The Natural Pool — known locally as Conchi — is Aruba’s most breathtaking natural attraction. Tucked inside Arikok National Park on the island’s rugged north coast, this volcanic rock pool fills with crystal-clear ocean water through a natural opening in the rocks. It’s remote, wild, and completely unlike anything you’ll find on Palm Beach — and that’s exactly the point.
What Is the Natural Pool?
The Natural Pool (Conchi) is a protected seawater pool formed by volcanic rock formations along Aruba’s wild northeast coastline. The surrounding rocks shield it from the crashing Atlantic waves, creating a calm swimming and snorkeling spot in an otherwise dramatic landscape. Colorful tropical fish, coral, and the occasional sea turtle can be spotted inside the pool.
The pool sits inside Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island. Getting there requires crossing desert terrain, limestone trails, and dry river beds — which is why you need either a 4WD vehicle, a guided tour, or a horse.
How to Get to the Natural Pool
There are three ways to reach Conchi:
1. Guided UTV or Jeep Tour (Most Popular)
The most popular option by far. Professional guides take you deep into the national park in UTVs, ATVs, or Land Cruisers — vehicles purpose-built for the terrain. Most tours also include stops at the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, sea caves, Ayo Rock Formation, and sometimes Baby Beach.
- ThrillSeekers: UTV Tour & Cliff Jump at Natural Pool — Tripadvisor’s World Top 20 off-road experience. Drive a premium Honda Talon, then board a Monster Truck for the final approach to Conchi. Includes cliff jumping into the pool. 6 hours.
- Natural Pool and Indian Cave Rugged Jeep Safari — Half-day Land Cruiser tour led by professional local guides. Great for those who want to ride rather than drive. Includes snorkeling in the pool. 4.5 hours.
- Aruba UTV Tour with Natural Cave Pool and Cliff Jumping — Also visits Phillips Animal Garden where you can feed exotic animals. Available in 2, 3, and 4-seater UTVs.
- Ultimate Island Jeep Safari with Natural Pool, Baby Beach & Lunch — The full-day premium experience. Custom Land Cruisers with luxury suspension, certified local guides, and lunch included. 8 hours.
2. Horseback Riding
The most unique way to reach the Natural Pool. Rancho Loco runs the only horseback riding tour through Arikok National Park to Conchi, following the Nacho Trail — a path reserved exclusively for horses and hikers, completely free of vehicle traffic.
- Horseback Ride Tour to the Natural Pool — 3 hours, no riding experience needed, guides match you to your horse. A truly bucket-list way to experience Conchi.
3. Hiking
Experienced hikers can reach the Natural Pool on foot from the Arikok National Park entrance. The trail takes 1.5–2 hours each way and crosses rough, unmarked terrain. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and proper footwear — and go early morning to avoid the midday heat.
What to Expect at the Natural Pool
- Swimming — The pool is calm and safe for swimming most days. Rough Atlantic swells occasionally make it choppy — your guide will advise on the day.
- Snorkeling — Many tours provide snorkel gear. You’ll spot tropical fish and coral inside the pool walls.
- Cliff jumping — A small rock ledge inside the pool offers a fun (and optional) jump into the water. Heights vary from about 6–10 feet.
- Crowds — Go early morning. By midday the pool fills with multiple tour groups. Many tours time their arrival to beat the rush.
Best Time to Visit
The Natural Pool is accessible year-round, but morning visits (8am–11am) are best — calmer seas, cooler temperatures, and fewer tour groups. The pool can be temporarily closed after heavy rains or when the Atlantic swells are too rough, so always check with your tour operator on the day.
Tips Before You Go
- Wear a swimsuit under your clothes — you’ll want to jump in immediately
- Water shoes are useful for the rocky entry into the pool
- Bring cash for the Arikok National Park entrance fee (~$15 per person, often included in guided tours)
- Apply waterproof sunscreen — the sun reflects strongly off the volcanic rock
- Book your tour in advance — Natural Pool tours are among the most popular in Aruba and sell out regularly
The Natural Pool is one of those places that earns its reputation. Whether you arrive by UTV, Jeep, or horse, Conchi never disappoints. Browse and book Aruba Natural Pool tours at OneHappyIsland.com.
