Natural Bridge

figgy0223
figgy0223
First Reviewer
5 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
2
Reviews
9
Photos

The Mother Gone, but the Baby Remains

  • May 31, 2009
  • Rated 5 of 5 by jmariep from lebanon, Indiana
The Mother Gone, but the Baby Remains

The Natural Bridge is one of the most popular attractions that people like to see while in Aruba. Unfortunately, on September 2, 2005 the bridge collapsed early in the morning. The Aruban who described it to us did so as a tragedy to humankind. "Early in the morning of September 2, 2005, the Natural Bridge collapsed. All of Aruba was sad as the news spread in the morning through the island. But, the mother left behind the baby, so now we go to see the baby."

Today, the original Natural Bridge stands in the ruins just as it fell. Just before the ruins is a smaller bridge. Both are now opportunities to photograph. You can walk onto the baby bridge if you’d like. I felt a little uncomfortable with that, though, as the wind is terribly strong in Aruba, and the waves were crashing. Not that it wasn’t safe -- my husband walked across just fine.

There are also step leading down to the original bridge at the far side of the parking lot. I’m not sure that most people realize that they are there, as they are focused on being closer to the bridges.

There is also a store called the Thirst Aid Station that offers snacks, souvenirs, refreshments (including beer) and restrooms. It is important to note that it is 50 cents to use the restroom. It was one of the best 50 cents I ever spent. We got 2 beers here, and it was $10 total.

I consider coming to see the Natural Bridge is necessary if you are visiting Aruba. Seeing the waves crashing into the sea is amazing in itself, but to see them crash into these bridges is almost overwhelming.
Make this a priority of visiting Aruba.

From journal Mi Stima Aruba!

Editor Pick

Natural Bridge

  • January 19, 2005
  • Rated 5 of 5 by figgy0223 from Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Natural Bridge

Your first thought when you enter this natural site is that you are in a different world. The road consists of dirt, rocks, and huge potholes everywhere. We were on a scooter and everyone was laughing at us.

If you want to visit Natural Bridge comfortably and safely, take a tour bus, jeep, or ATV because the road is difficult to maneuver.

Once you enter the park, the road forks. To the west are ancient ruins and rock piles that are a must-see. For almost as far as you can see, there are piles of five rocks, some barely balancing on each other. This is an ancient belief that your wishes come true if you pile five rocks on each other. It looks like you are on the surface of the moon.

From the fork in the road, if you head east, you are on your way to Natural Bridge. There is a beautiful scenic stop on the way, complete with palm umbrellas and rocks to climb on. Just the sound of the rough waves hitting the rocks and splashing high into the air is a sight to see. TIP: don't wear flip-flops; I did and it was very difficult to climb on the sharp rocks, as they are more like coral.

As you continue down the road for about 1 mile, you will come upon Natural Bridge. There is a small deli and gift shop. It is 0$.25 cents to use the bathroom, and don't waste your time in the gift shop, as it has nothing to do with Natural Bridge.

There are a few great places to view the bridge. First, there is a spot behind the gift shop, where you can watch the waves come upon the bridge and crash on the rocks before it. Secondly, you can stand on the bridge, and thirdly, you can climb down the stairs to stand on the shore while the waves come under the bridge and wash over your feet. Make sure to view it from all angles.

The picture opportunities are amazing when the sun hits the bridge just right, highlighting its orange color.

If you continue down the road, you will eventually reach Natural Pool, which I hear is great for swimming. We did not have the energy to try and maneuver the roads with our scooter.

There are no admission fees for any parts of the park.

From journal Aruba by Scooter

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