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Arikok National Park
The Arikok National Park in central part of the island, near Santa Cruz, is a natural preserve of national ecological significance. Together with the Coastal Protection Zone, this national park covers around 25 percent area of the island. It was first designated as an area of environmental importance in the early 1980's. It has a unique scenic beauty with varied flora & fauna, and geological formations.
There is a large variety of indigenous flora like the divi-divi and kwihi trees, rare and exotic cacti, aloe, tropical flowers, and is also the habitat for certain exclusive species of birds and iguanas. There are some interesting rock formations here, and also can be observed are Amerindian art & Arawak drawings. Also found are some cultural resources like an old Aruban "cunucu" house, "cas ditorta," made of mud and grass. Arikok and Jamanota hilltops, the highest on the island, are also located within the park.
There are some well-laid & well-kept trails open to the public for exploring the park. It is quite safe if you stay on the main path. You may find some big green lizards but they are harmless like most of the other animals that inhabit the area. Some tour companies also offer guided tours through this national protected area.Bubali Bird Sanctuary
This sanctuary is home to many species of local & migratory birds. It is a lush, tropical area amidst the generally dry and arid island. Generous vegetation here has made this a resting and breeding place for more than 200 species of migratory birds. Birds that inhabit the sanctuary include parakeets, herons, egrets, gulls, skimmers, coots, cormorants, numerous species of ducks and more. A water treatment facility supplies water to the two inter-connected man-made lakes, known as the large and small Bubali Bird Ponds. An observation tower has been erected here to facilitate bird watching. Be sure to bring your binoculars.
