Don’t be fooled by the photos you see online. This rock might look underwhelming in pictures, but I strongly consider you to give it a chance. I visited the Casibari Aruban Rock Formation as part of a bus trip with El Tours Aruba. If not for the tour, we probably would not have put any extra effort into visiting this spot. Surprisingly, it turned out to be one of my favorite attractions on the island! The rock formation is made of tonalite and is a natural result of volcanic activity many years ago.
The rock formation is surrounded by a cacti garden, which is lovely to walk through on its own, if you aren’t a fan of heights. We stopped to take a few photos in the garden. We found some interesting rock formations and the largest cactus I have ever seen.
After snapping a few photos, I climbed a few steps to the top of this rock formation. The climb up really only takes a few minutes, probably about 5. There is a rockier path which requires some flexibility and maneuvering or a set of stairs on the backside of the rock which is a little friendlier to climbers. Once you reach the top you have a breathtaking view of the garden below, haystack mountain, the villages of Aruba, and the island! It’s quit windy up top though, so don’t bring your hat.
The top of the rock is not large and you probably won’t spend too much time up there. I’ve seen people refer to this destination as a day trip. We only spent about 15 minutes there, but you could certainly stay a bit longer to explore the gardens. After exploring the site, you might choose to grab a bite at the Casibari Cafe across the street where you can dine atop another large boulder in the desert.
Sally says
What a gorgeous view from up top of the mountain peak and the village surrounds. This looks like a really unique place to visit whilst in Aruba.
Sally says
What a gorgeous view from up top of the mountain peak and the village surrounds. This looks like a really unique place to visit whilst in Aruba. I hope to get there someday!
Iuliana Marchian says
I’m so glad that you had the chance to visit the Casibari Aruban Rock Formation. Wherever I go my first priority is to rent a car so that I can be flexible and explore unknown places or just stop if I see something that seems interesting. I like very much the costume (I hope that’s the name in English) with dark blue and flowers. It makes the photos very colorful 😉
Sally says
Honestly, I don’t know much about Aruba but I definitely had it stereotyped as one giant Caribbean beach. Looks like I was wrong on that front! Such a unique place to visit and how cool that the formation is surrounded by a cacti garden – haven’t seen that before! I definitely need to visit one day!
nicki says
I would have never guessed that this was Aruba! It looks more like a desert climate. This definitely adds an element of interest in the country as I thought it would just be pristine beaches.
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
Yeah, I had no idea it was like that. I should have done more research before going, but definitely drove through a few cactus jungles.
Tara says
I love attractions like these for quick trips – your photos are gorgeous, and I especially love the one with that gargantuan cactus.
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
That lovely cactus really needs a name. Such a special one.
Aparna says
That cactus is absolutely giant!!! Sounds like a fun day, I would definitely consider it if I ever make my way there!
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
I don’t know much about cacti, so I didn’t even realize how unusual it was to see one so large until the comments came flooding in.
Candy says
I’ve never been, but it looks like a fun spot to visit. I am a huge fan of catci, so I would go just for that and the rock formation would be a bonus 🙂
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
I don’t know if you saw but in one of the pics from the top there’s an ENORMOUS flat circular cactus. I should learn its name. Haha Wish I had more pics of it. Didn’t even notice it until I was looking at photos.
Izzy says
I think people are quick to knock rock formations but personally, I’m a huge fan of geological wonders and I think I would enjoy it all the more with those beautiful cacti shrubs! Your romper is stunning by the way! The azure blue really compliments your hair color!
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
Thank you. You’re so sweet. And maybe we’re just nerds, but I am with you. I was quite surprised how much I love this spot though. it was really breathtaking.
Paige Wunder says
I think you’re right that photos can be underwhelming of the formation itself, but I’ve had that experience with several things. And, unfortunately the reverse, when a photo is unreal but you get there and it’s not great at all. I think the views around the formation are totally worth the visit. I love cacti, so I’m sold right then and there!
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
Yeah. When I was in Australia I thought the photos of Whitsunday were photoshopped. But no. That is still the most beautiful place I’ve ever been on earth.
Andreea Bujor says
I would definitely love to visit the villages of Aruba, the place looks amazing. I haven’ t been yet to this part of the world but i’m dreaming i’ll reach one day. I always like to see/climb big rocks, very cool place.
nycgingeronthego@gmail.com says
If you make it, you need to check out the natural pool. It’s a great place for someone who likes to climb on the rocks.