Spanish Lagoon Mangrove Trail & Bird Watching

4.7 (22 reviews) 2–3 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

22 reviews

4.7

mangrove aruba — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Balashi Gold Smelter — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Spanish Lagoon Mangrove Tour & Bird Watching

Explore the serene Spanish Lagoon, a protected wetland rich in history and wildlife. This guided tour takes you along a scenic mangrove trail to discover ancient Amerindian shell middens, the historic Balashi Gold Smelter Ruins, and the mysterious Frenchman’s Pass.

Bird watchers will delight in spotting Aruba’s iconic burrowing owl (Shoco), vibrant tropical birds like the troupial and bananaquit, and migratory species such as egrets and sandpipers. Learn about the mangrove ecosystem and its unique biodiversity from expert guides.

Highlights: Unearth Aruba’s ancient history, enjoy bird-watching opportunities, and experience the beauty of the island’s only inland water area. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts alike, this memorable walk offers a fascinating glimpse into Aruba’s natural and cultural heritage.

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At a glance

Duration: 2–3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 10 people
People per booking: 1–7
Guide: English, Dutch, Spanish
Operated by: Aruba Nature Adventures

Ages: Children (5–12 years) · Adults (18–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Water and fruit

Not included

Not included: Tour guide Tips :)

Itinerary

Pos Chiquito

30 min

We start at the Local TV sender, TeleAruba in Pos Chiquito, and from there we start the hiking along the Spanish lagoon and go upstairs to the old bridge and have the view of the begging of the Spanish lagoon
Stop 2

1 h 30 min

After passing the new bridge under, then we hike along the Spanish lagoon mangrove trail.

We will pass along one of the oldest Aloe Farms at the top before we head back down to meet the trail again.

At that point, you will see one of the 7 shell middens located at the Spanish Lagoon that has been carbon-dated between 1465 - 1280 BC

Proceeding inland along the mangrove trail you will see quite different flora and fauna as this is our only inland water area on the island.

You will also see a point in the trail where they loaded the barges with the gold to take out to the ships over 100 years ago.

At the end of this amazing trail we will pass by the protected “Shoco” nest area. If we are very lucky and very quiet we can see these amazing creatures. Aruba’s national symbol is the Shoco. This burrowing owl is only found in Aruba and is the most photogenic animal on the planet. A true pleasure to see.
Balashi Gold Mill Ruins

30 min

We visit the ruins of the Old Balashi Gold Smelter Ruins. Right next to the old French men's pass.

There is a great story of the haunted Frenchman’s Pass that you will hear first as it is located next to the head waters.

Then we will show you the old ruins of the Balashi Gold smelter. Much it is still there to see.

From there we will hike up along the ridge overlooking the whole Spanish Lagoon area. Best spots for your vacation sightseeing pictures.

The Bushiribana smelter was built in 1825 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company to extract gold from the ore that was being mined in the nearby hills of Ceru Plat. It operated for ten years. The site has beautiful views and rich history also a great view of the Spanish Lagoon

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Coconut Inn
Apartment With Pool
Playa Linda Beach Resort
Aruba Ocean Villas
Andicuri Inn
Hotel Riu Palace Antillas
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-beach Resort & Casino
Divi Village Golf And Beach Resort
Astoria Hotel & Restaurant
Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive
Bluegreen at La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino

and 55 more pickup points

Important Information for Your Tour

Hotel Pickup: Pickup from your hotel will be scheduled 30 to 45 minutes before the departure time, depending on your hotel location.

Towels Required: All guests must bring towels. Passengers without towels will not be allowed to board the transportation.

Punctuality Matters:

Please arrive on time—the driver will wait a maximum of 10 minutes.

If you miss the pickup, transportation will be at your own expense. However, if you manage to arrive at the departure point on time, you can still join the tour.

Booking Confirmation: After booking, always confirm your pickup location to avoid delays.