Aruba: The Best Of Aruba By Bus in Santa Cruz
Are you holidaying in Aruba and looking for the perfect way to experience the best of Santa Cruz?
Travelling by bus can be a great way to explore the iconic sites of Aruba, and you can do it without the added expense of renting a car – that way, you can make the most of your holiday budget. Buses in Aruba are a cheap, efficient and frequent public transport option that offer an exciting and memorable experience.
If you want to explore the beautiful city of Santa Cruz and the surrounding area, you can do so comfortably and conveniently by taking the local buses in Aruba. Read on to find out about the different bus operators in Santa Cruz, how much a bus ticket costs and the top places you can visit on an Aruban bus tour.
What are the Different Bus Companies in Aruba?
Santa Cruz is located on the Central-West coast of Aruba, which was once one of the busiest trading towns on the Island. It is home to some of the island’s most popular attractions, including the National Archeological Museum of Aruba and the Playa Bonanza Beach. There are three major bus companies in Aruba that offer services in Santa Cruz:
- Arubus – A government-owned bus service that runs throughout all of Aruba.
- Paradise Tours & Taxis – A private company offering a range of sightseeing tours by bus, taxi or rental car.
- San Nicolas Tours & Taxis – A passenger transportation service running shuttle buses and taxis for tourists.
Arubus is the national public bus service provider operating in Santa Cruz, connecting tourists from all over the island with multiple points of interest in Aruba. The buses are safe, modern and well-maintained, and tickets start from $2 USD per passenger.
Paradise Tours & Taxis offers a range of sightseeing excursions and airport transfer services in air-conditioned buses and shuttles. There are basic and deluxe tours available that take you around Santa Cruz, and prices start from $25 USD per person.
San Nicolas Tours & Taxis operate a similar service to Paradise Tours & Taxis but offers competitive fares starting from $22 USD per person. If you prefer not to travel by bus, they also offer rental cars and private taxi transfers at competitive prices.
Getting Around Santa Cruz on Buses
Buses in Santa Cruz are generally reliable, comfortable and convenient for getting around the city quickly and cheaply. The network covers all major tourist attractions in Santa Cruz, as well as connecting various locations such as hotels, shops and restaurants along the way.
The buses in Aruba start running at 5:00am and they run until at least 10:30pm. Times may vary depending on the season, so it is best to check with your bus operator before embarking on your journey. You can find out more information about bus routes in Aruba at www.arubabuses.com/routes.
Top Places To Visit by Bus in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a vibrant city with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to spend some time soaking up the sun on a white-sand beach – there’s plenty of attractions to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit on an Aruba bus tour:
National Archeological Museum of Aruba
The National Archeological Museum of Aruba offers a fascinating insight into the history of Aruba’s pre-Columbian culture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum to learn about traditional artifacts found on the Island, as well as admire its beautiful architecture. The museum’s collection encompasses over 1500 items unearthed during archaeological excavations on Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire.[https://www.arubamuseums.org/index_en.html]
Playa Bonanza Beach
If you’re looking for a tranquil place to relax and get away from it all;Playa Bonanza Beach is one of Aruba’s hidden gems. This secluded spot offers crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, as well as paddleboarding and windsurfing which makes it ideal for a beach vacation.[https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g147247-d6215631-Reviews-Playa_Bonanza-Palm-Eagle_Beach_Aruba.html]
Caves of Hato
For an exciting adventure unlike any other, visit the massive limestone Hato Caves on the north-western part of Santa Cruz. Here you will find fascinating rock formations, secret caves, underground rivers, beautiful stalagmites and stalactites, as well as unique rock formations carpeted with lush vegetation.[https://www.tripadvisor.co
Insider’s Guide to Aruba: Discovering Santa Cruz by Bus
Aruba, a small island in the Dutch Caribbean, is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, warm weather, and friendly people. While there are many popular tourist attractions, there are also many hidden gems in Santa Cruz, the island’s cultural heart. In this guide, we’ll share some insider tips to help you discover the best of Aruba by bus in Santa Cruz.
Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Santa Cruz
For travelers who want to experience the authentic Aruba, Santa Cruz is the perfect destination. One of the best-hidden gems in Santa Cruz is the Arikok National Park, which covers almost 20% of the island. The park is home to various attractions, including caves, rock formations, and natural pools. The Fontein Cave is one of the highlights, with underground water pools and beautiful limestone formations.
Another must-visit spot is the Bushiribana Ruins, a former gold mill ruins near Santa Cruz. While it may not be as famous as the Palm Beach hotels, it is a unique and fascinating historical site to explore.
Dining Spots: A World of Flavors
If you’re a foodie, you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the local Aruban cuisine in Santa Cruz. One of the most famous traditional dishes is keshi yena, stuffed cheese with meat, chicken, and vegetables. We recommend trying this dish at Warung Mini in Santa Cruz, where you can also enjoy other local dishes like ayaka and sopi mondongo.
For those looking for something sweet, don’t miss the chance to try a traditional Aruban dessert, pan bolo. This cake is made with coconut, raisins, and spices, and you can find it in many local bakeries.
Cultural Experiences: Festivals and Traditions
Aruba has a rich cultural heritage, and Santa Cruz is the best place to experience it. Carnival is one of the most popular cultural experiences, with vibrant parades, colorful costumes, and upbeat music. Kukoo Kunuku, a popular party bus that drives through the island, offers one of the most exciting ways to experience carnival in Aruba.
Another cultural highlight is the Dia di San Juan Festival, held in June. This festival celebrates John the Baptist, the patron saint of the island, with traditional food, music, and dancing. This festival is a must-see if you’re visiting Aruba in June.
Local History: Captivating Stories From the Past
Santa Cruz has a rich history that dates back to the pre-Columbian era. One of the most significant landmarks that signify Santa Cruz’s historical significance is the Alto Vista Chapel. This chapel is located on a hill and is the site of the first Catholic Church in Aruba, built by the Spanish in the 18th century.
Another fascinating historical site in Santa Cruz is the Aruba Model Train Museum. The museum showcases a collection of model trains that depict Aruba’s history dating back to the early 1900s. The museum is a fantastic place to learn about Aruba’s industrial past.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, we recommend taking a guided hike to the Natural Pool. This hidden gem is a natural pool formed by volcanic rock and is only accessible by foot or 4×4 vehicles.
Another unique experience is visiting the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba. This sanctuary houses over 600 wild donkeys and is a great place to learn about the conservation of this endangered species. You can even adopt a donkey and help support the sanctuary’s mission.
Conclusion
Santa Cruz is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the authentic Aruba. From hidden gems to cultural experiences and unique off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Santa Cruz offers something for everyone. Let this guide inspire you to explore the best of Aruba by bus and discover the heart of this beautiful island.
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