Aruba UTV Tour: Bushiribana Gold Mill, Alto Vista & Coast Ride

Summary

Rugged Aruba coastlines, gold mill ruins and sun-warmed dust

You’ll ride a 2-seater UTV across Aruba’s rugged coast with a local guide—feeling wind and grit as you visit Alto Vista Chapel, explore Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and watch waves crash at Baby Natural Bridge. Includes hotel pickup and bottled water so you can just focus on soaking up all those raw island moments.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — that low rumble of the UTV engine mixed with wind whipping past my ears. We’d barely left Oranjestad when I realized how different Aruba feels once you’re off the main roads. Our guide, Miguel, had this easy way about him — he just grinned and shouted over the engine, “Hold tight!” as we bounced over a patch of rock that looked impossible to cross. My hands were already gritty from the red dust kicked up by the tires. I didn’t expect it to smell so sharp out there — like dry grass and salt air mashed together. It’s weirdly addictive.

We stopped at Alto Vista Chapel first. It’s perched up on this hill with nothing but sky behind it. The yellow paint almost glows in the sun (I swear it was brighter than anything else around). A couple of locals were lighting candles inside; one nodded at us as we peeked in. There was a breeze coming through the open door, carrying a hint of incense. Miguel told us about the chapel’s history — something about it being built on the site of Aruba’s first Catholic church back in 1750. I tried to picture what this place looked like then, but mostly I just remember how quiet it felt for a moment after all that engine noise.

After that we rattled along to the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins — which honestly looked like something out of an old adventure movie. The stones are rough under your palms, still warm from the sun, and you can see where people must’ve spent years hauling them into place during Aruba’s gold rush days. There was this wild stretch of coastline just beyond; waves smashing against black rocks while tiny lizards darted between our boots. Miguel pointed out a spot called Baby Natural Bridge (I almost missed it), and then we just stood there for a bit watching spray fly up every time water hit the rocks. My shoes were full of sand by then but I kind of didn’t care.

I keep thinking about that last stretch along the coast — sunlight flickering off shallow pools left behind by retreating waves, everything smelling faintly metallic from sea spray and old stone. If you’re looking for a day trip from Oranjestad or anywhere in Aruba that doesn’t feel staged or predictable, this UTV tour is probably it. You’ll come back dusty and grinning, maybe with a little more respect for how wild this island can be.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Aruba's natural and historic sites

• Visit Alto Vista Chapel hilltop
• See Baby Natural Bridge
• Tour Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
• Explore nearby rock formations and cave paintings

Top questions

How long is the Aruba UTV tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed but covers several major stops including Alto Vista Chapel and Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins.

Is hotel pickup included in this UTV tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from most hotels or cruise port are included.

Can children drive the UTV in Aruba?

No—by Aruban law only drivers aged 18+ with a valid license can drive; under 18s may ride as passengers only.

What should I wear for an Aruba UTV tour?

It’s recommended to wear close-toed shoes and a swimsuit underneath your clothes due to dust and possible swimming stops.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Which attractions does the UTV tour visit?

The main stops are Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Baby Natural Bridge, plus unique rock formations nearby.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes—bottled water is included for all participants.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off in Aruba, bottled water throughout the ride to keep you cool under the sun, all necessary safety gear (with a quick overview before you start), plus guidance from someone who really knows these trails—so you can just enjoy every bumpy mile without worrying about logistics.