Compared to our own little frog country, the rolling Aruba is quite hilly. But there are no real mountains. Yet many people see it differently. According to them, there are four mountains on the island: Jamanota (189 metres), Arikok (185 metres), Cabai (169 metres) and Hooiberg (165 metres). We went to investigate and climbed Hooiberg. Afterwards, we too consider this hill a mountain. But we do think that climbing it is a highlight that you should not miss when you are on Aruba. If only because of the spectacular view of almost the entire island.
The Hooiberg is probably the most interesting hill to climb in Aruba. Despite its low height, it is a rugged and steep peak that stands alone. It is also the mountain that you can see in the distance almost everywhere on the island. The climb is via a steep but very passable staircase from the north to the top.
At the start of the walk, there is plenty of parking space on the verge of the road. The first part of the then wide staircase rises very gradually. After a little less than 100 metres, the steps become narrower and steeper. You can see it here going impressively straight up. Don’t let this intimidate you too much: there are many viewpoints along the way where you can catch your breath. The ultimate reward for the climb is the fantastic view at the top. On clear days, you can even see South America! And believe us: you will reach the top much sooner than you think at the start of the hike.
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Hooiberg climb
You would expect so. But now that we have climbed the mountain a few times ourselves, we think that it is not so bad. We even saw some, no doubt very experienced, runners running up parts of the stairs. However, no matter how good or bad your condition is, there are plenty of opportunities to take a break. It will take you about half an hour. If you are in excellent shape, you can get to the top in 15 minutes.
Opinions are divided on the answer. Some say 600, others 560. On the homepage of 'Visit Aruba', we came across the number 587. We did not count the steps ourselves. But if you want to know the one and only correct answer, there is only one thing to do: climb the Hooiberg yourself and count!
Actually, it doesn't really matter in which month of the year you climb the Haystack. The stone steps will not become slippery or slippery because of the little rain. However, it can be hot on Aruba in the summer, especially in September. Especially if you have little cooling by the wind.
The time of day when you climb the mountain is important. We climbed Hooiberg both in the morning and late in the afternoon. The sun did not show itself during the climb. Only at the top will you have a rising or setting sun. In any case, the middle of the day is not recommended. Regardless of the time of day, take plenty of drinking water with you. Especially during the climb to the top, this is no superfluous luxury.
Actually, it doesn't really matter in which month of the year you climb the Haystack. The stone steps will not become slippery or slippery because of the little rain. However, it can be hot on Aruba in the summer, especially in September. In particular if you have little cooling by the wind.
The time of day when you climb the mountain is important. We climbed Hooiberg both in the morning and late in the afternoon. The sun did not show itself during the climb. Only at the top will you have a rising or setting sun. In any case, the middle of the day is not recommended. Regardless of the time of day, take plenty of drinking water with you. Especially during the climb to the top, this is no superfluous luxury.
A (rental) car is the most appropriate means of transport to get to the start of the hike. As there is no signposting, Google Maps is your best friend. It is best to download the map of Aruba onto your phone in advance. Once on the island, the offline version of the map in Google Maps works perfectly. Enter as destination: Hooiberg Hiking Trail.
From Oranjestad, you can also take the bus, line 3A. You can find the bus timetable on the website of Arubus.
No, but that's not necessary either. You can climb the mountain in different ways. But the only really practical way is just to take the stairs on the north side. The other routes are full of cacti and thorny bushes.
Yes, you can! There are many places where you can ‘take a break’. In addition, a gazebo has been built halfway up the climb so that you can just rest and enjoy the view.
Yes, probably. For example, my wife suffers from vertigo but as long as I go down in front of her, there is no problem. Of course, this differs per person.
