Perched off the coast of Venezuela, the tiny Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba offers a heady mix of sun-kissed blonde beaches, bucolic national parks, cool breezes, and pretty European-style architecture that evokes the nation’s roots. The people here are as varied as the vistas, with four languages – including an entrancing local dialect – spoken here.
There are an array of fun-filled activities to enjoy on Aruba, many of which take place on the island’s pristine coastline and tranquil waters. However, there are also plenty of things to see and do inland. One of the most popular pursuits is horseback riding, and we’ve picked out five of the best Aruba horse riding tours on offer.
Natural Pool Horseback Riding Tour
From $106 per person
You’ll begin this 2.5-hour horse riding adventure with a pick-up at your Aruba hotel. After reaching your ranch, you’ll meet your guide who will match you with a suitable horse based on your riding experience. Once on your way, you’ll ride through Arikok National Park and up into the highlands for picture-postcard views of the island. Next you’ll descend through the sand dunes to the beach, where you’ll ride along the shoreline to a natural pool. Here you can spend time exploring the area and even taking a dip if you desire. You’ll then clamber back on your horse and head back to the stables to say goodbye to your trusty horse before your return trip.
Horseback Riding Tour to Urirama Cove
From $81 per person
After pick-up from your Aruba hotel, you’ll be transported to a nearby ranch where you’ll receive instructions before being securely mounted on your horse. From here, you’ll be guided through the Aruban countryside free of noisy streets and traffic, passing exotic animals such as donkeys, iguanas and parakeets as you go. You’ll then reach Urirama Cove, a secluded beach on the island’s northeast coast, where you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the views. After returning to the ranch, you can kick back and relax with a drink at the bar before your return journey.
Private Horseback Ride and Island Tour
From $81 per person
Go horseback riding on an exclusive, private sightseeing tour of the island for two people. Lasting around 2 hours in total, you’ll ride along the white sand of the Aruban white sand coastline at a relaxed pace, looking out for rabbits, iguanas, goats, parakeets, donkeys and Aruba’s largest bird of prey – the ‘Wara Wara’ (vulture) along the way. Afterwards, you’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of the island, including visits to notable landmarks and places of interest including the Baby Natural Bridge, the Goldmine Ruins, Alto Vista Chapel and the California Lighthouse. Round-trip transportation from Aruba hotels is included in the price of the tour.
Rancho Loco National Park: Arikok Horseback Riding
From $97 per person
Experience Aruba’s beautiful beaches and wild shoreline from the majestic vantage point of a horse on this 2.5-hour riding tour. A shuttle bus will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to a local ranch, where your guide will match you with a suitable horse and provide instructions on how to get the most out of the experience. Once you’re set, you’ll ride through the stunning Arikok National Park, featuring diverse terrains such as desert-like hills dotted with towering cacti. Next you’ll ride the white sand dunes of the shoreline, heading to a natural pool where you can take a refreshing dip if you desire.
Sunset Horseback Ride
From $89 per person
Set off on horseback to see Aruba’s picturesque countryside during this guided 1.5-hour tour that ends with a magical hilltop sunset viewing. Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, you’ll be picked up from your Aruba hotel or cruise port before making the short journey to a local ranch. After an introductory session with your guide and horse, you can saddle up and traverse the trails that are lined with vegetation, birds, and lizards along Aruba’s North East Coast. After riding your horse to the lookout you can watch colours streak the sky as the sun goes down – be sure to bring your camera to capture the magical vistas. Back at the ranch you can unwind with a drink at the bar before you’re driven back to your drop-off point.
