Aruba Wildlife Watching
Many travelers set their sights on a getaway to Aruba with every intention of spending as much time as possible on the sand and under the sun. While soaking up the relaxing moments on the island is always available and certainly a delight, Aruba is also an island packed with opportunities for exciting wildlife watching! If you happen to have a passion for spotting incredible creatures, you’ll quickly find that Aruba is brimming over with opportunities to do exactly that. From sand and sea to sky and hidden away lagoons, Aruba’s lush terrain offers wildlife amazing places to thrive and visitors plenty of options for seeing Aruba wildlife in their natural habitats.
What Types of Wildlife Call Aruba Home?
Across Aruba, it’s common for visitors to find themselves sharing space with everything from crabs and turtles to butterflies, lizards, and snakes. In certain areas of the island, it’s possible to spot mountain climbing goats and donkeys, while overhead, the Prikichi soars, which is proud to be Aruba’s national bird.
If you’re planning on spending ample time at the beach, you’ll find the sand is sensationally soft and inviting. Below the top layer of sand, Aruba’s shorelines also house Atlantic ghost crabs. Don’t let the name scare you, as these small wild animals in Aruba are fun to watch as they throw sand and move their eyes in all directions.
When temperatures rise and visitors decide to hop in the water for a swim or snorkel, it’s the perfect time to admire the wildlife that lives below the waves. The waters around Aruba host everything from vibrant tropical fish and crabs to coral and starfish. Sea turtles swim slowly by, while the many fish that school and congregate here are sure to inspire. Some of the typical Caribbean fish you might encounter while exploring the water include damselfish and parrotfish as well as hogfish, just to name a few.
Make Time for Birding
Many visitors to the island of Aruba are surprised to learn that this charming locale is home to over 200 species of birds! The island setting is always inspiring when it comes to grabbing your binoculars, turning your eyes toward the sky, and seeing what flies by. A popular place to enjoy bird watching while you’re here is the Bubali Bird Sanctuary. Situated within walking distance of Palm Beach, this nature preserve is home to over 80 species of birds alone and provides guests with access to an observation tower for a better view. Some of the most iconic species you’ll spot here include herons, ducks, coots, Caribbean seabirds, and more. While viewing at the sanctuary is always a treat, those looking for a guided experience will find there are plenty of options to book guided bird-watching tours alongside naturalists in the area. This is a good way to learn more about the collection of Aruba wildlife, access the best bird-watching areas, and ask plenty of questions along the way.
Additional Wildlife Sanctuaries to Check Out
In addition to the Bubali Bird Sanctuary, Aruba is home to the Butterfly Farm. This stop provides a protected environment for hundreds of colorful butterflies to thrive. Visitors can drop by to see them flutter en masse and to learn more about their life cycles. After a stop here, it’s worth your while to drop by the Aruba Ostrich Farm, where these incredible creatures are housed, rehabilitated, and protected. There’s also an island Donkey Sanctuary where injured donkeys and those rescued from abuse can live in a loving, safe, and calm space.
Take a Tour of Arikok National Park
One of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring landmarks in all of Aruba happens to be Arikok National Park. This massive space of protected land covers nearly 20% of the island and houses a plethora of plants and wild animals in Aruba for guests to observe during a visit. While it’s entirely possible to come across these amazing creatures on your own, booking an organized tour of the park can make for a more comprehensive experience. Many Arikok National Park tours are led by park rangers who are experienced in pointing out spectacular flora and fauna while recounting the park’s history and highlighting points of interest along the way. Booking a tour is a good way to ensure you’ll not only enjoy the best park views but make the absolute most of wildlife watching moments.
Book Your Stay in Aruba Today
There’s no reason to wait when you’re excited to enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure in Aruba. The next time travel plans bring you this way and you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay, Casiola Aruba has you covered. Take time to browse our many beautiful and inviting vacation rental options across the island that keep you close to fun while providing top-notch amenities and features. Feel free to book online, and rest easy knowing your home away from home will be ready and waiting for you upon arrival.
