Ayo Rock Formations

Formed millennia ago likely the result of volcanic activity on Aruba, the Ayo Rock Formations are a fascinating place to explore when visiting the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba. Given the relative flatness and sandy soil of Aruba, the Ayo Rock Formations stand out prominently on the landscape.

Situated near Ayo Village, not far from the island’s capital, Oranjestad, on the western shore, these rock formations are a bit like cloud-gazing; the more you star, the more varied shapes you see. Many visitors say the layered, monolithic rocks resemble birds or dragons. There is a cluster of them that looks very much like a stack of pancakes that has slipped.

The walking trails take tourists around and through the rocks, and even through a series of tunnels, some of them quite tight, but from the rocks, on a sunny day, it is possible to see Venezuela, about 29 km (18mi) away across the water.

Say hello to the lizards (harmless) and cacti (don’t touch!) as you stroll through these unique rocks; pause to study the ancient Arawak petroglyphs, thought to be depictions of religious rites, among the Casibari Boulders, comprised partly of tonalite, at least 20% quartz, more commonly found in the European Alps.