Should You Do a Buggy Tour in Aruba?

A buggy tour gets you off the paved roads and into Aruba’s rough northern and eastern terrain in an open-air 4x4-style vehicle. Expect a mix of bumpy dirt tracks, short beach stops, and views of the rugged coastline, rock formations, and abandoned gold mines that most tourists never see. The drive itself is loud, dusty, and surprisingly fun if you like that sort of thing, but it’s not a relaxing sightseeing trip. Tours usually last 2–3 hours and include a guide who points out a few sights and makes sure you don’t flip the buggy.

The best time is January through April when it’s dry and the dirt tracks are less likely to turn into mud. Expect to pay around $90–$160 per person depending on group size, vehicle type, and whether it includes drinks or snacks. Private tours sit at the higher end.

Tip: Choose the smaller open buggies over the giant group “trucks” if you want actual driving fun instead of just being a passenger. Skip the ones that add a long snorkel stop unless you specifically want water time; they often feel rushed and eat into the off-road portion. Bring a bandana or buff for the dust and wear closed-toe shoes.