Aruba, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, is home to a hidden gem that often gets overshadowed by its sun-kissed shores: Arikok National Park. Covering nearly 20% of the island, this breathtaking sanctuary offers a unique glimpse into Aruba's rich biodiversity and geological wonders. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to explore Aruba's natural beauty, Arikok National Park is a must-visit destination. In this blog post, I'll share our family's visit to the park and what made it such a memorable experience!
Getting There: We rented a Jeep to visit the park, but I'm told you don't need one to reach any of the destinations we visited. The park is accessible by regular vehicles, though having a 4x4 does provide more flexibility to explore.
Entry Requirements: A conservation pass is required for entry into the park and costs $22 per adult. Children 17 and under are free. The fees go toward preservation of the park, educational programs, and protecting the animals that roam freely throughout the 7,907 acres.
Hours: The park is open from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm daily. I recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and make the most of your visit.
One of the most striking features of Arikok National Park is its incredibly diverse terrain. From rugged limestone cliffs and rolling hills to arid desert landscapes dotted with cacti and sandy beaches, the park offers a variety of environments all within close proximity. This makes it unlike any other location in Aruba!
You'll encounter iconic Fofoti trees with their distinctive windswept appearance, towering cacti, and dramatic volcanic rock formations that neighbor silky soft-sand beaches. The contrasting textures create a photographer's paradise and provide endless opportunities for exploration.
No visit to Arikok National Park would be complete without exploring the fascinating Quadirikiri and Fontein Caves. These natural caves are not only geological wonders but also hold significant historical and cultural importance.
Quadirikiri Cave, renowned for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, features ancient Arawak Indian rock carvings that offer a glimpse into the island's early inhabitants. The cave is famous for its two chambers, illuminated by sunlight streaming through holes in the roof, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. The cave extends for about 100 feet, and in the darker portions, hundreds of harmless bats make their home.
My son absolutely loved the caves! He used the flashlight on our iPhones to explore and search for small lizards and bats, which he did find. It was a thrilling adventure for him to feel like a real explorer.
Fontein Cave, on the other hand, is famous for its well-preserved petroglyphs and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Spanning about 95 meters (almost 312 feet), this cave is brimming with stalagmites and stalactites. The walls feature fascinating algae that create a gradient from yellow to green, and most importantly, ancient drawings and etchings made by the Amerindians.
Pro tip: The park rangers at the cave entrances often provide tours and share interesting information about the rock drawings and nature's artwork. Their insights really enhanced our experience and brought the history to life.
After a day of exploration, Dos Playa awaits to provide the perfect backdrop for stunning views and a relaxing afternoon. This secluded beach, located within Arikok National Park, translates to "Two Beaches" in Papiamento—a pair of bordering coves carved out of the island's limestone by powerful waves over thousands of years.
Unlike the bustling beaches of Aruba's west coast, Dos Playa offers a more tranquil, unspoiled experience. The turquoise waters and golden sands create picture-perfect scenery that makes you feel like you're on your own private beach. It's the ideal setting for those looking to find a unique and relaxing getaway in a picturesque setting.
Important safety note: While the views are spectacular, I do not recommend swimming at Dos Playa due to the strong currents and undertow. The heavy surf is suited for experienced surfers and body boarders only. However, it's absolutely perfect for walking along the surf, beachcombing, and photography.
My daughter thoroughly enjoyed walking along the surf and searching for treasures washed up by the waves. Don't expect facilities or services here—just take in natural beauty at its best.
To get the most out of your visit to Arikok National Park, consider these tips:
Arikok National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from its breathtaking terrain and dramatic coastlines to its captivating caves with ancient rock art and tranquil beaches. Whether you're hiking the trails, exploring the fascinating history within Quadirikiri and Fontein Caves, or relaxing at Dos Playa beach while the kids search for shells, your visit to this extraordinary park will leave you with lasting memories of Aruba's unique beauty.
This protected sanctuary represents the wild side of Aruba—a side that complements the island's famous beaches perfectly. It's proof that Aruba offers so much more than just sun and sand, making it a truly special Caribbean destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
