Top 4 Things to Do and See in Santa Cruz and the Inland Region of Aruba

Aruba is a beautiful Caribbean island known for its sunny weather all year long. Away from the bustling coastal areas, the town of Santa Cruz offers a peaceful escape into the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. While there aren’t a large number of activities in this area, the few available are absolutely worth a visit. Let’s explore the 4 best things to do and see in Santa Cruz and the inland region of Aruba:

  1. Hooiberg Hiking Trail
  2. Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations
  3. Donkey Sanctuary
  4. Arikok National Park

1

Hooiberg Hiking Trail

Aruba doesn’t offer a lot of hiking options or sporty nature activities which makes  Hooiberg an even bigger must-do. As the island’s second-highest peak, it provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, coastline, and even neighboring islands. The name Hooiberg, which means “haystack” in Dutch, is a reference to its shape, and it’s considered a significant landmark on the island. While the trail consists of around 587 steps, it’s not a strenuous hike since you can take your time going up. On average, the climb takes 30 to 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on your physical abilities. Locals and visitors alike use this trail as a popular workout spot.

Location: Near the center of Aruba, easily accessible by car from anywhere on the island.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

What to bring: Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and wear a hat as there’s little shade on the trail.

2

Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations

The Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations are another great way to enjoy some light exercise, all while soaking in Aruba’s unique landscape. These towering rock clusters are not only beautiful but also hold cultural and historical significance. The Ayo Rock Formations were once a sacred site for the island’s indigenous Arawak people, who used the rocks as canvases for their petroglyphs. While climbing the formations, you might still spot some ancient carvings, offering a glimpse into Aruba’s past. The Casibari Rock Formations, located nearby, provide a similar experience with stunning views from the top.

These formations stand in stark contrast to Aruba’s otherwise flat landscape and offer great opportunities for photography. The climb is easy and suitable for all ages, and even the views along the way are worth the trip.

Location: Between Santa Cruz and Paradera, about 10-15 minutes by car from Oranjestad.

Best time to visit: Late afternoon when the light is best for photography.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes with good grip are recommended, as the rocks can be slippery. Don’t forget your camera for stunning photo opportunities.

Stay connected! Follow us on social media for exclusive content & updates on our travels.

On our website, you’ll find all the essential information and tips, while on our social media, you’ll get even more – including personal experiences, funny moments, stunning videos, and much more!

3

Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is a heartwarming place that provides a safe haven for abandoned and injured donkeys. Donkeys were brought to Aruba by Spanish settlers in the 1400s to be used as work animals for transportation. However, with the modernization of the island, donkeys were no longer needed and many were abandoned. The sanctuary was established to care for these animals and now plays a critical role in protecting Aruba’s donkey population. By visiting the sanctuary, you’re supporting its mission of providing care and refuge to these animals.

It’s also a wonderful opportunity to interact with the donkeys, learn their individual stories, and get to know their personalities. While the entrance is free, donations are welcome to help support the sanctuary’s efforts. Though I didn’t have the chance to visit the sanctuary during my trip, I was lucky enough to spot wild donkeys. If I could go back, I would definitely visit the sanctuary and make a donation to support their important work.

Location: On the outskirts of Santa Cruz, accessible by car.

Best time to visit: Morning or early afternoon before it gets too hot.

What to bring: Consider bringing a small donation, and don’t forget your camera for some great donkey interactions.

4

Arikok National Park

One of the most beautiful places in Aruba, Arikok National Park covers a large portion of the inland region, including the Santa Cruz area. The park is rich in history, with its ancient cave paintings, indigenous rock art, and the ruins of old plantation houses that give a glimpse into the island’s past. Additionally, it’s home to unique wildlife and plant species, some of which are endemic to the island. Some of the park’s highlights include the Fontein Cave, with its Arawak petroglyphs, the Conchi Natural Pool, and Dos Playa, a secluded beach that’s perfect for nature lovers.

While admission fees are required, the park offers so many incredible sights that it’s worth every penny. There’s so much to see and do that the park really deserves its own article.

What’s Next?

While I gave you a glimpse of what the Arikok National Park has to offer, to properly plan your visit, you should now take a look at our Ultimate Guide to Visiting Arikok National Park, Aruba (2024) and the Top Things to Do and See at Arikok National Park, Aruba.

Also, if it’s not already done, you should go to the beginning of your planning and find out everything you need to know about Aruba with our Aruba Travel Guide.

Don’t want to miss out on our latest articles? Be sure to subscribe to our website, and you’ll receive a notification every time we publish something new!