nicolas
In San Nicolas they have the most amazing restaurants. But the reason why you want to go here is the beautiful street art. Everywhere in San Nicolas they can be found, one even more beautiful than the other. If you are on the island in February, you should not miss the Caribbean carnival in this town.
