It is one of the happiest islands in the Caribbean and one of the best biking destinations in the world. Aruba is well-known for its first-class beaches, gorgeous weather, and adoring culture. However, the Aruba Effect can be felt in many other interests, and biking is one of them.
The island’s diverse scenery and landscape are a perfect match for cyclists looking for a bit of rest and relaxation, sightseeing and exercise. In fact, this perfect match would not be complete without the many bike routes in Aruba that make cycling around the island, the fulfilling adventure that it is.
Bike Routes in Aruba
Cyclists have been exploring the length and width of Aruba for several years. They have biked along the coastline, taken detours through the bush, sped along paved roads, and cycled through plains filled with cacti. Although the island is small, these diverse landscapes are still memorable backdrops for those keen on exploring by bike. If a cycling holiday is on your bucket list, here is a list of the 10 best bike routes in Aruba.
- West Punt to Alto Vista Chapel
- Tribu Trail East to West
- Bushiribana to Malmok Beach
- Oranjestad to Conchi MTB
- Hotel Area to the California Lighthouse
- San Nicholas to Seroe Colorado Lighthouse
- Around the Island (Rondje Aruba)
- Downtown Aruba
- Manchebo Beach to the California Lighthouse
1. West Punt to Alto Vista Chapel
The bike trail from West Punt to Alto Vista is a diverse trail that is also popular with hikers and trekkers. The trail is approximately 8.6 miles long and the average cyclist takes 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. This bike route is a combination of two routes which were linked for a longer bike ride. One of the points of interest along the route is the Alto Vista Chapel.
2. Tribu Trail East to West
The Tribu Trail East to West is one of the shorter bike routes in Aruba. Although it takes the average bicyclist 40 minutes to complete, it can be a physical challenge for beginner riders. The trail starts on a beach on the northeast coast of Aruba and makes it way to the West Punt area. This trail is suitable for mountain bikes only, and it can be traversed in both directions.
3. Bushiribana to Malmok Beach
There is another bike route on Aruba’s northeast coast, but this time it takes in the coastal beauty of the island. The Bushiribana to Malmok Beach trail starts at the ostrich farm and is a 9.2 mile ride to Malmok Beach. Along the way, you will pass what’s left of the Bushiribana gold mine, Wariruri Bay, Boedoei Beach and the California Lighthouse. This is a moderately challenging route, but experienced bikers will enjoy the challenge.
4. Oranjestad to Conchi MTB
The trail from Oranjestad to Conchi MTB is one of the longest bike routes in Aruba. It is estimated to be 34.4 miles long and can be very challenging. This is partially due to an elevation gain of 1,169 miles. However, it one of the most beautiful trails because it is a fulfilling sightseeing tour of Aruba. The tour begins in the capital city of Oranjestad, eases through the famous Arikok National Park, climbs over the steep Sero Arikok, visits Conchi, a clear water natural pool, and then heads to the north of the island for more sights and sounds.
5. Hotel Area to the California Lighthouse
Many of the bike routes in Aruba lead to the California Lighthouse. However, if you are interested in a self-guided tour, you can hop on a Green Bike and head to the lighthouse. Green Bike provides a detailed riding guide from the major hotels to the lighthouse. Some of the interesting sights in Aruba along the route are Malmok Beach, Boca Catalina Beach. On your way back you can stop at Dushi Bagels & Burgers for a meal and beverages.
Booking.com6. San Nicholas to Seroe Colorado Lighthouse
For a southern bike tour, you can plan a tour from San Nicolas to the Seroe Colorado Lighthouse. There are a few bike rental companies in the San Nicholas area, who offer affordable rentals. On the route from San Nicolas to the lighthouse, you will pass several attractions. These include Bachelor’s Beach, Grapefield Beach, the oldest golf club in the island, and the Valero Aruba Oil Refinery.
7. Around the Island (Rondje Aruba)
If you are in the mood for a round-the-island excursion, Tri-Bike has the ultimate outdoor biking adventure. It is best suited for fit cyclists who have the stamina to withstand long rides. Rondje Aruba is approximately 47.2 miles long and takes 4 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The tours starts in the centre of Aruba, heads down the west coast, hits the south coast, back up on the east coast to the north, then down the west back to the starting point.
8. Downtown Aruba
The Downtown Aruba tour is a perfect way to explore the city by bike. It is also ideal for bikers who want a leisurely ride that they can complete without a guide. All you have to do is rent a Green Bike and follow their free downloadable tour guide with thorough directions and points of interests to look out for. Some of the points of interest include historical sites, shops, and beaches. The tour begins and ends at the Dutch Pancakehouse station.
9. Manchebo Beach to the California Lighthouse
Another northern bike tour is the one that starts at Manchebo Beach and ends at the California Lighthouse. This is a scenic route complete with the best beaches in Aruba. You will see Eagle Beach, Hadicurari Beach, Malmok Beach, Boca Cataline Beach and Arashi Beach. The rewarding highlight of the ride is the California Lighthouse, at which point you can decide whether to continue exploring or return to base.
Further Reading
For more information about biking and bike routes in Aruba, visit the following links:
Aruba: Bike Tours in Aruba
Visit Aruba: Biking and Cycling in Aruba
All Trails: Best Mountain Biking Trails in Aruba
Tri-Bike Aruba: Bike Routes
TrailForks: Aruba Mountain Biking Trails
When in Aruba: Aruba–Great Reasons To Bike Ride Here
Beaches of Aruba: Mountain Biking in Aruba
Cranky’s Corner: Cycling in Aruba
Image: Aruba Tourism Authority