If you’re searching for a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience in Aruba, our Spanish Lagoon Mangrove Trail & Bird Watching Tour offers an unmatched blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural discovery. Provided by Aruba Wave Dancer, this guided walk takes you deep into one of the island’s most important wetlands—a peaceful refuge for birds, mangroves, and history lovers alike.
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On this 4 km (2.5-mile) hike, you’ll walk alongside centuries-old mangroves, spot Aruba’s national bird—the Shoco (Burrowing Owl)—and uncover traces of Amerindian shell middens and colonial gold mining ruins.
Guided by one of our expert naturalists, this semi-private or private tour offers a unique perspective on Aruba’s lesser-known east coast. Ideal for early risers and nature enthusiasts, it’s a gentle adventure with a lot to offer.
What You’ll See:
Tour Details:
“Jorge was so knowledgeable and made this hike absolutely wonderful. We absolutely recommend it. It made us discover a little know part of the island. We so many different birds and the mangrove trail is so different.”
We consistently earn five-star reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google for our eco-conscious, small group experiences. Our guests love how our tours connect them to Aruba’s untouched nature in a personal, meaningful way.
At Aruba Wave Dancer, we started as a humble kayak tour company offering water-based eco-adventures. But our love for Aruba’s land-based beauty quickly inspired us to expand into hiking and wellness tours—all guided by the same eco-friendly principles that shaped our kayaking roots.
Our mission is to help you experience Aruba through its natural and cultural heartbeat. Every experience we offer is crafted to be:
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The Spanish Lagoon (Spaans Lagoen) is one of Aruba’s last remaining natural inland lagoons. This area was declared a protected wetland and RAMSAR site due to its high biodiversity and ecological significance.
Here, the mangroves serve as nurseries for marine life, protect the coast from erosion, and create a lush, shaded corridor where wildlife thrives. It’s also one of the best places on the island to spot native and migratory birds.
Historical Significance:
Whether you’re a birder, historian, or photographer, the Spanish Lagoon delivers both natural richness and cultural depth.
This tour is a must for bird watchers. Aruba’s Burrowing Owl (Shoco) is a charming, ground-dwelling species endemic to the island and commonly found nesting near the trail.
Other species you might see:
Bring your binoculars and camera—you’ll want to capture the vibrant wildlife in this serene setting.
Aruba’s beauty is not infinite. Increasing tourism and development pressure threaten its fragile habitats, especially wetlands like the Spanish Lagoon. That’s why eco-tourism is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity.
At Aruba Wave Dancer, we are committed to:
Every guest we take on a mangrove hike or birding walk leaves with more than just photos—they leave with a sense of responsibility and connection to Aruba’s natural world.
To enjoy your time comfortably and safely, we recommend bringing:
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: ~4 km / 2.5 miles
Tour Time: 7:30 AM or 8:30 AM
Duration: 3.5 hours (including transport)
Includes: Water, fruit, expert guide
Whether you’re an avid birder or a curious traveler looking to slow down and explore, the Spanish Lagoon Mangrove Trail & Bird Watching Tour is a refreshing break from the beach scene. It’s a chance to connect with Aruba’s rich natural world—and with yourself.
Book the Spanish Lagoon Tour Now
Take a walk where few visitors go—and see a side of Aruba that’s ancient, alive, and absolutely unforgettable.
