I’ve visited the welcoming island of Aruba multiple times, and during each stay I’ve made sure to spend some time with the operators at De Palm Tours. Equipped with the friendliest guides and numerous tour options, the company ensures spending an afternoon exploring via their Jeeps or UTVs is, hands down, the best way to discover all the island has to offer.

Baby Natural Bridge © Amanda Mactas

Both the company’s Jeep and UTV tours will ensure you get down and dirty — quite literally — so they strategically equip tour goers with bandanas, protective goggles and helmets for UTV riders. The sand and dirt pathways whip up quite the storm, but every second is worth it. De Palm guides prove more than happy to show off their island, pointing out acclaimed sights such as California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel and Baby Natural Bridge … even giving you time to hop off, wander and swim among the natural pools in Arikok National Park.

If you prefer a more relaxing way to get around the island, the company also offers tours via air-conditioned buses, as well as catamaran cruises and submarine tours. And for those who want to do more than just get their feet wet on the island of Aruba, tour provider Pelican Adventures specializes in more submersible explorations.

© Amanda Mactas

Travelers can choose from numerous sailing and snorkeling cruises with Pelican, enjoying drinks and views as the sun sets or diving down to probe shipwrecks among the fishes. The informative guides can take you to plenty of snorkeling sites and keep the cocktails flowing with a heavy hand.

Pelican Adventures also offers luxury cruises for those looking for something a little more elegant, such as its Luxury Lagoon Cruise or Exclusive Dinner Cruise. And much like De Palm, Pelican Adventures also hosts on-land tours via 4×4, bus and UTV.

For travelers looking to make the most of limited downtime, both operators confidently deliver seamless, fun ways to experience the country beyond the confines of a boardroom. Both De Palm and Pelican have the ability to transform a tight schedule into something magical and memorable. You’ll be amazed at what you can see in just a few short hours.