Follow the Gold Hike & Snorkeling Tour with Guide
This tour stands out by combining Aruba’s rich history with thrilling outdoor activities in a semi-private, personalized setting. It offers a unique blend of experiences, from exploring the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins—Aruba’s iconic gold rush site with stunning stone structures—to the adventurous Natural Pool, perfect for swimming and cliff jumping. The inclusion of scenic hikes through Aruba’s rugged north coast adds a layer of natural beauty and breathtaking views, enhancing the overall experience.
Visitors enjoy intimate group sizes that allow for engaging storytelling and deeper insights from knowledgeable guides, making each stop more than just a visit but an immersive journey through Aruba’s past and present. This blend of history, nature, and adventure, all set against the island’s dramatic landscapes, makes the tour an unparalleled experience for those seeking both education and excitement.
Options
Tour per Person
Personal vehicle
Pickup included
What's included in Follow the Gold Hike & Snorkeling Tour with Guide
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Balashi Gold Mill Ruins
Begin your adventure with a visit to the historic Balashi Gold Mill Ruins, a key site from Aruba’s gold rush era. Built in 1899, the mill processed millions of pounds of gold before closing during World War I. The ruins, set at the edge of the Spanish Lagoon, feature impressive stone walls and chimneys, offering a glimpse into Aruba’s mining past. Stroll through the site and enjoy the panoramic views of the Spanish Lagoon, with its lush scenery and tranquil waters. You’ll also see Frenchman’s Pass, a narrow canyon filled with local legends, adding a touch of mystery to the stop. Capture the scenic beauty and look out for Aruba’s national bird, the Shoco, which often nests in the soft terrain. This tour blends history, nature, and stunning landscapes, making it a perfect start to your Aruba exploration. Let me know if further adjustments are needed!
Natural Bridge
We will start by visiting the remains of the Natural Bridge, one of Aruba’s most famous landmarks that collapsed in 2005. Despite its fall, this spot remains a must-see with its dramatic coastal views and nearby smaller natural bridges that still stand strong. Afterward, we’ll hike through the hills of Noord, exploring ancient gold mines and the striking Big Quartz rocks where early gold diggers once searched for treasure. This moderate 1.5 to 2-mile hike offers stunning ocean views and a deep dive into Aruba’s rich mining history, making it an unforgettable part of the excursion.
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
Upon arrival at the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, you’ll receive a brief introduction to the site’s history. Built in 1872 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company Ltd., the mill processed gold extracted from nearby hills, reflecting the island’s gold rush era. Despite only operating for a decade, the impressive stone walls, chimneys, and arches remain, offering a glimpse into 19th-century gold mining and stunning views of Aruba’s north coast. After exploring the ruins, we’ll visit the Natural Pool, a hidden coastal gem perfect for swimming and cliff jumping, combining history and adventure in one memorable experience
Inclusions
- Private Tour Guide
- Transportation
- Water during the tour
- Tour guide Tips :)
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 30 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
Important Information for Your Tour - Hotel Pickup: Pickup from your hotel will be scheduled 30 minutes before the departure time, depending on your hotel location. - Towels Required: All guests must bring towels. Passengers without towels will not be allowed to board the transportation. - Punctuality Matters: Please arrive on time—the driver will wait a maximum of 10 minutes. If you miss the pickup, transportation will be at your own expense. However, if you manage to arrive at the departure point on time, you can still join the tour. Booking Confirmation: After booking, always confirm your pickup location to avoid delays. - Cruise Ship Passengers: The pickup point is at the "I Love Aruba" sign, located outside the cruise terminal, near the gas station. Pickup is scheduled 30 minutes before the tour departure time. We look forward to seeing you on this adventure!
