Aruba Countryside Tour – Discover Aruba Beyond the Beaches

Most visitors to Aruba spend their days on the island's famous beaches—and for good reason. Aruba's white sand beaches and turquoise waters are world-class. But there's another side to Aruba that many visitors never discover: rugged desert landscapes, dramatic rock formations, historic landmarks, and a rich cultural heritage that tells the story of the island's past. The Aruba Countryside Tour takes you off the beaten path to explore nearly 70 percent of the island in one comprehensive day, revealing the diverse beauty and fascinating history that makes Aruba so unique.

What Makes Aruba's Countryside Special

Aruba is a small island—just 19.6 miles long and 6 miles wide—but its diversity is remarkable. The island's interior is a stark contrast to the developed beach areas, featuring a desert-like landscape shaped by constant trade winds, minimal rainfall, and centuries of geological forces. Cacti-studded hillsides, dramatic limestone formations, and hidden valleys create a landscape that feels worlds away from the Caribbean beaches just a few miles away.

This tour is designed to show you the best of Aruba's natural and cultural attractions in one convenient outing. You'll travel in comfort aboard an air-conditioned bus, with knowledgeable guides providing commentary about the island's history, culture, and natural features. The tour includes stops at Aruba's most iconic landmarks, giving you the opportunity to explore, take photos, and truly experience the island's diversity.

Iconic Landmarks You'll Visit

The California Lighthouse

Perched on Aruba's northwestern tip, the California Lighthouse is one of the island's most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1914 and named after the steamship California that wrecked nearby in 1891, this 100-foot lighthouse offers panoramic views of Aruba's coastline and the Caribbean Sea. The surrounding area is equally stunning, with dramatic rock formations and crashing waves creating a rugged, beautiful landscape. You'll have time to explore the area, take photos, and appreciate the lighthouse's historic significance.

Alto Vista Chapel

The Alto Vista Chapel, also known as the "Pilgrim's Church," is a small, peaceful chapel that holds great significance in Aruba's history. Built in 1750, this was Aruba's first Catholic church, constructed by Spanish missionaries. The current building is a reconstruction, but the location and the peacefulness of the site remain. The chapel sits on a hill with views of the surrounding countryside, and the surrounding area features a Stations of the Cross walk. It's a place of quiet reflection and historical importance, offering insight into Aruba's colonial past.

The Natural Bridge (Ruins)

While the original Natural Bridge collapsed in 2005, the ruins remain a fascinating natural attraction. The area features dramatic limestone formations carved by wind and water over thousands of years. Even without the original bridge, the site showcases the powerful geological forces that have shaped Aruba's landscape. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the rugged coastline and the opportunity to see how nature continues to shape the island. There's also a smaller "Baby Bridge" nearby that remains intact, giving visitors a sense of what the original formation looked like.

What You'll Experience on Your Tour

Your countryside adventure begins with convenient pickup from your hotel. As you leave the developed beach areas and head into Aruba's interior, you'll immediately notice the landscape change. The tour takes you through different regions of the island, each with its own character and attractions.

Throughout the journey, your guide from AGW TOURS ARUBA will provide fascinating commentary about:

• Aruba's history – From the Arawak Indians who first inhabited the island to Spanish and Dutch colonization

• Local culture – Traditions, customs, and the unique blend of influences that shape modern Aruban life

• Natural features – Geology, flora, and fauna that make Aruba's landscape unique

• Local insights – Stories and information that only locals know

The tour is designed to be comfortable and convenient. The air-conditioned bus makes travel pleasant even on hot days, and scheduled stops give you plenty of time to explore each location at your own pace. Snacks and refreshments are included, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the 4-hour journey.

Why Take a Countryside Tour in Aruba

While Aruba's beaches are magnificent, seeing only the coast means missing half of what makes the island special. The countryside tour offers several benefits:

• See the real Aruba – Experience the island's natural diversity beyond the resorts and beaches

• Learn about history and culture – Gain insight into Aruba's past and present from knowledgeable local guides

• Visit multiple attractions efficiently – Cover nearly 70 percent of the island in one day, visiting sites that would be difficult to reach independently

• Comfortable and convenient – Air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup, and included refreshments make it easy

• Great for photography – The diverse landscapes and historic sites provide endless photo opportunities

• Perfect for all ages – The tour is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers of all ages

What to Expect on Your Tour

This 4-hour tour is designed to be comprehensive yet comfortable. You'll spend approximately 70 percent of your time on the bus traveling between sites, with the remaining 30 percent spent exploring the attractions. The balance allows you to see a lot of the island while still having time to appreciate each location.

At each stop, you'll have time to:

• Explore the site independently

• Take photos

• Learn from your guide about the location's significance

• Purchase souvenirs (at some locations)

• Simply enjoy the scenery

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don't need to worry about transportation. The air-conditioned bus is comfortable, and the guides ensure everyone has a good experience. The included snacks and refreshments help keep everyone comfortable throughout the journey.

Booking Your Aruba Countryside Adventure

With 305 travelers rating this experience 4.7/5, it's clear that this tour delivers an exceptional overview of Aruba. At $49 for a 4-hour tour that includes transportation, guide, snacks, and access to multiple attractions, it represents excellent value. The convenience of seeing so much of the island in one day, combined with the comfort and knowledge provided, makes this a must-do for anyone wanting to truly understand Aruba.

Operated by AGW TOURS ARUBA, this tour benefits from their local expertise and understanding of the island. Their guides are passionate about sharing Aruba's history, culture, and natural beauty with visitors, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for the island.

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons (December through April) when tours fill up quickly. The tour is available year-round, though the morning tours are often more comfortable during the hotter summer months.

What to Bring

To make the most of your countryside tour, you'll want to bring:

• Camera – The diverse landscapes and historic sites provide excellent photo opportunities

• Sunscreen and hat – Protection from the Caribbean sun is essential

• Comfortable walking shoes – For exploring the various sites

• Water bottle – Additional hydration beyond the provided refreshments

• Light jacket or sweater – The air-conditioned bus can be cool

Whether you're a first-time visitor wanting to see the best of Aruba, a repeat visitor looking to explore beyond the beaches, or someone interested in history and culture, the Aruba Countryside Tour offers something for everyone. It's an opportunity to see the island's diverse beauty, learn about its rich history, and gain a deeper appreciation for what makes Aruba so special. Don't miss the chance to discover the Aruba that lies beyond the beaches—you'll be amazed by what you find.