A must-do for your trip
Apart from staying at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel when you come to Aruba, the one thing you must check off your to-do list is visiting Arikok National Park. This is a protected area that covers approximately 20% of the island’s total land area.
It encompasses a variety of landscapes, including desert-like terrain, rugged hills, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches. The national park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including cacti, birds, lizards, and other wildlife.
There’s a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. Some of the most notable species include the Aruban Whiptail Lizard, the Aruban Burrowing Owl, and the Aruban Rattlesnake.
You can come to Arikok National Park and explore its natural wonders by hiking on its many trails and swimming in its natural pools and beaches. You can also learn about the island’s history and culture at the park’s visitor center.
The Park´s History
The idea of this national park started in the late sixties. Afterward, in the eighties, part of this plan was developed, which resulted in the creation of Cunucu Arikok. In 1995, the Aruban government continued developing the park for years to come.
Arikok National Park was established in 2000 with the goal of protecting and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Aruba. The park is managed by the Arikok National Park Foundation, a non-profit organization that works to promote conservation and tourism.
Arikok´s Attractions
One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Natural Pool, also known as “Conchi” in the local language. This secluded swimming hole is surrounded by rugged cliffs and can only be reached by foot or by horseback.
Another popular destination is the Quadirikiri Cave, which features two large chambers with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Also, it’s home to several species of bats and is a popular spot for photography and exploration.
Moreover, Arikok National Park is home to several cultural and historical sites. The park’s visitor center features exhibits on the island’s indigenous culture and colonial history, and visitors can also explore the remains of several old gold mines and settlements.
Boca Prins is another of the attractions you can find in this park. It’s a scenic beach located on the northern coast of the park, featuring rugged cliffs, sand dunes, and crashing waves. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the coastline, taking in the stunning views, or simply sunbathing.
Available Guided Tours
There are several guided tours available for visitors who want to explore this Caribbean island. These can provide a more in-depth and educational experience, as well as access to areas of the park that may be more difficult to reach on your own.
The Arikok National Park Foundation offers several guided tours led by experienced guides who can provide insights into the park’s natural and cultural history.
Natural Pool Jeep Safari: This tour takes you on a scenic drive through the park. It includes stops at several of the park’s most popular destinations, including the Natural Pool, the Quadirikiri Caves, and the Fontein Cave.
Aruba Cultural Jeep Safari: This tour focuses on the island’s cultural heritage. It includes visits to several historic sites within the park. Alto Vista Chapel, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and the Natural Bridge are a few of the stops included in the tour.
Hiking Tour: This tour will take you on a guided hike through the park’s rugged terrain, providing opportunities to see the park’s diverse flora and fauna up close.
Apart from the tours offered by the Arikok National Park Foundation, there are several private operators on the island that offer tours of Arikok National Park. Read on to discover them.
Private Tours
If you want your Aruba trip to be a more tailored experience, there are several private tours of the park that you can go on. These are more catered to the specific interests and needs of individual visitors.
Aruba Nature Adventures: This tour operator specializes in eco-friendly tours that focus on sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. They offer a half day at Arikok National Park, including hiking tours and birdwatching tours.
De Palm Tours: This is one of the largest tour operators on the island and offers a variety of Arikok National Park tours, including Jeep safaris, hiking tours, and photography tours. Prices range from $69 to $229.
ABC Tours Aruba: ABC offers a variety of tours that explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Aruba, including several tours of Arikok National Park. Prices rank from $103 to $600.
Whether you want your beach vacation to be filled with hiking, swimming, wildlife spotting, or history and culture, Arikok National Park is definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in Aruba.
No matter if you choose to explore the park with a knowledgeable guide or by yourself, you must include a visit to this fantastic place in your vacation itinerary.
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