Fofoti Tours & Transfers Aruba - Fofoti Tours Aruba

Respect Aruba

Education · Sustainability · Wildlife · Environment

A Traveler’s Guide to Nature, Culture & Sustainability. Learn how to protect Aruba’s environment, wildlife, and traditions while enjoying your visit.

Be a Responsible Traveler

Every mindful action protects Aruba’s beauty for future generations. Thank you for exploring respectfully and helping keep this island paradise sustainable.

1. Mangroves & Coastal Ecosystems

Where to find them: Mangel Halto, Spaans Lagoen
 Why they matter: Prevent erosion, filter water, and support marine life.
 Do: Use designated boardwalks or join guided kayak tours
Don’t: Paddle through roots, litter, or trample plants

2. Don’t Stack Rocks

Rock stacking may seem fun, but in Aruba it’s discouraged because it harms the environment. These piles disturb small animals like crabs, insects, and geckos that rely on rocks for shelter. Removing or rearranging them damages their fragile habitats. Stacking also misleads hikers and goes against Aruba’s environmental guidelines. Please help protect the island’s natural beauty by leaving rocks where they are.

4. Fofoti Tree

Nature's Compass

These iconic trees always point west due to trade winds.

Offer shade and prevent soil erosion
Do not carve into bark, hang hammocks, or break branches

5. Leave the Sand Behind

Taking sand, shells, or rocks from Aruba is illegal and harmful to the environment. Fines apply at customs. Take only memories, photos make better souvenirs.

6. Water Is Precious

Aruba relies on energy-heavy desalination for its drinking water.

Tap water is safe and clean
Use a reusable water bottle
Limit water use in showers and sinks

7. Say No to Single-Use Plastic

Plastic bags, straws, and foam containers are banned
Bring your own reusable bags, bottles, and containers
Dispose of all waste properly, biodegradable waste can harm nature

8. No Fires or Wild Camping

Due to the island’s dry terrain, wildfires are a serious risk.

Wild camping is prohibited
Join licensed tours or stay in designated campsites

9. Stay on Marked Trails

Especially in Arikok National Park, follow marked paths
Avoid off-roading outside approved areas
Listen to guides and avoid disturbing flora and fauna

10. Respect Local Culture

Aruba blends Caquetio heritage with Dutch and Caribbean influences.

Greet locals kindly and dress modestly in towns and villages
Always ask before photographing people or private homes

11. Coral Reefs

Use reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen
Never stand or lean on corals
Avoid wearing fins in shallow areas to prevent coral breakage

12. Sea Turtles

Nesting season: March to September

Respect signs that mark nests on beaches
Do not use flashlights or bright lights near the shore at night

13. Fragile Desert Vegetation

Do not pick plants or leave litter
Some cactus species have sharp spines or contain toxins, observe, don’t touch

14. Support Local & Responsible Businesses

Buy local handmade crafts and souvenirs
Avoid products made from coral, shells, or sand

3. Aruba's Unique Wildlife

Shoco (Aruban owl): Protected and endangered
Cascabel (Aruban rattlesnake): Rare, shy, and vital to the ecosystem
Aruban whiptail lizard: Endemic species, often seen in dry areas
Cave bats: Important for pollination
Note: Do not feed or interact with feral animals like donkeys, goats, or cats. Observe, don’t interfere.