Aruba North Coast Horseback Ride: Beaches, Ruins & Ocean Views

Summary

Horseback riding Aruba’s wild coast past gold mill ruins and dunes

You’ll ride along Aruba’s northern coast with a local guide, passing cacti fields and old gold mill ruins before reaching breezy beaches for a canter by the waves. Expect small group attention, riding instructions—even if you’re new—and moments where Aruba feels bigger and wilder than you thought.

What’s the experience like?

It starts with dust under your shoes and the smell of hay—honestly, I was nervous at the ranch. Our guide, Miguel, handed me a helmet (optional for adults but I took it) and went over the basics in this easy way that made even my clumsy mounting feel okay. My horse was called Luna—gentle eyes, a bit stubborn about following the others at first. We set off right away, just a handful of us, and you could hear the wind before you saw the sea. The air felt dry but sharp, like it carried salt from somewhere far off.

The first stretch through Arikok was all cacti and rocks—nothing like the soft green trails I’d expected. Miguel pointed out some lizards sunning themselves; he said their tails snap off if you grab them (not that we tried). The ocean showed up quick on our left: wild blue with white spray crashing against dark cliffs. We walked mostly, then trotted when Miguel gave the signal—my thighs still remember that part. There’s this moment where you pass the Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins and it’s just stone walls against sky; he told us how people came here chasing gold in the 1800s. I tried to imagine that rush while Luna sniffed at a tuft of grass.

We kept moving towards Budui Beach—the sand looked almost white under the sun, no shade anywhere except what your horse throws. At Wariruri Bay we picked up speed and cantered along the waterline (I think I whooped out loud). Someone in our group dropped their phone trying to take a photo but Miguel just laughed and scooped it up on his next pass—no drama. The breeze there is something else; it pushes against you so hard your hat would fly if they let you wear one (they don’t). My hands smelled like leather reins for hours after.

By the end my legs were jelly but I didn’t want to get off Luna—not yet anyway. There’s something about seeing Aruba from horseback that sticks with you longer than any picture could. Sometimes when I hear wind rattling palm leaves now, I still think about that view over the dunes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding along Aruba's coast

• Meet guide at ranch
• Receive riding instructions
• Get assigned a horse
• Ride through northern coast park
• Enjoy ocean views and breeze
• Pass Bushiribana gold mill ruins
• Ride towards Splash Bay
• Arrive at Budui Beach
• Gallop on white sand dunes
• Pose under baby natural bridge
• Guide takes photos

Top questions

How long is the Aruba horseback riding tour?

The ride lasts around 90 minutes of non-stop horseback riding with short breaks at beaches for photos.

Is hotel pickup included for this Aruba horseback adventure?

Yes, hotel pickup is included; make sure to provide your hotel information when booking.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience?

No experience is needed; riding and safety instructions are provided before starting.

What is the weight limit for riders?

The maximum weight allowed per rider is 220 lbs (100 kg).

Are helmets required during the tour?

Helmets are mandatory for children and optional but recommended for adults.

Can pregnant travelers join this horseback tour?

No, pregnant travelers are not recommended to join this tour.

What should I wear for this ride?

Long pants and firm shoes are strongly advised; hats aren’t allowed during the ride.

Does the tour go inside Arikok National Park?

The ride starts near Arikok and follows trails along Aruba’s northern coast through park landscapes.

Will we visit Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins on horseback?

You’ll pass by Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins during your ride with time to learn about its history from your guide.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary riding tack, bottled water to keep cool under Aruba’s sun, safety instructions before mounting up—even if it’s your first time—and helmets available for everyone (required for kids). You’ll be matched with a horse suited to your experience level before heading out along those wild coastal trails.