Arikok National Park, near the center of the island, contains the highest point in Aruba, Yamanota Hill (617 ft/188 m). The view of the resort area from the hill is magnificent. The rest of the park is fairly flat (with the exception of a few sand dunes), so you'll find the hiking trails relatively easy. Dress for the heat and take along sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water.
You'll want to see the restored cunucu house—made of mud, straw and cactus wood, and furnished as it was in bygone days. On a rise near the park entrance is a garden tended by Aruba's schoolchildren who are learning about agriculture. On the way out, you'll come to the Tunnel of Love, a 300-ft-/93-m-long cave with a heart-shaped entrance. It can be very low and narrow in places, so be careful.
Dirt roads are rutted and difficult to maneuver in several areas. A Jeep or other four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. Phone 297-585-1234. http://www.arubanationalpark.org.
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