Aruba: Private Sunrise Hike to Natural Pool Conchi & Swim

Summary

Hike under stars to Conchi for sunrise then swim in wild waters

You’ll start before dawn with your private guide, hiking under stars along Aruba’s coast toward Conchi—the island’s wild Natural Pool. Watch sunrise from volcanic rocks, then swim or snorkel with nobody else around but your small group. Includes pickup, snacks, drinks and all gear so you can just focus on those first rays of sunlight breaking over the sea.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to be awake and lacing up my shoes while most of Aruba was still asleep. The air felt different—cooler, salty, and a little electric. Our guide, Daniel, handed us headlamps and grinned like he knew something we didn’t. “Trust me,” he said, which sounded more like a promise than advice. We started along the windward coast in the dark, the only sounds our footsteps crunching over rocks and the waves somewhere out there, hidden by night.

About halfway in, I realized how much I’d been missing by always sleeping through sunrises. The sky slowly changed from black to this deep blue that made everything feel bigger. Daniel pointed out shapes on the horizon—bays and beaches I’d never seen on any map. It was quiet except for him humming softly (some local song I wish I could remember). By the time we reached Conchi—the Natural Pool—the sun was just starting to edge up over the water. I swear it looked unreal for a second. There was nobody else around; just us and that wild pool surrounded by volcanic rock.

I jumped in before I could overthink it. The water was cold but woke me right up—felt sharp against my skin in a good way. Daniel tossed me a snorkel mask and said something about parrotfish (I only saw flashes of blue and yellow). My friend tried to say “Conchi” properly and Daniel laughed so hard he almost dropped his snack bag. We floated there for what felt like ages while the light kept changing—pinkish gold on wet rocks. Honestly, I still think about that view when I can’t sleep back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private sunrise hike to Natural Pool

• Start hike in dark under stars
• Follow guide along windward coast
• Pass beautiful bays and beaches
• Arrive at Natural Pool (Conchi)
• Watch sunrise from the ocean
• Float, jump, or snorkel in pool

Top questions

How long is the sunrise hike to Aruba's Natural Pool?

The hike starts before dawn and lasts until after sunrise at Conchi; exact timing depends on pace but plan for several hours including swimming time.

Is hotel pickup included for this private sunrise hike?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included as part of your tour.

Can you snorkel at Aruba's Natural Pool during this tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided so you can snorkel in the Natural Pool if you want.

What should I wear for the sunrise hike to Conchi?

Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, hiking clothes, a hat or sunglasses; bring swimwear if you want to swim or snorkel.

Is this sunrise hike suitable for beginners?

This tour requires at least moderate physical fitness; it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the hike?

Yes, snacks and soda/pop are included during your private sunrise hike experience.

Do we need to buy an entry ticket for Arikok Park?

No need; your day pass (worth $11 per person) is included in your booking.

What’s included

Your morning includes private hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees (including Arikok Park day pass), use of headlamps for hiking in the dark, snacks and drinks along the way, snorkeling equipment if you want to swim at Conchi—and your own local guide leading every step until you’re dropped off again after sunrise.