Aruba ATV Tour: Animal Sanctuary, Alto Vista & Natural Pools

Summary

Feed rescued wildlife and ride rocky coastlines to secret pools on Aruba’s wild side

You’ll feed rescued animals at Philip’s sanctuary (watch out for greedy goats), ride an ATV across Aruba’s wild north coast with a local guide, pause at Alto Vista Chapel for quiet reflection, and cool off in a hidden cave pool. Expect grit on your skin and salt in your hair—and moments that stick with you longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

Philip waved us over before we’d even climbed off the ATVs—he had this easy grin, like he already knew we’d be nervous around the goats. The animal sanctuary was noisy but not in a bad way; just kids laughing, parrots squawking, and that earthy smell you get around hay and fur. Philip handed out little bags of feed—mine leaked powder all over my shorts—and told us stories about how some of the animals ended up here. There was a donkey who apparently liked papaya more than carrots (I tried both, he wasn’t lying). It felt less like a zoo and more like visiting someone’s backyard where every creature had its own backstory.

Once we got going again, the wind picked up dust that stuck to my sunscreen—my arms were gritty but I didn’t care. Our guide, Liandro, took us down these rough tracks I’d never have found alone. He pointed out the Alto Vista Chapel up ahead—bright yellow against the scrubby hills—and told us it’s been here since 1750. People left little stones in circles nearby; I asked why, and he just shrugged and said “It’s for prayers or memories. Or both.” The air was still except for birds and someone humming quietly by the door. I sat inside for a minute because it felt right.

The Baby Natural Bridge was smaller than I pictured but louder—the ocean crashed right underneath, spraying salt onto our faces if you stood too close (which of course I did). The rocks were sharp under my hands, almost black in places from years of sun. Later at Wariruri Beach, there were fishermen casting lines into water so blue it looked fake; one of them waved at us like we were old friends. We didn’t swim—the current’s too strong—but just walking along the edge felt wild.

I didn’t expect to love the Cave Natural Pool as much as I did. You have to scramble down rocks that look impossible until you’re actually doing it. The water was cold enough to make me gasp when I jumped in—Liandro laughed at my face—and then everything went quiet except for our splashing and echoes off the stone walls. On the way back, everyone was quieter than before, maybe tired or just thinking about what we’d seen. Even now, days later, I keep remembering that cool shock of water after all that dust.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Aruba's natural and historic sites

• Visit Philip's Animal Garden
• See Alto Vista Chapel
• Explore Baby Natural Bridge
• Visit Wariruri Beach
• Tour Bushiribana Ruins
• Swim at Cave Natural Pool
• Pass by Shark Bay
• Visit Andicuri Beach
• See Tripod Bridge
• Visit Black Stone Beach
• Pass by Ayo Rock Formations

Top questions

How long is the Aruba ATV tour?

The tour lasts about 4 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included in this Aruba ATV adventure?

Yes, free pickup and drop-off from your accommodation are included.

What age do you need to be to drive an ATV?

You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license to drive an ATV.

Can children join this Aruba ATV tour?

Yes, children aged 6 and above can join as passengers.

Is animal feeding included at Philip's Animal Garden?

Yes, feeding bags are provided so you can feed the rescued animals during your visit.

Are there swimming opportunities on this tour?

You can swim or cliff jump at the Cave Natural Pool stop.

Is lunch provided during the ATV tour?

No lunch is included; bottled water and non-alcoholic drinks are provided.

What should I wear for this Aruba ATV day trip?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dusty; helmets and bandanas are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes free hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Aruba, bottled water and soft drinks along the way (trust me—you’ll want them), safety gear like helmets and bandanas handed out before you start revving engines, plus entry to Philip’s Animal Garden with animal feeding bags on arrival. All rides are guided by locals who know every bump in those rocky trails before bringing you safely back four hours later.