Exploring Aruba: Best of Aruba by Bus in Santa Cruz

When it comes to the Caribbean, Aruba is the ultimate paradise, boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire region. With so many wonderful things to see and do on the island, it can be hard to decide which ones to see first or what kind of transportation to take. For those who are traveling to Aruba and are interested in exploring the best of the island by bus, we’ve created this guide to help get you started.

Santa Cruz is known for being the island’s most vibrant town. It is located in Coromoto Parish, which is south of the capital Oranjestad and has a population of around 5,000 people. The city has plenty of things to offer, from colorful markets and delicious food to stunning landscapes and historic landmarks.

When planning an itinerary for a trip to Aruba, one of the first decisions that needs to be made is how you’re going to get around. While hiring a car would be the most convenient option, traveling by bus has its own unique appeal. Public buses here are cheap, reliable and a great way to get a feel for the local culture. The Santa Cruz Bus System consists of four different lines which cover the entire island. Whether you’re looking to explore Oranjestad or take a day trip to San Nicolas, these buses will get you where you need to go.

The Aruba Bus website provides passengers with valuable information regarding fares and timetables. The ticket price for adult passengers is $2.25 per ride, while children (6-11 years) get a discounted rate of $1.15. There are also tickets for visitors which cost $7 for one day and can be purchased from bus drivers.

The bus lines are identified by a combination of numbers and colors. The #1 line (yellow) runs between Oranjestad and San Nicolas, stopping at all major attractions on the way. The #2 line (orange) goes from Oranjestad to Bugibba and makes several stops in between. The #3 line (red) runs along the eastern coast, while the #4 line (black) goes from San Nicolas back to Oranjestad, making all the stops in between.

In addition to the regularly scheduled buses, there are also other forms of transportation available throughout Santa Cruz. There are a number of taxi services that offer their services in the city, as well as car rental agencies.

One of the best ways to check out Aruba’s incredible landscape is by taking a sightseeing tour with ‘Best of Aruba by Bus’ During this 4-hour tour, passengers will get to explore all of the major attractions in and around Santa Cruz, such as Aruba’s iconic natural bridge, the Alto Vista Chapel and Palomino Island Natural Reserve. The tour also includes a stop at a local restaurant for lunch and stops for photos at some of the most breathtaking spots in town. Guests will be picked up from their hotel or accommodation in the morning and dropped off at their destination in the afternoon.

One of the highlights of traveling by bus in Santa Cruz is that you can observe life unfolding in its everyday moments—meeting locals and immersing yourself in the culture of Aruba. It is also a great way to save money as public buses are very affordable compared to renting a car or taking a taxi where prices can quickly add up.

Exploring Aruba by bus is a great way to get an authentic experience of this enchanting Caribbean paradise. With affordable tickets, regular timetables and pleasant drivers, it is an ideal way to tour Santa Cruz and experience all that it has to offer. Be sure to book a day tour with ‘Best of Aruba by Bus’ for an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!

A Local’s Insider Guide to Aruba

As an Aruba local, I’m excited to share a few of the hidden gems, traditions, and foodie delights that this island paradise offers to all its visitors. Aruba is more than just a tropical paradise for sun worshippers; it’s a cultural melting pot packed with history, folklore, and fascinating stories.

Local Attractions: From Hidden Beaches to Unique Museums

If you’re willing to explore a little beyond the usual tourist spots, Aruba has an entire plethora of hidden treasures that only the locals know about. Start with Boca Prins National Park, where visitors can go on guided hiking trails and watch exotic birds. The Arikok National Park, a 7909-acre nature reserve, and home to lizards, snakes, and iguanas, is a must-visit. Take a guided tour of the abandoned gold mines in Bushiribana, or try your luck at gold panning at the ruins of the Balashi gold smelter.

Another unique attraction in Aruba is the Museum of Industry, where detailed exhibits showcase the island’s historical advancements in technology and innovation. A visit to the Cosecha Museum provides insight into the island’s farm and agriculture history, with exhibits of vintage farming equipment, furniture, and an exhibit of locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Dining Spots: Exploring the Best of Aruba’s Food Scene

Being a melting pot of cultures, Aruba’s food scene is exciting and varied—try the Caribbean-style barbecue at Smokey Joe’s Island Grill or sample some delicious seafood at Zeerovers, a casual seafood shack serving up fresh fish, shrimp, and lobster. Venture north to the charming coastal town of Savaneta and indulge in the local delicacy “codfish cakes” at Old Man and The Sea Grill.

If you’re in search of something sweet, head to Superfood, a local grocery store located in the heart of Oranjestad, to sample their decadent stroopwafels (caramel waffle cookies). For those of you with a love for chocolate, head to the Chocolates and Happiness factory and sample some unique chocolate combinations; they even offer craft chocolate-making workshops!

Cultural Experiences: From Carnivals to Colorful Street Art

Aruba’s culture is diverse and vibrant, and there are plenty of ways to experience it. Attend the national carnival festival held in January, where locals and visitors come together in a colorful parade showcasing Aruba’s heritage. Art enthusiasts can appreciate Aruba’s street art culture, which is unparalleled; you’ll find murals and graffiti adorning various buildings across the island.

If you love music, attend the renowned Heineken Jazz festival held in September. Learn about the history of Oranjestad at the Historical Museum or visit the local artist community area in San Nicolas for a taste of local arts and crafts.

Local History: From Piracy to War, Aruba’s History is Colorful

Aruba has a rich and complex history – from pirate attacks to war and colonization – with captivating stories waiting to be told. Visit Fort Zoutman, where you’ll learn about the island’s history of war and conquest, or check out the California Lighthouse, named after a British ship that sank off the coast in the 19th century.

Another captivating spot to visit is the Alto Vista Chapel, built-in 1750 by the Spanish missionary Domingo Antonio Silvestre. Legend has it that the chapel is on the site where the first Spanish missionaries landed in Aruba in 1499.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discovering the Hidden Charms of Aruba

For a unique Aruba experience, rent a kayak and paddle through the beautiful mangrove tunnels located in Spanish Lagoon, or take a horseback ride through Arikok National Park, where you’ll experience the natural beauty of Aruba’s rocky terrain.

Another off-the-beaten-path gem is the Fontein Cave, located in Arikok National Park, where you’ll get to explore ancient Native American paintings depicting human figures and animals.

Aruba is an island that’s full of surprises, and there’s so much to explore beyond its beautiful beaches. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the vibrant culture, history, and hidden gems of this tropical paradise!