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.

NORTHERN COAST. Maybe it's those big gentle eyes. Or the wacky grin and the ridiculous noise they make. Whatever it is, donkeys have a certain something that many people find completely endearing. The Aruba Donkey Sanctuary takes in injured and sick wild donkeys, providing care and a permanent home. This is a great place to spend a couple hours, especially if you're an animal lover or a kid (and if you're not either, that may have changed by the time you leave!). The donkeys love visitors, especially those with a handful of carrots or apples. Before you leave, stop by the little refreshment stand for a cold drink or a unique souvenir T-shirt.