Things to do in Aruba: excursions and activities

Top 6 things to do in Aruba

With the most days of sunshine and the least rainfall in the southern Caribbean, Aruba is a banker for good holiday weather. Then there’s an average temperature of 27°C and pleasant trade winds. It’s got the lot. Can you ask for more? Well, Aruba has it in ladles. This small island has endless beaches, a world-famous diving scene, wild volcanic landscapes and picture-postcard pastel-coloured Dutch colonial architecture. Plus, it’s popular with flamingos, who know a good thing when they see it.

1. Arikok National Park

If you like adventure, an excursion to Arikok National Park is a must. You’ll discover the rugged side of Aruba, with cacti, limestone rocks and almost-horizontal trees, which have been completely bent by the trade winds. An obligatory stop during any 4x4 tour of the park is the natural pool, known locally as ‘Conchi’. Surrounded by rocks, it has gin-clear ocean water.

2. Discover the island’s caves

Another popular attraction in Aruba are its caves. The Fontein Cave has rock paintings drawn more than 1,000 years ago by the extinct aboriginal Caquetio people. While the Guadirikiri Cave is famed for its two chambers, which are lit by the sunlight that enters through holes in the roof. The dark part of the cave is home to hundreds of harmless bats.

3. Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital

The island’s capital and largest town is an intriguing blend of styles. Old Oranjestad huddles around the harbour and boasts an Instagrammable collection of colourful colonial-era building. There are historic sites such as Fort Zoutman and the recently restored town hall. The newer, more international city boasts luxury boutiques, chic restaurants and exclusive nightlife venues. And a lovely little activity to try out is a trip on one of the open-sided retro trams that loop around the old town.

4. Water activities

Snuba diving is one of the most popular water activities on the island. It’s a combination of snorkelling and diving – and, best of all, it doesn’t require heavy equipment. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll get to swim among the tropical fish. And if you prefer something more chilled out, go on a catamaran cruise and enjoy the views with a cocktail in hand. Or step aboard a submarine and see the coral reefs, old shipwrecks and schools of fish that surround Aruba.

5. The Old Dutch Mill

A special attraction is the typical Dutch windmill at Palm Beach. It stands out in the tropical landscape and is a reminder of the island’s four centuries of links to the Netherlands. Originally located in Friesland, the mill was moved to Aruba in the 1960s.

6. Bubali Bird Sanctuary

Opposite the windmill is the Bubali bird sanctuary. This wetland is an important resting and breeding place for many bird species. The reserve is not only home to local birds, but also provides a pit stop for more than 80 species of migratory birds. The reserve consists of two freshwater lakes, and there’s also a watchtower from where you can observe these exotic birds.