Nestled on the rugged eastern shores of Aruba is a hidden gem you can't miss—a natural swimming pool with crystal clear, emerald waters, just begging for you to dive in. Known to locals as the Conchi Natural Pool, this unique oasis is tucked away in Arikok National Park and promises an unforgettable adventure for those ready to find it.
Your adventure to the Conchi Natural Pool starts with a buzz of excitement. The only way to get to this secluded spot is via a bumpy dirt road, so you'll need a 4x4 vehicle. Enter Arikok National Park through the San Fuego entrance, where you'll stop at the main park info building to grab your day passes and wristbands. With a park map in hand, you're ready to roll.
As you drive through the park, the scenery changes fast. The road starts out paved but soon turns into a gravel path winding around the Sero Arikok Volcano. The rugged terrain quickly shows why a high-clearance vehicle is a must. Signs along the way guide you toward Conchi, and eventually, you'll hit a point where only 4x4s can go. The road gets tougher, with big rocks and washed-out sections making the drive more exciting.
If you’re up for a more active way to get there, hiking to the Natural Pool is totally worth it. From the visitor center, the hike is about 3.5 miles (5.5 km), and starting early is key to avoid the midday heat. Some hikers park near the start of the 4x4 road to cut off about a mile of the trek. However you decide to go, the final approach includes a long set of well-kept stairs leading down to the shore.
When you finally reach the Natural Pool, it's a sight to behold. This peaceful swimming hole is protected from the rough surf by a bunch of rocks, creating a calm, clear pool. It’s oval-shaped, about 20 feet long and 25 feet wide, with a bigger lower pool and a smaller upper pool. The upper pool is shallow, perfect for a chill dip.
Swimming in the Natural Pool is like no other experience. The water is refreshingly cool, and the setting feels almost unreal. Many visitors head to the pool to swim and cool off after an ATV or Jeep tour. Cliff jumping is also a hit, with spots ranging from 5 to 15 feet above the water, depending on the tides. Just be careful—water shoes help with the slippery rocks, and it's important to stay within the protected pool area, as the surf outside can be dangerous.
For those wanting a guided adventure, ATV tours are an awesome way to get to the Natural Pool. The off-road capabilities of ATVs make them perfect for the rough terrain, and the tours are packed with fun.
While you're at the pool, a few tips come in handy. Bringing a wet bag for cameras and phones is smart since waves can crash over the rocks and soak anything left on the edges. And while it's safe to swim in the pool, steer clear of the jagged rocks and strong tides outside the protected area. Keeping an eye on kids and making sure they can swim is key, but they’ll be perfectly fine in the pool itself.
After your time at the pool, explore more of what Arikok National Park offers. Nearby, Dos Playa Beach, with its stunning sea cliffs and cool rock formations, is a must-visit. A short drive north of the park takes you to the Natural Bridge, a large stone arch formed by the sea, offering another breathtaking view. The park's Fontine Cave, with its otherworldly formations, is also worth checking out.
Your day at the Conchi Natural Pool will be packed with natural beauty, excitement, and a sense of discovery. Whether you're driving through the rugged roads in a 4x4 or hiking through the park, the journey is as rewarding as the destination. The Natural Pool isn’t just a place to swim; it’s a testament to Aruba's wild beauty and a reminder that the best experiences often come from the path less traveled.
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