IS HIKING REALLY POSSIBLE IN ARUBA?
When you think of a vacation in Aruba, what usually comes to mind is sun, sea, and sand, not hiking. It’s true that Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, but there’s so much more to discover, especially for hiking enthusiasts.
Few people realize that the island’s rugged northern coast offers some fantastic hiking opportunities. It’s a different way to experience Aruba and one that will leave you amazed.
Why Should You Hike in Aruba? Here are Five Healthy Reasons.
1. Hiking is healthy for your body
A century ago, people used to walk an average of 9 miles a day. Nowadays, most of us lead a sedentary lifestyle, relying on smartwatches to remind us to get in those 10,000 steps.
If you take a two-hour hike along Aruba’s North Coast, you’ll easily meet and exceed that goal. The trails here are hilly and rugged, making your brain work harder to navigate the terrain, which is beneficial for mental fitness as well.
Numerous neurological studies have shown that physical activity is good for both your body and brain. So, hiking in Aruba is not just fun but also a great way to stay healthy.
2. Experience Aruba differently by hiking
Sure, you can take long walks along Aruba’s stunning beaches, or explore the streets of Oranjestad and San Nicolas to soak up some culture. But to truly experience the island, you need to venture to the North Coast.
The rugged landscapes, beautiful vistas, and hidden spots will show you a different side of Aruba—one that feels like a blend of a lunar landscape and a Western movie set.
We’ve created an e-hiking guide featuring 10 ‘Rough Hikes’ spread across the entire North Coast. Both locals and tourists alike are amazed at the variety of nature and the unique experiences these hikes offer.
3. Hiking as a Mental Health Boost
Stress, worries, and fatigue—sometimes life just gets to be too much. Hiking in nature is a free, effective remedy to clear your mind. Long, rugged hikes have a restorative and healing effect.
Walking (or running) releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in our brains that promote a sense of well-being and happiness. Who wouldn’t want that?
Experts often talk about ‘mind wandering,’ where letting your mind roam free during a hike helps you let go of negative thoughts and gain new perspectives.
And after your hike, why not treat yourself to a healthy drink, a refreshing swim, or a soothing shower? You’ll feel fantastic!
4. Greenery Inspires During Hikes also in Aruba
Fresh ideas can come from many sources—books, videos, conversations, even while showering. But if you’ve ever experienced a ‘runner’s high,’ you know that physical activity like hiking can also bring a surge of creativity. The color green plays a role in this; it’s calming and helps foster new thoughts and inspirations.
While hiking in Aruba you will be surprised you with its greenery. The countless cacti (cadushi) give the island a greenish glow, and after a rain shower, the dry landscape quickly bursts into life. Trees and shrubs that seemed dead turn green again almost instantly.
Hiking along the North Coast of Aruba, you’ll encounter this unique ‘green’ experience, different from the greenery back home but equally inspiring.
5. Hiking Just for Fun
While there are plenty of ‘sensible’ reasons to hike, sometimes it’s just about having fun and enjoying good company. Walking together makes for easy conversation, whether with friends or new acquaintances.
We organize a monthly ‘One Happy Hike‘ in collaboration with ONE HEALTHY YOU, Aruba’s Health & Wellness Platform. These hikes usually attract 12-15 people who often don’t know each other at the start but are chatting animatedly by the end.
It’s common to see people exchanging contact details, planning future hikes or other activities together. Hiking is a social activity that brings people together, making the experience both fun and enriching.
You might spot a Wara Wara (Aruba’s largest bird of prey), a small Shoco owl (an endangered species and part of Aruba’s coat of arms), or a group of wild donkeys or goats. You’ll also encounter unique geological formations and various types of cacti. It’s fun, educational, and above all, relaxing and enjoyable.
Ready to explore the beautifull nature of the North Coast of Aruba?
Our e-guide ’10 BEST ARUBA SHORT HIKES is perfect for you. Order it directly below.
HAPPY HIKING!
