Arikok Sunrise Hike to Natural Pool: Snorkel in a hidden gem
Hike to Natural Pool at first light and swim in a volcanic crater the ocean carved
A private sunrise hiking tour in Arikok National Park on Aruba that takes you to Natural Pool, a secluded basin of rock and seawater formed over thousands of years. You hike down through beach dunes to Daimari Beach, pass through Sea Grape Forest and along Moro Beach, then reach the Natural Pool where you snorkel and swim before returning via a ridge trail overlooking the north coast.
Options for this experience
2 optionsStep-by-step itinerary
Sunrise hike to Natural Pool
- Start tour at Arikok National Park
- Hike past beach dunes to Daimari Beach
- Visit Sea Grape Forest before Moro Beach
- Continue hiking to Moro Beach
- Arrive at Natural Pool for snorkeling and swimming
- Visit baby Natural Bridge
- Hike back through hill with north coast views
What’s included
- Water and fruit throughout the tour.
- private tour guide in English, Spanish or Dutch.
- snorkelling equipment.
- all park entrance fees and taxes.
- hotel or accommodation pickup and return.
Times
- Every day 05:30 06:30
Before you book
Operated by Aruba Nature Adventures
Prices and times updated today
Need assistance?Message us on WhatsApp or by emailTraveler reviews
The experience
The hike starts before dawn so you arrive at Natural Pool as the sun breaks over the horizon. You begin at Daimari Beach and work your way along the coast, passing through the baby Sea Grape Forest and across beach dunes. The route is steady but uneven (volcanic terrain, sand and rock underfoot), and covers several miles over two to three hours. Your guide leads you through the park's interior, naming plants and pointing out the landscape as it wakes up.
Natural Pool, called Conchi or Cura di Tortuga by locals, is a circular basin of calm water ringed by ancient volcanic stone. The ocean and stone have shaped it over thousands of years into a natural swimming hole that sits protected from the open sea. You'll have time to snorkel and swim here, and the guide provides all snorkelling equipment. Water and fruit are available throughout the tour to keep you fueled.
On the return, instead of retracing the beach route, you hike back through the hills for views of Aruba's rugged north coastline. The tour includes a stop at a small natural bridge in the area, another formation most visitors miss. Pickup from your accommodation is included, as are all park entrance fees and taxes. The guide speaks English, Spanish or Dutch depending on your preference.
Is this one for you?Book this tour if you want to reach Natural Pool before other visitors arrive and experience the park as it wakes up. The early start and private guide mean you move at your own pace and have time to swim and snorkel without crowds. Children from age 6 are welcome if they can manage the uneven terrain and moderate hiking distance.
Compare the 6 alternatives
Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in English, Spanish and Dutch.
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What is Natural Pool like when you arrive?
Natural Pool is a calm, circular basin of seawater held by volcanic rock formations that have been shaped by the ocean over thousands of years. It sits sheltered from the open sea, making it safe for swimming and snorkelling, and the early morning light reflects off the water and stone.
How difficult is the hike to Natural Pool?
The route covers several miles over two to three hours on uneven volcanic terrain, sand and beach dunes. You need at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers.
What else do you see on the way to Natural Pool?
You pass through the baby Sea Grape Forest, walk across beach dunes, visit Daimari Beach and Moro Beach, and see a small natural bridge hidden in the area. On the return, you hike through the hills instead of along the beach for views of the north coastline.
Is snorkelling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkelling gear is included with the tour. You use it at Natural Pool to explore the water and marine life in the basin.
Do you need to arrange your own transport to the park?
No, pickup from your accommodation is included in the tour price. The guide will collect you and bring you back after the hike.
Arikok Sunrise Hike to Natural Pool: Snorkel in a hidden gem
2h–3h · EN · ES +1
from US$ 110 per person
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.