Aruba
Overview
Aruba’s uncrowded white sand beaches are second to barely any other. Benefiting from the warm climate of the Caribbean, Aruba offers an endless array of outdoor activities. Admire marine life and snorkel the breathtaking reefs of Mangel Halto or try scuba diving and explore ancient shipwrecks. Discover Aruba’s natural wonders on horseback or on a hike, or take a stroll through the island’s capital Oranjestad. It is not surprising that Aruba, with its beautiful all-inclusive resorts and endless opportunities, is the most popular holiday destination in the south Caribbean and a well-established cruise port.
Top Attractions
- year-round sunshine, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling and diving.
- Explore the historic capital city of Oranjestad, with its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, bustling markets, and landmarks like Fort Zoutman and the National Archaeological Museum.
- Visit the natural wonder of Arikok National Park, where you can hike through rugged landscapes, explore ancient caves and rock formations, and discover diverse flora and fauna native to the island.
- Discover the underwater world of Aruba with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion, where you can swim among colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and marine life like sea turtles, rays, and moray eels.
- Experience the thrill of windsurfing or kitesurfing on the windward coast of Aruba, where constant trade winds and shallow waters create ideal conditions for these adrenaline-pumping water sports.
Local Cuisine
- Indulge in the flavors of Aruban cuisine, influenced by Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin American culinary traditions, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and spicy flavors.
- Sample iconic dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese), pastechi (savory turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or seafood), and pica di papaya (papaya hot sauce), served with sides like funchi (cornmeal mush) and pan bati (cornbread).
- Try traditional Aruban snacks like kibbetjes (fried meatballs), bolita di keshi (cheese balls), and bolo preto (black cake), perfect for satisfying your cravings between meals.
- Savor refreshing beverages like Aruba Ariba (a tropical cocktail made with rum, vodka, and fruit juices), balashi (local beer), and aloe vera juice, made from the island’s indigenous aloe plants.
- Don’t forget to try local desserts like pan dushi (sweet bread), cachapas (corn pancakes), and yuana (cassava pudding), perfect for indulging your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.
Outdoor Activities
- Take a scenic hike or off-road adventure through Arikok National Park, where you can explore rugged landscapes, hidden caves, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the coastline.
- Go horseback riding along the beaches and trails of Aruba, with options for guided tours and sunset rides that offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the island’s natural beauty.
- Explore the underwater world of Aruba with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion, where you can swim among colorful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life like tropical fish, turtles, and eagle rays.
- Go sailing or kayaking along the coastline of Aruba, with opportunities for exploring hidden coves, secluded beaches, and offshore islands like De Palm Island and Renaissance Island.
- Play a round of golf on one of Aruba’s world-class golf courses, with lush fairways, stunning ocean views, and challenging holes designed to test your skills and delight your senses.
Cultural Experiences
- Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Aruba with visits to historic sites like the California Lighthouse, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and the Alto Vista Chapel.
- Explore the vibrant arts and crafts scene of Aruba, with opportunities to shop for locally made souvenirs, jewelry, and artwork at markets like the Palm Beach Plaza and the Renaissance Marketplace.
- Experience traditional Aruban music and dance performances, such as the lively rhythms of tambú and tumba, which reflect the island’s multicultural heritage and vibrant spirit.
- Discover the traditions and customs of Aruba’s indigenous Arawak people with visits to cultural sites like the Aruba Archaeological Museum and the Caiquetio Cultural Center.
- Participate in local festivals and celebrations, such as Carnival, Dia di San Juan (St. John’s Day), and Dera Gai (Harvest Festival), to experience the vibrant culture and spirit of Aruba firsthand.
