Aruba: Arikok Jeep Tour & Baby Beach Snorkeling with Lunch

Summary

Swim volcanic pools wander ancient caves and unwind at Baby Beach

You’ll bounce across Arikok’s wild terrain in a 4x4 jeep, swim in volcanic pools with your local guide, taste fresh pastechi for breakfast, explore ancient caves with mysterious drawings, then finish off snorkeling at Baby Beach after a hearty lunch. Expect sunburned cheeks and stories you’ll want to tell again.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I almost bailed when I saw the open-air jeeps lined up outside Arikok — the wind was already whipping my hair into knots and I’d barely finished my pastechi (that flaky pastry is worth showing up early for, by the way). Our guide, Luis, grinned and handed out bottled water like he knew what was coming. The engine rumbled to life and off we went, bouncing over rocks while goats scattered out of the way. It’s not smooth — but that’s kind of the point.

The first time I saw the Natural Pool (locals call it Conchi), it looked like something from another planet. Black volcanic rock everywhere, waves crashing so loud you had to shout. We climbed down carefully — bring water shoes if you have them — and slipped into the pool. Salt on my lips, little fish darting past my ankles. Luis joked about “Aruban spa treatments” as we let tiny fish nibble our toes in Fontein Cave later (I tried not to squirm but honestly, it tickles more than you’d think). The cave paintings there are faded but somehow still powerful — I caught myself tracing one with my finger before remembering not to touch.

Lunch was simple: grilled chicken or beef at a ranch with sticky rice and plantains. Nothing fancy but after all that sun and swimming it hit the spot. We rolled through San Nicolas next; bright murals everywhere, some so big they spill onto sidewalks. Kids waved at us from doorways. Then finally Baby Beach — water so clear it felt unreal, shallow enough that even nervous swimmers were snorkeling by the reef in minutes. I lost track of time floating there, watching sunlight flicker across sand and coral.

I didn’t expect to feel so tired but happy at the end of this day trip from Oranjestad. My skin smelled like salt and sunscreen for hours after. If you’re looking for a polished resort vibe this isn’t it — but if you want Aruba raw and real, with a guide who actually grew up here? Well…you’ll probably remember that first plunge into Conchi too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jeep tour and snorkeling adventure

• Eat local breakfast snack Pastechi
• Drive around Arikok National Park
• Visit Natural Pool and snorkel
• Explore Dos Playa Beach
• Visit Indian Caves and see paintings
• Get wild Fish Pedicure at Fontein Cave
• Visit cave chambers for photos
• Have local lunch at ranch
• Drive to Baby Beach via San Nicolas murals
• Swim and snorkel at Baby Beach

Top questions

How long is the Arikok jeep tour & snorkeling day trip?

The tour lasts around 7 hours including all stops and lunch.

Is lunch included on this Aruba jeep tour?

Yes, a small local lunch (beef or chicken) is included at noon.

Do I need to bring snorkeling equipment for Baby Beach?

No, use of snorkeling equipment is included in the tour price.

What should I wear for swimming at Natural Pool?

Water shoes are highly recommended due to rocky terrain; bring swimwear.

Are hotel pickups included in this Aruba jeep tour?

The description does not mention hotel pickup; check when booking.

Can travelers with back problems join this tour?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Is this day trip suitable for kids or families?

The tour suits most fitness levels but may be rough for very young children due to off-roading.

Are entrance fees for Arikok included?

Yes, entrance ticket fees for Arikok are included in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes entry tickets to Arikok Park, a breakfast pastechi from a family shack, bottled water throughout the journey, use of snorkeling gear at both Conchi and Baby Beach, all taxes and fees covered, plus a simple local lunch before heading out to snorkel again—just don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking inside caves and over rocky paths.