The Arikok National Park showcases three unique geological formations that helped shape the distinct island of Aruba–lava, quartz diorite and limestone. These special geological anomalies have proven effective in supporting the one-of-a-kind Aruba wildlife. Indigenous fauna and flora can be found all over the park, not-to-mention a handful of species only found in Aruba. Aruba’s rattlesnake, the cat-eyed snake, the whiptail lizard, the burrowing owl and the Aruban parakeet make Aruba’s national park a must-visit. Needless to say, such a rare environment attracts flocks of visitors from all over the world, including those on Bluegreen vacations to La Cabana.
There are plenty of things to do in Aruba and for good reason.
Arikok National Park covers roughly 20% of the entire island and offers a full day of activities. Come early in the morning to observe the animals of the island at their most active. Explore the park on foot to gain access to many walking trails and pathways that guide you through the interesting history of the island. Miralamar was once an active gold mine dating back to the beginning of the 1900s. Masiduri is another attraction in the park. Once an experimental garden in the 1950s, this site now dedicates itself to the importance of aloe cultivation. There are so many interesting destinations scattered throughout Aruba’s national park. From partially restored farms dating back fifty years to abandoned adobe structures from Aruba’s agricultural beginnings, you’re sure to enjoy an adventure back in time during your Bluegreen vacation.
Different from other attractions in Aruba,
Arikok National Park truly delivers an expansive terrain. If you take advantage of the hiking trails and spend a good portion of your day at the park, you’ll experience an all-natural desert landscape at one point and then beautifully sculpted seaside bluffs with an entirely different set of indigenous plants and animals. You can even swim in the natural pool known as Cura di Tortuga. You’ll need to get there by horseback or ATV with a tour guide, but it’s well worth it to swim in this pool at the edge of a sometimes-ferocious sea. Not far from here you’ll find Fontein Cave, complete with drawings left by Amerindians and early European settlers. A little south of the cave is Hofi Fontain (fountain garden), which is the only place on the island with a freshwater spring. Chinese immigrants once settled here because of the rich soil. Now a small museum highlights the history of this patch of land.
With so much to offer, including the Quadirikiri and Baranca Sunu caves used by Indian tribes and pirates alike, it would be a shame not to visit Arikok National Park. This is surely a special place and one of the top attractions in Aruba. So the next time you’re looking for things to do in Aruba during your Bluegreen vacation, make your first stop Arikok.
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