Hiking

Aruba's arid and rugged countryside is full of flora and fauna. Arikok National Wildlife Park is an excellent place to glimpse the real Aruba; start at the visitor center to get guidance and maps, or see their website for online trails maps (www.arubanationalpark.org). The heat can be oppressive, so be sure to take it easy, wear a hat, wear plenty of sunscreen, and have lots of water handy. A guided hike will show you where to find the island’s elusive but interesting wildlife in the arid outback.

Nature Sensitive Tours. Eddy Croes, a former park ranger whose passion for nature is infectious, runs this outfitter with care. Groups are never larger than eight people, so you'll see as much detail as you can handle. The hikes are done at an easy pace and are suitable for just about anyone. Moonlight tours also available. If you'd rather not hike, Eddy also has a 4x4 monster jeep–guided tour of the arid outback for up to 20 people as well. Pos Chiquito 13E, Savaneta, n/a Aruba. 297/585–1594; www.naturesensitivetours.com.