This 4-hour excursion along the north coast of Aruba and through Arikok Park is not for the faint of heart. You will discover a gold mine, ancient petroglyphs left by the Arawak people, local fauna and flora and unusual landscapes. Upon docking in Aruba, you will meet your guide inside your Aruba cruise pier. Together you will board your comfortable transportation to the base camp, a quick 10-15 m
inutes ride away. After a safety briefing on the UTV's, you will begin your adventure. The UTV (utility task vehicle) drives like a golf cart with gas, brake and steering wheel. See restrictions for drivers. When you book, you get the UTV so you can either drive by yourself or choose someone to go with you. Drivers may switch duties if they wish. On your way to the first UTV excursion stop, you will drive through some local neighborhoods, Black Stone Beach. Located on the east side of the island, this amazing beach is the only one in Aruba boasting "black sand". This beach is lined with small and shimmery black eroded pebbles and edgy rocks. This beach is not recommended for swimming or snorkeling because of the strong currents, but you will be amazed by the beauty of the location. Afterward, you will visit the Tripod Natural Bridge, one of the most picturesque locations in Aruba. So have your camera ready if you want a picture on this site. The name "Tripod Bridge" is because the coral limestone was chiseled over the years and formed bridges connected at one point. Next, you will continue driving to the Bushiribana gold mine ruins where you'll have the chance to find some gold! The gold mill sits on the northern coast and once processed ore during Aruba's gold rush in the nineteenth century. Next, you will visit the Aruba Ostrich Farm where you will learn about the largest and heaviest birds in the world! You are more than welcome to take the guided walk through the farm and have the opportunity to hand-feed these amazing creatures. You'll also have the chance to visit the incubator, hatchery and the special pens for young ostriches and emus. At the end of your visit to the farm, you will receive bottled water and the favorite local snack, a delicious Pastechi! Continuing with your UTV excursion, you will make a stop at Ayo monolithic Rock Formation, this remarkable geological formation was once considered a sacred site by the original inhabitants of the island. You'll be able to see some ancient drawings dated back thousand years. Your last stop will be Mangel Halto Beach a secluded beach with calm and shallow waters and a perfect spot for snorkeling. If you choose to snorkel, you might be able to see parrotfish, yellowtail snapper, sergeant majors and many more! If not, there are shaded areas where you can relax and admire this beautiful landscape. There is also a small bar where you can purchase additional food and drinks. After your refreshing dip, you will ride off-road all the way back to the starting point of this Aruba UTV shore excursion. Here, you will again board the transportation provided and be brought back to your Aruba cruise ship pier.
