Aruba: Off Road Natural Pool Safari & Natural Bridge Tour

4.89

(3695 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the wind — it hits you as soon as you climb into the open-air 4x4 outside our hotel in Aruba. Our guide, Rafael, had this easy way of talking about the island’s history while steering us through cactus-lined tracks that looked nothing like the postcard beaches. The tires kicked up so much dust I could taste salt on my lips, and for a second I thought, “Wow, this is really the outback.” We passed a goat herd blocking the road; Rafael just laughed and honked gently until they shuffled off. I didn’t expect to see goats here, honestly.

It got bumpier as we headed north — not kidding, if you’ve got a bad back, maybe skip this one. But the views made up for every jolt. The Natural Bridge was first: pale limestone against wild blue water, with spray in the air and locals selling coconut water under a faded umbrella. Rafael explained how storms had knocked down the old bridge years ago but people still come to see what’s left (and yeah, it’s worth it). I tried saying “conchi” for natural pool in Papiamento — he grinned at my accent but gave me a thumbs up.

The main event was that Natural Pool. You scramble over rocks that are sharp enough to make you watch your step — bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet. The water is cold at first but then perfect once you’re in. There were tiny fish darting around my ankles while I floated and listened to waves smashing on volcanic rock just beyond us. Snorkeling gear was included (I nearly forgot mine), so we spent ages peering under the surface until my fingers went wrinkly. Some folks just sat quietly on the rocks watching pelicans glide overhead — honestly, I get why.

On the way back, sunburned and sandy, we all swapped stories about which part felt wildest (for me it was that moment when everything went silent except for wind and sea). They dropped us off by bus at our hotels — tired but kind of giddy. I still think about how different Aruba looks away from its famous beaches. If you want something rawer, this day trip to Aruba’s Natural Pool from your hotel is probably it.