Welcome to the Aruba Santa Cruz Self-Guided Driving Tour
Embark on a swashbuckling adventure across Aruba with this self-guided driving tour. Visit the ruins of abandoned gold mills and uncover how the precious metal shaped the island’s history. Take in amazing views of the coastline and Aruba’s striking landscape. And, of course, sift through the mythology to dig up the truth of the Golden Age of Piracy.
About the Tour
Your tour begins at the Bushiribana Ruins in Noord. Here, you’ll get the history of this abandoned gold mill and how an 1800s gold rush transformed the island. From there, you’ll head along the island’s coast and hear about the Arawak people and the Spanish occupation of Aruba.
Then you’ll see the remains of what was once a natural arch along Aruba’s coast and find out what its destruction can tell us about the powerful storms the island is often subject to.
As you continue, you’ll hear all about Sir Francis Drake, the Golden Age of Piracy, and the many myths which have obscured the truth of this period in history. Plus, learn the difference between El Niño and La Niña years and find out what causes them.
Get some insight into the many shipwrecks around Aruba, then stop at a family-favorite attraction: A donkey sanctuary!
Next, cruise through a picturesque pass between two cliffs and hear the dramatic story behind its name. After that, swing by the Spanish Lagoon as your audio guide recounts the local legend of a haunted, hidden treasure.
Then, pass another abandoned gold mill and learn what World War I had to do with its demise. After that, hear about Aruba’s big tennis tournament and the unexpected twist they place on the sport.
Finally, you’ll arrive at the Hooiberg Lookout, a rock formation rising more than 500 feet above sea level. Snap some pictures and take in the views! Your tour concludes here.
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Where To Start?
For Best Experience, we recommend starting from: Bushiribana Ruins
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 there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- 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.
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 by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
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: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
