Aruba North Shore: ATV & UTV Adventure with Aloe Factory

Summary

Ride Aruba’s wild north coast, gold ruins and aloe fields on ATV

You’ll ride ATVs or UTVs across Aruba’s rugged north shore with a local guide, stopping at spots like the Aloe Factory & Museum, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and Alto Vista Chapel. Expect wind in your face, stories from locals, and surprising moments of calm between all the dust and laughter.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I stalled my ATV right in front of everyone at the start. The guide, Miguel, just grinned and told me it happens all the time—he even gave me a thumbs up as I finally got going. The wind hit my face as we left Oranjestad behind and headed straight for Aruba’s rougher north shore. It was louder than I expected out there, engine buzzing under me and salt air whipping around, but after a few minutes it felt kind of freeing. We passed goats picking through dry brush and a couple of local kids waved at us from a dusty yard—I waved back but probably looked ridiculous in the helmet.

First stop was the Aruba Aloe Factory. I didn’t know much about aloe before—turns out they’ve been growing it here since 1890. The smell inside was sharp and clean, almost medicinal. Our guide explained how locals use aloe for pretty much everything (sunburns especially). After that, we bounced along rocky trails to the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. The stone walls were warm from the sun; you could see where people had carved their names into some of the rocks (Miguel shook his head at that part). He told us about pirates trying to raid this place centuries ago—didn’t expect a mini history lesson on an ATV tour.

The Baby Natural Bridge wasn’t huge but you could hear the waves thumping underneath, echoing off the rock. I stood there for a minute just watching spray fly up through little cracks—it felt weirdly peaceful for such a windy spot. Last stop: Alto Vista Chapel, painted this bright yellow that looked almost fake against all that dry landscape. A couple of locals were lighting candles inside. I sat on one of those stone benches outside and just listened to nothing for a bit—you don’t get that kind of quiet back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV tour visiting Aruba landmarks

• Drive ATV to Aruba Aloe Factory
• Explore Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum
• Ride to Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
• Visit Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
• Travel to Baby Natural Bridge
• See Baby Natural Bridge
• Drive to Alto Vista Chapel
• Visit Alto Vista Chapel

Top questions

How long does the Aruba ATV & UTV adventure last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

What attractions are included on this day trip?

You’ll visit the Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Baby Natural Bridge, and Alto Vista Chapel.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water is included for all participants.

Can passengers under 18 drive their own ATV or UTV?

No, by Aruban law only those 18 or older with a valid driver’s license can drive; under 18s can only ride as passengers.

Is this adventure suitable for travelers with back problems?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or certain health conditions.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

What should I bring on this ATV & UTV tour?

You should bring your driver’s license if you plan to drive and wear comfortable clothes suitable for dusty conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes riding an ATV or UTV with a local guide along Aruba’s north coast trails, entry to the Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum plus stops at historic sites like Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and Alto Vista Chapel—with bottled water provided throughout your adventure.