NORTHEAST COAST. This wildlife park encompasses roughly 20% of the entire island. At the entrance to the park are restrooms and food facilities. Many tour companies offer excursions through these wilds but, thanks to well-maintained walking paths, exploring on your own is also an option. Within the park you will see the ruins of a gold mining operation, ancient Arawak drawings, and some remnants of an old colonial Dutch settlement. Mount Yamanota, Aruba's highest peak, is also in the park. As you walk the trails expect to see divi-divi and kwihi trees, cacti, indigenous aloe, and many tropical birds and lizards.

NORTHEAST COAST. Scientists are unable to explain how this interesting grouping of boulders ended up stacked on this part of Aruba; the Quartzdorite stones are not consistent with the island's geological landscape. The formations at Ayo were once home to groups of indigenous people who painted the petroglyphs that are still visible. Climb to the top of Casibari for excellent views of the island. Aruba's government has constructed trails and added steps and handrails, though some of the climbing can be a bit challenging. To reach Casibari, take the Tanki Highway 4-A. Ayo is found via Highway 6-A; watch carefully for the turnoff signs near the center of the island on the way to the windward side.

NORTHWEST COAST. This fascinating nature conservancy is dedicated to learning about and preserving butterflies. Hundreds of varieties of the fluttering creatures reside in the gardens. The 30-minute guided tour, included with your admission price, shows the stages of metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. Plan this stop early in your trip since once you pay admission you can return as often as you like.

NORTHERN COAST. Two of Aruba's most exciting sites are the Quadirikiri and Fontein caves. Quadirikiri provides wonderful opportunities for unique photos thanks to two chambers that allow filtered sunlight to enter. Travel along the 100 foot tunnel if you are adventurous ­ hundreds of (harmless) bats make their home here. Fontein cave is exceptional for the Arawak paintings visible on the ceiling.

GREATER ORANJESTAD. At a mere 541 feet, this is not Aruba's highest peak, but Hooiberg is the most accessible climb on the island. Save this one for a clear day since you will be able to see all the way to the coast of Venezuela. The shape of the mountain gives it its name ­ Hooiberg means "haystack" in Dutch. From Oranjestad take highway 7-A toward Santa Cruz.