“Golden ruins, coastal winds, and legends whispered across the hills, this is Santa Cruz.”
Drive through Aruba’s Santa Cruz and step into a world where history, nature, and myth meet. From abandoned gold mills to windswept cliffs, every corner of the island holds a story waiting to be discovered. Hear how the Arawak people lived here, how Spanish explorers impacted the island, and the daring tales of pirates who sailed these waters.
This self-guided audio tour lets you explore at your own pace. Learn about shipwrecks, storms, and hidden treasures while taking in views that will leave you breathless.
Walk through history at the Bushiribana Ruins, where Aruba’s 1800s gold rush comes alive. Cruise along the rugged coast and discover the island’s natural arches and dramatic cliffs. Hear true pirate legends, the myths of Sir Francis Drake, and secrets of the Golden Age of Piracy. Stop at a donkey sanctuary for a family-favorite pause and pass the Spanish Lagoon while learning about a haunted treasure. Marvel at Hooiberg Lookout, towering over 500 feet, and take in sweeping vistas that stretch across the island. Along the way, your guide shares stories of abandoned gold mills, local sports, and the natural forces that shaped Santa Cruz.
Heads up: The views are so amazing, your camera will work overtime. Expect to take a lot of photos.
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Nearby Tours
Driving
20
1 - 2 Hours
Walking
10
30 mins - 1 Hour Hours
Where To Start?
Aruba Santa Cruz: Bushiribana Ruins, Noord, Aruba
The tour starts near the Bushiribana Ruins. Please note that this is our suggested starting point. We are not affiliated with any businesses or staff in the area, so they will not have information about this tour.
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome
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Bushiribana Gold Mill
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Not So Uninhabited After All
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Spanish Occupation
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Natural Bridge & Hurricanes on the High Seas
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Francis Drake vs Spanish
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Pirate vs Privateer: What’s the Difference?
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Dutch & the Golden Age
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Pirate Myths
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El Nino & La Nina
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Shipwrecks - Antilla
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Donkey Sanctuary
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Franse Pas
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Pirates of Frenchman's Pass
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Buried Treasure in the Spanish Lagoon
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Balashi Gold Mill
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Airplane Wrecks
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Beach Sanctuary
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Aruba’s Many Languages
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Hooiberg
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Conclusion
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The tour begins at the Bushiribana Ruins in Noord, Aruba.
The Bushiribana Ruins were once an abandoned gold mill, and they are significant because they provide insights into the island’s 1800s gold rush and how it transformed Aruba’s history.
The coastal drive covers the history of the Arawak people, the Spanish occupation of Aruba, and the effects of powerful storms on the island.
The tour discusses the many shipwrecks around Aruba and their significance in the island’s history and maritime lore.
The tour includes a stop at a donkey sanctuary, which is a well-liked destination for families.
Visitors can take in breathtaking scenery and take pictures at the Hooiberg Lookout, a rock formation that rises more than 500 feet above sea level.
World War I is discussed in relation to the demise of one of the abandoned gold mills, shedding light on its historical context.
Yes, the tour explains the difference between El Niño and La Niña years and discusses their causes, providing insights into weather patterns in the region.
The best time to start the tour is in the morning, allowing you to enjoy the scenic drive and attractions with ample daylight.
This self-guided driving tour doesn’t have any strict rules. But it’s best to have a reliable car and a smartphone with a tour guide app that is fully charged.
The length of the tour depends on how long you spend at each stop, but it usually takes between 2 and 3 hours to finish.
Yes, the tour can be done in reverse if you prefer to start at the Hooiberg Lookout and end at the Bushiribana Ruins. The tour guide app provides flexibility in navigation.
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
