Aruba Travel Guide (Caribbean/North America)

Introduction to Aruba

Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Aruba is a small island paradise known for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and year-round sunshine. The island is just 20 miles long and 6 miles wide, making it easy to explore in a short time.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, Aruba has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top things to see and do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Aruba

Aruba’s small size means that you can cover much of the island in just a few days. The following are some of the must-see places to visit while you’re in Aruba:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum - Learn about the history of aloe vera and see how it’s harvested and processed.
Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower - Visit the oldest building in Aruba, built by Dutch settlers to protect the island.
Archaeological Museum of Aruba - Discover the island’s indigenous Arawak culture and see ancient artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Aruba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Arikok National Park - Explore this protected area covering almost 20% of the island, with hiking trails, caves, and stunning viewpoints.
California Lighthouse - Climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
Baby Beach - Relax on the calm waters and white sand of this picturesque beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aruba

Hiking and biking are popular outdoor activities in Aruba, with a range of trails and routes to suit all abilities. Some of the best include:

Hooiberg - Climb the 563 steps to the top of this volcanic hill for a stunning panoramic view of the island.
Cactus and Casibari Rock Formations - Discover the unique rock formations and cacti of Aruba on a hike through these natural wonders.
Hadicurari Trail - This coastal trail takes you through desert landscapes and along rocky cliffs, offering spectacular views of the ocean.

Best Things to Do in Aruba: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Aruba offers a wide range of things to do and experience. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

Snorkeling and Diving - Explore the rich marine life and coral reefs of Aruba with a guided tour.
Off-Road Safari - Experience the rugged terrain of the island on a 4x4 adventure through Arikok National Park.
Windsurfing and Kitesurfing - Aruba is known for its consistent trade winds, making it a world-class destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aruba

If you have a week to spend on the island, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1-2: Check out the natural attractions, including Arikok National Park, California Lighthouse, and the unique rock formations.

Day 3-4: Immerse yourself in Aruba’s culture and history with visits to Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum, Fort Zoutman, and the Archaeological Museum of Aruba.

Day 5-6: Indulge in some adventure with snorkeling, windsurfing, or an off-road safari.

Day 7: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Aruba and soak up the sunshine before heading home.

Food and Drink Scene of Aruba

Aruba’s food scene is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage, featuring influences from Dutch, Spanish, African, and South American cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

Keshi yena - Spiced chicken or beef filling, wrapped in melted cheese
Pan bati - A thick, pancake-like bread that is a staple of Aruban cuisine
Stoba - A hearty stew typically made with goat meat, chicken, or fish

Local Beverages

Aruba Ariba - A fruity cocktail made with rum and banana liqueur
Balashi Beer - Aruba’s national beer, brewed locally for over 60 years
Coconut water - Freshly harvested and served straight from the coconut

Where to Stay in Aruba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aruba offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, including luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels.

Palm Beach - This area is home to Aruba’s most luxurious resorts, including the Ritz-Carlton and the Hyatt Regency.
Oranjestad - The capital of Aruba has a variety of affordable hotels and guesthouses to choose from.
San Nicolas - For a more authentic Aruban experience, consider staying in this colorful, historic town on the southern coast.

What to Buy in Aruba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Aruba has a range of locally crafted souvenirs and products to take home as mementos of your trip, including:

Hand-painted ceramics - Aruba is known for its vibrant and colorful pottery
Aloe vera products - Made from the island’s abundant aloe vera plants, these products are great for your skin
Aruban rum - Locally produced rum is a popular souvenir for visitors

Local Culture and Customs of Aruba

Aruba’s culture is a mix of African, European, and indigenous Arawak influences. The island is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who often greet visitors with a warm smile and a “Bon Bini” (welcome).

English, Dutch, and Papiamento (a Creole language) are the official languages of Aruba, but many locals also speak Spanish.

Best Time to Visit Aruba

Aruba has a warm and sunny climate year-round, with temperatures averaging 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The best time to visit is between April and August, when the weather is dry and the ocean is calm.

Keep in mind that the island can get crowded during peak season, so plan accordingly if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aruba

Do:

Try the local cuisine and sample the island’s rum and beer.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Aruba’s beaches.
Respect the island’s customs, including dress codes for religious sites.

Don’t:

Litter or damage the island’s natural beauty.
Forget to pack sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.
Leave valuables unattended on the beach.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aruba

Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, visitors should still exercise caution and common sense, especially when in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Aruba

Aruba has a well-developed healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics available on the island. It’s recommended that visitors purchase travel insurance and bring any necessary medications or prescriptions from home.

Getting to Aruba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aruba

Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is the main airport serving Aruba, with direct flights from the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Aruba

There are no traditional bus systems on the island, but shared minibusses known as “diablos rojos” are available for transportation.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available on the island for those looking for more flexibility and independence.

How to Get Around in Aruba

Aruba is small and easy to navigate, with a good network of roads and highways. Driving is on the right side of the road and requires a valid driver’s license.

Buses, diablos rojos, and taxis are alternative options for getting around the island.

Where to Go Next from Aruba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aruba’s central location in the Caribbean makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby destinations and islands.

Curacao - Just 50 miles away, this Dutch-Caribbean island offers a unique blend of European and Caribbean culture.
Venezuela - 20 miles south of Aruba lies the South American nation of Venezuela, where you can explore the vibrant cities of Caracas or Maracaibo.

Conclusion

Aruba may be a small island, but it packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. From its breathtaking natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, Aruba offers a unique and unforgettable vacation experience. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your perfect trip to this Caribbean paradise.