Aruba-7-day-itinerary
Aruba 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
Morning
- Arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
- Take a taxi or bus to your hotel (approximately 20-30 minutes)
Afternoon
- Spend the day relaxing on Palm Beach, one of Aruba’s most popular beaches
- Enjoy water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding
- Try some local cuisine at one of the many beachside restaurants
Day 2: Explore Oranjestad
Morning
- Visit Fort Zoutman, a historic fort that dates back to 1796
- Explore the National Archaeological Museum to learn about Aruba’s indigenous people
- Walk through the colorful streets of Oranjestad and admire the Dutch colonial architecture
Afternoon
- Shop for souvenirs or local crafts at the Oranjestad Market
- Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the harbor
- Visit the Butterfly Farm, home to over 40 species of butterflies
Day 3: Arikok National Park Adventure
Morning
- Drive to Arikok National Park (approximately 30 minutes)
- Hike through the park’s rugged terrain and explore the island’s natural wonders
- Visit the Guadirikiri Cave, a natural limestone cave with ancient Arawak paintings
Afternoon
- Take a guided tour of the park to learn about its unique flora and fauna
- Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s scenic viewpoints
- Explore the Fontein Cave, another natural wonder with ancient artifacts
Day 4: Baby Beach and San Nicolas
Morning
- Drive to Baby Beach (approximately 20 minutes)
- Relax on this secluded beach, known for its calm waters and powdery sand
- Snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters
Afternoon
- Visit the town of San Nicolas, once a major oil refinery hub
- Explore the colorful street art and murals that adorn the buildings
- Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants, serving up fresh seafood and international cuisine
Day 5: California Lighthouse and Palm Beach
Morning
- Drive to the California Lighthouse (approximately 20 minutes)
- Take in the stunning views of the island’s northwest coast
- Explore the lighthouse and learn about its history
Afternoon
- Return to Palm Beach for more relaxation time
- Try your hand at water sports or take a leisurely swim
- Enjoy dinner at one of the beachside restaurants
Day 6: UTV Adventure and Philip’s Animal Garden
Morning
- Take an UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) tour through Aruba’s rugged terrain (approximately 2 hours)
- Explore hidden coves, scenic vistas, and off-the-beaten-path attractions
Afternoon
- Visit Philip’s Animal Garden, a sanctuary for rescued animals
- Interact with the animals, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles
- Learn about conservation efforts on the island
Day 7: Departure
Morning
- Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring nearby attractions
- Check out of your hotel and head to the airport (approximately 20-30 minutes)
Things to Know
- Visa Requirements: Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries do not need a visa to enter Aruba. However, it’s always best to check with the Aruban government’s website for the latest requirements.
- Transportation: Taxis, buses, and rental cars are available at the airport. Many hotels also offer shuttle services.
- Currency: The Aruban florin (AWG) is the local currency, but US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted.
- Language: Dutch and Papiamento are the official languages, but many locals speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
- Safety: Aruba is generally a safe island, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Other Tips
- Be sure to try some local cuisine, including goat cheese, seafood, and fresh fruits.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Respect the island’s environment and wildlife by not littering and not touching or disturbing marine life.
- Learn some basic Papiamento phrases, such as “bon dia” (good morning) and “danki” (thank you), to show appreciation for the local culture.