Eco-Tourism in Aruba

Aruba is a Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela. I’d never heard of the little Dutch-owned island of Aruba until just recently – but though it’s unbeknown to many of us Brits, it’s a popular holiday destination Dutch and for American couples and honeymooners. The island has year-round sunshine, turquoise seas, colonial Dutch architecture and a Latin vibe. Aruba sounds great, right?

Where is Aruba

Aruba is an island in the Southern Caribbean sea. It’s located 18 miles from the Venezuelan coast. The island is a great destination to visit as a couple and has activities suitable for all types of travellers.

Eco-Tourism in Aruba

Aruba is even more special thanks to its eco-efforts. The island of Aruba is an awesome destination for eco-travellers and nature loving couples. The island is brimming with natural beauty, rugged coastlines, white-sand beaches and cool rock formations. Here are some of the best eco-tourism attractions in Aruba:

Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park is considered a natural wonder and an environmental sanctuary. The national park covers 18% of the island and is home to some unique plant and animal species which can only be found on Aruba, including various indigenous reptiles and the Aruban Burrowing Owl.

Geology lovers are in luck too. Arikok National Park also has incredible geological formations. These include the Aruba lava formation, a quartz diorite formation, and a limestone formation. Various hiking trails extend through the park so eco-travellers can admire the rock formations and wildlife.

Photo credit: Alberto

Aruba Natural Pool

A unique rock formation of volcanic stone circles on Aruba’s coast has formed a natural pool, known by locals as “conchi” or “Cura di Tortuga,”. The secluded pool is only accessible by crossing rugged terrain making it a hidden gem that only intrepid explorers can reach.

Aruba Turtle Conservation

Turtle nesting takes place in Aruba at Eagle Beach. Four species of sea turtles nest on Aruba: The Leatherback, the Loggerhead, the Green and the Hawksbill. However, the sea turtle population is fragile. A local foundation called Turtugaruba run a sea turtle protection programme in Aruba.

Aruba Reef Care Project

The Aruba Reef Care Project is the island’s largest volunteering activity. Every September Aruba locals and visiting tourists participate in a clean-up of Aruba’s beaches and snorkelling and diving sites. The initiative aims to raise awareness of keeping a clean marine environment.

Aruba Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is a volunteer-run foundation that takes in sick and injured animals. Before cars, donkeys were the main mode of transport on the island. The Donkey Sanctuary now provides a home and cares for the animals.

Images licensed by the Aruba Tourism Authority, aruba.com

Active Adventures

Aruba is rich outdoor activities that allow travellers to enjoy nature whilst being active. Activities include yoga, paddle boarding, kite surfing and windsurfing.

Images licensed by the Aruba Tourism Authority, aruba.com

How to Get to Aruba

From the UK, you can get to Aruba from 16 different airports including London Gatwick. Flights are with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and go via Amsterdam Schiphol. 

Learn more about Aruba

Learn more about the island of Aruba on the Aruba Tourism website and by checking out the #onehappyisland hashtag.