Tucked away on the eastern coast of Aruba, in a basin formed by volcanic rock and fed by water from the Caribbean Sea, the Natural Pool is as simple as its name implies—but sometimes simple is simply the best. Unreachable by car, a trip to the Natural Pool in Arikok National Park is all about the adventure through Aruba’s less disturbed countryside, with a dip in pristine waters awaiting those who make the off-the-beaten-track journey.
Because it is impossible to reach the Natural Pool by car, you must be game for adventure to get to this natural paradise. Rugged tours in off-road vehicles like 4x4s, ATVs, and UTVs offer the fastest and easiest rides, and often combine a trip to the Natural Pool with other nearby attractions like the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, California Lighthouse, Baby Beach, Natural Bridge, and Alto Vista Chapel. If you prefer a slower ride, you can travel through Arikok National Park by horseback to reach the Natural Pool, taking more time to enjoy the views of Moro Beach, distinct rock formations, and the Arikok Hills along the way. And if you don’t want to rough it, look for a more luxurious Land Rover tour with a driver. Regardless of how you get there, you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling upon arrival.
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The Natural Pool is a must-see for nature lovers and those wanting outdoor adventure in Aruba.
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Although the pool is small, its waves can be mighty—swim only when the waves are calm.
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The pool is not accessible to wheelchair users due to the hike and many stairs that lead to the site.
Because you cannot reach the Natural Pool by car, it is best to book a horseback riding tour or ATV tour to get you there safely, and with the added benefit of a tour guide to lead the way.
Thanks to Aruba’s temperate climate, visitors can expect warm weather and sunshine anytime outside of the rainy season, which runs from late October to January (though showers are often only sporadic and at night).
The Natural Pool is also known locally as “Conchi” or “Cura di Tortuga,” because it is said that the pool was once used to hold sea turtles before they were sold. (Tortuga means turtle in Papiamento, the official language of Aruba.)
