Step back in time and explore Aruba’s gold rush history on an unforgettable Bushiribana Hiking Tour Aruba. This scenic and cultural adventure takes you through ancient gold trails, historic dig sites, and stunning landscapes. Walk the paths once traveled by miners and donkeys, transporting gold ore to the Bushiribana Gold Mill.
In the early 1800s, Aruba had no refineries or tourism industry—only farmers and fishermen. That changed in 1824, when a young boy, Willem Rasmijn, discovered gold in a dry creek bed. This moment launched Aruba’s gold mining era, lasting until 1916.
Over the years, several enterprises excavated different areas, leaving behind dig sites and ruins that tell the story of Aruba’s gold rush history.
The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins mark the starting point of your journey. This historical landmark was once a thriving gold processing mill along Aruba’s north coast. Here, you will get a glimpse of how primitive gold mining was in the 1800s.
From Bushiribana, the hike will take you:
Heading east, we pass Boca Mahos and climb to Matividiri, where a large excavation site still stands. The dry creek beds here once hid rich gold deposits.
The trail continues to Kadushi, where you will find multiple dig sites along a large gold vein. This vein stretches toward Sero Crystal and Sero Gerard, two key mining locations. Miners once hauled tons of ore on donkeys, following these very trails to reach Bushiribana Gold Mill.
On the return hike, you will pass through Boedoei, a lush green savanna unlike any other part of Aruba. This was a major transport route for gold ore, offering a surprising contrast to the island’s arid landscape.
Returning to Bushiribana, you will gain a new appreciation for the labor-intensive process of extracting gold. See firsthand the structures where rocks were crushed and gold was separated from the ore.
After the hike, relax and enjoy a delicious meal at a local café near the ruins. Reflect on your journey and take in the stunning views of Aruba’s rugged coastline.
This tour is perfect for history lovers, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts who want to experience a different side of Aruba.
