You’ll roar across Aruba’s wild north coast by UTV, swim and cliff jump at Conchi’s natural pool with your guide nearby, explore old gold mill ruins and Alto Vista Chapel, then snorkel clear waters at Tres Trapi Beach before sitting down for a homemade local lunch. Expect laughter, salty air, and moments you’ll want to replay later.
We bounced out of Oranjestad in a line of bright UTVs, dust masks on and sun already warming the air. Our guide, Franklin, had this easy way of waving at folks we passed—kids waved back, sometimes laughing at our ridiculous goggles. The first stretch felt like a rollercoaster over rock and cactus. I kept thinking I’d lose my hat (almost did). When we finally pulled up to Arikok and switched to the monster truck for Conchi, the wind carried this salty tang that stuck on my lips. It was loud—engines, shouts, birds overhead—but also kind of thrilling.
The hike down to the Natural Pool was steeper than I expected—100 steps that made my legs wobble a bit. I hesitated at the edge before jumping in; Franklin just grinned and said “Go for it!” The water was cold but clear enough to see every ripple over black lava rocks. Some folks snorkeled right away; I just floated for a minute, trying to catch my breath from laughing so hard. We talked about how only certain tours actually get you here—felt lucky about that.
After drying off (sort of) we rattled along the northern coast past Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. Franklin told us stories about gold rush days—he made it sound like everyone’s uncle had tried their luck here once. At Alto Vista Chapel, vendors handed out coconut water in plastic cups; I spilled half mine trying to open it with one hand. The chapel itself is tiny but bright inside—candles flickering even in daylight.
Tres Trapi Beach came last—the sand gritty underfoot, water glassy blue. Someone spotted a turtle while snorkeling; I missed it but caught sight of tiny fish darting through rocks. Lunch at Waka Waka after all that dust tasted way better than it should’ve—grilled grouper with something spicy on the side (still not sure what). My shoes are still stained red from the trail but honestly? Every time I find sand in my bag now, I smile.
The tour typically lasts around 6-7 hours including pickup, driving between sites, swimming stops, and lunch.
Yes, a homemade lunch at Waka Waka restaurant is included on morning departures.
No experience needed but you must have a valid driver’s license and moderate fitness; safety instructions are given before departure.
Yes—swimming and snorkeling are available at both stops (weather permitting), with gear provided by the tour.
No—the Arikok Park fee ($22 per person) is not included and must be paid upon check-in.
The tour is family-friendly but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.
Wear casual clothes with close-toed shoes; bring a reusable water bottle (ice water provided), swimsuit, sunscreen, and your driver’s license.
Your day includes pickup from Oranjestad, all safety gear like dust masks and snorkel equipment, guided driving in new UTVs across rugged trails with exclusive access to Conchi Natural Pool for swimming or cliff jumping (weather allowing), stops at Bushiribana Ruins and Alto Vista Chapel—with time for local snacks—and finally snorkeling at Tres Trapi Beach before enjoying a freshly cooked local lunch if you’re on the morning tour.
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