Aruba is better known for beaches than trails, but the island’s rugged east side has some of the best short hikes in the Caribbean: cactus-covered hills, sand dunes, limestone cliffs, old gold-mine ruins and the Natural Pool tucked into the north coast. Here are the hikes worth doing, the guided options that take care of the heat and the route, and how to plan your morning.
- Main area
- Arikok National Park, about a fifth of the island
- Highest point
- Jamanota, about 189 m (620 ft)
- Easy classic
- Hooiberg, about 587 steps to a 360-degree view
- Guided hikes
- About $59-$115 per person
- Best time
- Sunrise or early morning, before the heat
- Cancellation
- Free up to 24 h on most bookings
Top-rated Aruba hiking tours
The best hikes in Aruba
| Effort | Best for | |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Pool hike (Arikok) | Moderate to hard; rough, rocky and hot | A swim in the Natural Pool without the jeep crowds |
| Arikok National Park trails | Easy to strenuous; several marked trails | Caves, dunes, cliffs and gold-mine ruins |
| Jamanota | Moderate | The highest point on the island and wide views |
| Hooiberg | Easy to moderate; about 587 steps | A quick climb with a view of the whole island |
| Alto Vista coast walk | Easy | Sunset walks along the wild north coast from the chapel |
The most-booked hiking tours right now
- Private Aruba National Park Hiking and Natural Pool Swimming (about $60, 5 stars from more than 160 reviews). A private guided hike through Arikok with a swim in the Natural Pool.
- Sunrise Hike and Swim in the Natural Pool (about $59, 4.9 stars, 120+ reviews). Starts early to beat the heat and the jeep tours.
- Half Day Hike at Arikok National Park and Snorkel (about $115, 5 stars). A hike plus a snorkel stop.
- Arikok Sunrise Hiking Tour to the Natural Pool with Transportation (about $110, 4.9 stars). Includes hotel pickup.
- Aruba Downtown Historic and Cultural Walking Tour (about $39, 4.8 stars, 670+ reviews). An easy walking tour of Oranjestad if you want history instead of hills.
Prices and ratings are what the tours were listing at the time of writing; the live price is on each tour card above.
Hiking to the Natural Pool
The Natural Pool (Conchi) sits on Arikok’s rocky north coast, and most visitors reach it by jeep safari. Hiking in is possible but the terrain is rough and exposed, with little shade, so a guided sunrise hike is the safest way to do it: the guide knows the route, you finish before the midday heat, and you have the pool before the jeeps arrive. If you would rather ride, compare jeep tours; note that UTVs and ATVs are not allowed in the park.
Arikok National Park basics
Arikok National Park covers roughly 20% of Aruba and has several marked trails, from short easy loops to strenuous climbs. Stop at the visitor center at the entrance for maps and trail updates, since routes can change after heavy rain. The park charges an entrance fee and opens in the morning; check the park’s website for current fees and hours before you go.
Hiking tips for Aruba
- Start early. By late morning the sun is fierce and there is very little shade.
- Carry more water than you think: at least a litre per person, more for longer hikes.
- Wear closed shoes. Trails are rocky, and cacti grow close to the paths.
- Use a hat and reef-safe sunscreen. Aruba bans sunscreens with oxybenzone.
- Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the caves.
- Stay on marked trails and tell someone your plan if you hike without a guide.
Pair it with
After a morning in Arikok, cool off at Baby Beach on the southern tip, or end the day with sunset at the California Lighthouse. More sights in our Aruba landmarks guide.
🌴 Rather go private? ISLA’s private jeep tours visit the Natural Pool, caves and hidden beaches with just your group, hotel pick-up included and no time limits. Private tours from $399 →
