Breathtaking wonders: Aruba’s top natural treasures
Conchi natural pools
Conchi natural pools are on the northeast coast of the island
Discovering a natural pool is always special and surprising. As you might expect, Aruba has its own and it is just as amazing as it sounds. Known as Conchi, it features deep, tranquil turquoise waters that contrast with the roughness of the waves crashing against the surrounding rocks.
You will find these pools on the northeast coast of the island, and you can get there in two ways. The first is exclusively by high clearance 4×4 vehicles. Companies like Aruba Top Drive offer a fleet of vehicles suitable for these excursions, with rental rates ranging from $99.99 to $259.99 per day. In this case, take advantage of the map provided by the visitor center at Arikok National Park, as popular GPS services are often inaccurate and road signs are scarce.
Meanwhile, the second option involves planning a hike from locations like the Rancho parking area. This alternative is appropriate for travelers who are in good physical condition and want to enjoy the wilder, untamed terrains of Aruba. Either way, make this a day trip to bask in both the main pool and the smaller, hot-tub-like area.
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Ayo Rock Formations
The Ayo Rock Formations emerged millions of years ago
The boulders that make up the Ayo Rock Formations, located just a 15-minute drive from Oranjestad, near the town of the same name, once served the Arawaks as a tool for detecting approaching storms. Nowadays, they stand as one of Aruba’s natural wonders and draw in thousands of tourists from around the world every year.
This place is very different from the typical beach day most people expect to have on the island. It features several hiking trails and viewpoints, perfect for taking in the scenery from a new perspective and snapping a few photos. Those with plenty of time can also visit the nearby Casibari tonalite stones.
You can explore the Ayo Rock Formations on your own or by joining excursions organized by different providers. Cross Aruba Tours, for example, features a full island tour for $79 per adult, which also includes stops at the California Lighthouse, Natural Bridge, Ayo Rock Formations, and Baby Beach.
Want to access this information on the go? Check out the following guide:
Fontein Cave
Aruba’s natural wonders remain incomplete without mentioning Fontein Cave. Mysterious and cryptic, these words perfectly describe its dark interior. This attraction definitely suits the most curious explorers or those who do not mind encountering animals such as bats, crabs, insects that thrive in humid environments, and, who knows, maybe even a wild boa constrictor.
Considering it is a smaller site, travelers recommend stopping by while already inside Arikok National Park. To make your visit more interesting, do not hesitate to ask the rangers for more insights into the drawings that have decorated the walls for hundreds of years or the surrounding flora and fauna.
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Quadirikiri Cave
Bats are the most famous residents of the Quadirikiri Cave. Credits: Lesly Juarez/Unsplash
Speaking of caves, Quadirikiri is a sight to behold, with its stalagmites and stalactites jutting out of the limestone walls. Also located within Arikok National Park, the cave consists of three domes that glow when the sunlight streams through the right openings. Visitors can explore a series of enigmatic tunnels that connect the domes, where they will discover prehistoric drawings created by the island’s original inhabitants.
Among all of Aruba’s natural wonders, this one stands out as it is particularly enchanting. Not only because of its fascinating blend of mineral formations, but also because of the legend that surrounds it. The story goes that a father locked his daughter in Quadirikiri to keep her away from her lover, whom he disapproved of. The man, who was incarcerated nearby, managed to reach her. Though both of them passed away inside the cave, locals claim that their spirits were able to get out and remained united for eternity. Adventure with a pinch of romance, is not that the perfect plan?
In need of a place to stay while visiting Aruba’s natural wonders? Check out Ocean Z Boutique Hotel, a five-star accommodation located in the Noord neighborhood.
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