Aruba VIP Tours
Aruba VIP Tours
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About
At VIP Tours Aruba, we have a highly trained team with the aim of offering visitors a truly unforgettable experience. Our foundation is built upon the importance of great customer service.At VIP Tours Aruba we understand the concept of quality service and making sure our clients have a really fun time. At VIP Tours Aruba we know the value of your time, therefore you will not be transferred to the office and wait for other passengers. The tour starts as soon as you are picked up. We offer private off-road and island tours in the newest, the most comfortable and fully air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles on the island. Our professional and friendly drivers/tour guides will inform you on the history and heritage of the sites you will visit. Experience the adventure and fun while visiting the beautiful off-road sites of Aruba. At VIP Tours Aruba it is all about you, so you choose the sites you want to see and how long you want to stay there. To make your trip unforgettable but also comfortable you will be provided with all necessities, like snorkel equipment, water booties, floats, beach chairs and refreshments.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
159 reviews
Excellent
149
Very good
2
Average
2
Poor
2
Terrible
4
juliaz018
1 contribution
Oct 2020
Tony met us at the resort right on time and was very helpful in selecting locations to visit since it was our first time to the island. The FJ Cruiser was spotless and AC kept at a comfortable temperature throughout the day. He gave great historical background of the island and sites we were seeing, while also making casual conversation.
We enjoyed our time a Baby Beach and appreciated that we were able to use his snorkel equipment and towels. He also had plenty of drinks for us when we were thirsty.
We've been on similar tours (Jeep/ATV) of different islands, but this tour certainly holds to its namesake of "VIP."
We enjoyed our time a Baby Beach and appreciated that we were able to use his snorkel equipment and towels. He also had plenty of drinks for us when we were thirsty.
We've been on similar tours (Jeep/ATV) of different islands, but this tour certainly holds to its namesake of "VIP."
Written October 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rob H
Wakarusa, IN60 contributions
Dec 2021 • Family
We wanted to see “One Happy Island”, but didn’t want to have the stress and worry of trying to find our way ourselves. We just wanted to all enjoy the sights. I came upon the reviews for Aruba VIP Tours and booked it, and it ended up being a great decision. Antonio was our driver and guide, and he took us to all the places and things we wanted to see over the course of our eight hour tour. (If this seems long, it’s not…there is so much to see, you fill the time up and it passed very quickly.) We saw the California Lighthouse, the first chapel on the island, the abandoned gold mine the Natural Bridge, many beaches and rock formations, the amazing wall murals in San Nicholas, and the kids even snorkeled at Baby Beach. We also had an incredible seafood meal at Zeerover’s, which we would have never found on our own. Antonio was very knowledgeable, and always emphasized safety in all that we did, which i appreciated. He shared about the local history, culture, and other facts we wouldn’t have learned on our own. Most importantly, Antonio treated our family like family. He answered all of our kids (19 and 22 years old) questions, and shared about his own experiences on the island, like his love of deep sea fishing, local “fresh catch” restaurants, and about his family as well. It really felt like spending the day with an old family friend. I highly recommended Aruba VIP Tours and Antonio,specifically…you won’t be disappointed you did. There is so much more to Aruba than Palm and Eagle Beach, and it would be a shame not to see it for yourself!
Written December 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Matt V
Florida6 contributions
Jul 2015 • Family
We visited Aruba as part of our cruise vacation. We only had one day to see the highlights of Aruba and thought a Jeep tour would be the best way. We booked with Aruba VIP Tours based on recommendations from friends who lived in Aruba and still have family there.
Why Aruba VIP Tours is better than the traditional open air jeeps that are booked through the cruise line:
Comfort: Air conditioned, they provide water/soda, snorkel gear, towels, etc.
Safety: Enclosed with shoulder seat belts.
Private: You choose what to see, what to skip, and what to cut short. Enough room for a family. You will not be part of a large group and you go at your pace.
Convenience: We added an hour to our tour to spend more time at the beach.
We visited some of the same locations as other tour groups from our cruise and they had to wear bandanas over their noses and mouths because of the dust. (The island is a desert, think Arizona landscape) They were buying bottles of water at the stops and were hot. We cooled down in the AC going from stop to stop. Just a few things to consider.
Our guide, Antonio was very friendly, attentive, and made sure we had a great time. He is very knowledgeable about the island, it's history, animals, landscaping, etc. He took us to a beach and advised us where to snorkel and where not to swim because of the rip currents.
The vehicle is a 2014 Toyota FJ SUV. Very nice SUV kept immaculately clean. They clean before and after ever tour. The SUV is made to go off road so we had a great time doing that. It can go through deep water during the rainy season if it needs to. It has a snorkel air intake. The SUV is stocked with a cooler with cold water and soda, snorkel gear, and towels. They even had a first aid kit when my son cut his foot at a stop. They probably stock it with other necessities based on what you have planned.
Great for families with young kids. Our boys were 5 and 9 at the time and had a blast. It would be a great trip for anyone, honeymooners, retirees, etc. You pick what you do and don't do. We found the rates to be very fair and on par with what we would have paid booking an open air jeep tour through the cruise line. When you factor in the inclusion a private tour, comfort of cold drinks and AC, admission to national park, and flexibility to add time and stops it was a "no-brainer" for us.
Why Aruba VIP Tours is better than the traditional open air jeeps that are booked through the cruise line:
Comfort: Air conditioned, they provide water/soda, snorkel gear, towels, etc.
Safety: Enclosed with shoulder seat belts.
Private: You choose what to see, what to skip, and what to cut short. Enough room for a family. You will not be part of a large group and you go at your pace.
Convenience: We added an hour to our tour to spend more time at the beach.
We visited some of the same locations as other tour groups from our cruise and they had to wear bandanas over their noses and mouths because of the dust. (The island is a desert, think Arizona landscape) They were buying bottles of water at the stops and were hot. We cooled down in the AC going from stop to stop. Just a few things to consider.
Our guide, Antonio was very friendly, attentive, and made sure we had a great time. He is very knowledgeable about the island, it's history, animals, landscaping, etc. He took us to a beach and advised us where to snorkel and where not to swim because of the rip currents.
The vehicle is a 2014 Toyota FJ SUV. Very nice SUV kept immaculately clean. They clean before and after ever tour. The SUV is made to go off road so we had a great time doing that. It can go through deep water during the rainy season if it needs to. It has a snorkel air intake. The SUV is stocked with a cooler with cold water and soda, snorkel gear, and towels. They even had a first aid kit when my son cut his foot at a stop. They probably stock it with other necessities based on what you have planned.
Great for families with young kids. Our boys were 5 and 9 at the time and had a blast. It would be a great trip for anyone, honeymooners, retirees, etc. You pick what you do and don't do. We found the rates to be very fair and on par with what we would have paid booking an open air jeep tour through the cruise line. When you factor in the inclusion a private tour, comfort of cold drinks and AC, admission to national park, and flexibility to add time and stops it was a "no-brainer" for us.
Written August 8, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eric R
Richland, MI23 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
On 31 March we booked the 4 hour private tour on for 08 April. We subsequently never heard back, nor was our card charged. When we attempted to email once in Aruba, no response. Attempts to call were met with a 'this number is disconnected'.
Am not at sure what happened, but I wish they could have let us know they were out of business. Alternatively, if they're not out of business, this is pretty poor customer service.
Am not at sure what happened, but I wish they could have let us know they were out of business. Alternatively, if they're not out of business, this is pretty poor customer service.
Written April 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelly K
Medford, MA1 contribution
Jan 2022
Buyer Beware !!!
We booked Tour with VIP Tours $350. Three days prior to Arrival in Aruba, I was tested positive for covid and due to Travel regulations not allowed to enter Aruba.
Called the airlines and Hotels and they were very accommodating with full refunds.
NOT VIP. Be sure to read several page, small letter cancellation policy.
We booked Tour with VIP Tours $350. Three days prior to Arrival in Aruba, I was tested positive for covid and due to Travel regulations not allowed to enter Aruba.
Called the airlines and Hotels and they were very accommodating with full refunds.
NOT VIP. Be sure to read several page, small letter cancellation policy.
Written January 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
purrlinda
Los Angeles4 contributions
Apr 2013 • Friends
My concierge recommended this option for my aunt and I who had a very short 3 day stay in Aruba. I was grateful I was there during the slower season so that they had availability for the following morning. I advised my concierge that I am a travel agent and since I have such a short time, I wanted to see the main highlights of the island with what I could fit into the 4 hours that we'd reserved.
We received a courtesy call from VIP Tours about 20 minutes prior to our tour because they needed to know what size snorkel fins and water booties we needed. We were also advised that towels and all gear was included. A snack and beverages would be provided. The courtesy call was a very nice touch as it showed they wanted to make sure the driver had everything he needed to make sure we did not waste any time with those duties.
We were picked up promptly at 8AM in a pristine FJ Cruises (Toyota). Our guide, Joshua, introduced himself and we hopped in the vehicle. I told him that I would like to see the natural pool as well as have some time to swim at Baby Beach. He advised we could definitely do both in the 4 hours. Our guide was so amiable and friendly and spoke very passionately about his island. That made us feel like we were really immersed in it as opposed to being just observers or tourists.
We set off and headed first to the gold mine ruins, Bushiribana. Joshua explained the function of these ruins in the past and was kind enough to take photos of us looking out the “window”. The vistas in this area were amazing and he also told us about the rock piles we saw all along the sand.
Next we headed towards where the natural bridge used to be. He explained how the bridge collapsed. There is a smaller natural bridge there that we walked along. While there, we stopped at a snack shack for a local snack, a cheese pastechi. This was gouda cheese in pastry that was fried. A very nice treat to go along with the included beverages.
We then made a quick stop by the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. My aunt wasn’t too keen on going in the sanctuary so we had a look in from the outside. Joshua told us a bit about the history there and I decided I will definitely visit this on my next visit to Aruba.
We then began the harrowing trek down to the natural pool. These vehicles seemed to be specifically designed to make this journey. It traveled with ease along large rocks and was able to get us closer to the entrance of the pool than any of the other vehicles that were parked at the top where their passengers had to walk down a steep set of stairs to get to the pool. We did not swim in the pool but it looked quite beautiful. Very highly recommended if you are up for some adventure and do not have a lot of worries about motion sickness.
We then began our journey through Arikok National Park which was very beautiful. We ended up at some caves and as I went to walk up the steps to the cave I saw that there is a notice saying bats are in the cave. Our bravery ended there because neither my aunt nor I wished for an encounter with bats so we took lots of photos of the surroundings.
We then headed to Baby Beach and it was stunning. The water was so clear and shallow. You can walk way out and still only be knee deep. This place is great for those who may not be able to swim but wish to experience this type of water. It’s also great for families. There’s a restaurant on the beach there, and there are also clamshell shades and beach chairs to rent.
On our way back to our hotel, Joshua was kind enough to point out the differences between the low rise area and high rise area of the hotel zone. I was grateful for this because it helped me understand the lodging types in Aruba from a different perspective and will ultimately help me make better recommendations for those who would like to travel there. I appreciated him taking the time to do that.
This day was the highlight of our trip to Aruba and when I bring my husband there next year, I plan to use Vip Tours a couple of times while I am there because I fell so in love with the island that I’d like to see everything I can.
I also have no hesitation recommending them to friends, family, and clients in the future. I specifically asked if they can be arranged for cruise ship excursions and was glad to hear it was a yes.
I found the pricing to be a great value. The little perks such as having towels, water booties, and all of the snorkel gear was so nice. The cold drinks on a nice warm day were also very much appreciated. A tour guide can really make or break your experience and I am glad to say Joshua was an excellent guide who made our experience so special.
We received a courtesy call from VIP Tours about 20 minutes prior to our tour because they needed to know what size snorkel fins and water booties we needed. We were also advised that towels and all gear was included. A snack and beverages would be provided. The courtesy call was a very nice touch as it showed they wanted to make sure the driver had everything he needed to make sure we did not waste any time with those duties.
We were picked up promptly at 8AM in a pristine FJ Cruises (Toyota). Our guide, Joshua, introduced himself and we hopped in the vehicle. I told him that I would like to see the natural pool as well as have some time to swim at Baby Beach. He advised we could definitely do both in the 4 hours. Our guide was so amiable and friendly and spoke very passionately about his island. That made us feel like we were really immersed in it as opposed to being just observers or tourists.
We set off and headed first to the gold mine ruins, Bushiribana. Joshua explained the function of these ruins in the past and was kind enough to take photos of us looking out the “window”. The vistas in this area were amazing and he also told us about the rock piles we saw all along the sand.
Next we headed towards where the natural bridge used to be. He explained how the bridge collapsed. There is a smaller natural bridge there that we walked along. While there, we stopped at a snack shack for a local snack, a cheese pastechi. This was gouda cheese in pastry that was fried. A very nice treat to go along with the included beverages.
We then made a quick stop by the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. My aunt wasn’t too keen on going in the sanctuary so we had a look in from the outside. Joshua told us a bit about the history there and I decided I will definitely visit this on my next visit to Aruba.
We then began the harrowing trek down to the natural pool. These vehicles seemed to be specifically designed to make this journey. It traveled with ease along large rocks and was able to get us closer to the entrance of the pool than any of the other vehicles that were parked at the top where their passengers had to walk down a steep set of stairs to get to the pool. We did not swim in the pool but it looked quite beautiful. Very highly recommended if you are up for some adventure and do not have a lot of worries about motion sickness.
We then began our journey through Arikok National Park which was very beautiful. We ended up at some caves and as I went to walk up the steps to the cave I saw that there is a notice saying bats are in the cave. Our bravery ended there because neither my aunt nor I wished for an encounter with bats so we took lots of photos of the surroundings.
We then headed to Baby Beach and it was stunning. The water was so clear and shallow. You can walk way out and still only be knee deep. This place is great for those who may not be able to swim but wish to experience this type of water. It’s also great for families. There’s a restaurant on the beach there, and there are also clamshell shades and beach chairs to rent.
On our way back to our hotel, Joshua was kind enough to point out the differences between the low rise area and high rise area of the hotel zone. I was grateful for this because it helped me understand the lodging types in Aruba from a different perspective and will ultimately help me make better recommendations for those who would like to travel there. I appreciated him taking the time to do that.
This day was the highlight of our trip to Aruba and when I bring my husband there next year, I plan to use Vip Tours a couple of times while I am there because I fell so in love with the island that I’d like to see everything I can.
I also have no hesitation recommending them to friends, family, and clients in the future. I specifically asked if they can be arranged for cruise ship excursions and was glad to hear it was a yes.
I found the pricing to be a great value. The little perks such as having towels, water booties, and all of the snorkel gear was so nice. The cold drinks on a nice warm day were also very much appreciated. A tour guide can really make or break your experience and I am glad to say Joshua was an excellent guide who made our experience so special.
Written April 29, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KDG_TX
Plano, TX228 contributions
Jun 2015 • Couples
We selected a private tour with VIP tours through our hotel concierge -- a very very good decision. My husband has mobility challenges and we wanted to see Aruba but the open jeeps were just not an option from a physical perspective (plus it was hot) and went to places that he would not be able to get out and enjoy. And I didn't want to rent a car because I wanted to enjoy looking around without the strain of figuring out where we needed to go. We needed something more customized. The concierge worked it out and informed VIP of our specific situation. Antonio showed up well prepared with a wide and sturdy step for my husband to get in and out of the jeep and suggestions on what was workable for him while still giving me the full experience of getting out and about. In 4 hours we covered the island tip-to-tip and side-to-side with time for me to get out and explore and take pictures. Just like everyone else has said so far, the jeep was immaculate, comfortable, and air conditioned. Antonio was great -- he was very knowledgeable, personable, and very proud to be a part of Aruba and share it with us. We left the itinerary to him and we were not disappointed - from the sites to the coconuts at the lighthouse to the warm fresh made pastechi's from a little spot by the natural bridge. We highly recommend VIP; it is well worth the extra price to have a customized tour just for you. Oh, and to show you what kind of guy Antonio is, while we were inside the national park visitor's center, he was out helping a driver with a flat tire. Thanks so much Antonio, we really enjoyed it!
Written June 29, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ddsterling63
Boston65 contributions
Jan 2019 • Family
Prior to booking VIP Tours, we had a full day tour in a car, which was great, but a regular car is unable to travel to the Natural Pools in Arikok National Park. Most of the park is OK for cars, but the Natural Pools require extreme off-roading so a 4x4 vehicle is necessary. You have a few choices. On our way to the pools, we saw ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) tours and people riding in pickup trucks that had been enhanced with benches. Compared to them we felt like we were riding in style and safety. VIP uses Toyota FJ Cruisers modified for extreme off-roading. They have high-clearance and special suspension so they won't flip over - the other options just aren't as safe plus you ride in the open air. VIP took us all the way down to the pools - the other tours can only get near but not all the way down and then you hike down the really rocky part at the end. VIP supplied us with full-faced snorkeling masks and water shoes which were much safer for our feet than wearing sandals. It's easy to cut your feet if you're wearing sandals on the rocks if you aren't careful. Ask your guide to spray the masks with anti-fog spray. Also, bring a bag of frozen peas. Our guide tossed peas into the water while we were snorkeling so the fish swarmed around us and we had a great view. VIP brought towels, water, snacks and made us feel great. Also, the Toyota vehicles were able to drive out after dark so we were able to stay later than everyone else and had about 45 minutes by ourselves at the pools. Everyone else mentions Antonio - we loved him. He's friendly and ready to make your personalized experience as hassle-free as possible. We talked all about the island, the culture, politics, economy. It was very interesting. We also visited the Fontein and Quadirikiri (Guadirikiri) caves which have ancient petroglyphs (cave drawings). Also very worthwhile - 3-way natural bridge (not the famous one!) and Blackstone beach. Not everyone knows to go there so it helps to have a guide that really knows the terrain.
Written January 10, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JennySteveJoshuaSydn
Aurora, Canada15 contributions
Dec 2016 • Family
Can't say enough great things about Aruba Vip Tours and our tour guide Gerry! Gerry was amazing. He listened to what we wanted to do and see and provided fantastic suggestions all of which the 4 of us thoroughly enjoyed. Our kids aged 8 and 11 had a blast :) A highlight was a visit to the smaller natural pools (safe for kids but still a big adventure) and climbing down the side of a cliff on a small ladder and then hiking across the rocks to a grotto where we could all leap off the rocks into the water. Gerry also took us to a spectacular beach that was hidden from the road - there was nobody on it and it was gorgeous. Gerry had snorkel gear and towels in the car so we all snorkelled and entered the water through mangrove trees (very cool experience)! Gerry was a fantastic guide. We learned so much about Aruba and had so much fun :) While a private tour cost us a little more, we highly recommend it! It was well worth the money! A fantastic experience :) Thanks so much Gerry and Vip Tours :)
Written December 16, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mamamoney
Pigeon Key, FL40 contributions
Jul 2016 • Couples
My husband and I just finished taking the 4-hour tour of the island with Aruba VIP Tours and it was totally worth it. Our driver was Rupert and he was a delight. He was very professional, accommodating, and extremely knowledgable.
We will definitely come back to Aruba and will use them again for the 8-hour tour. We were able to go to the Natural Pool, the Natural Bridge, the lighthouse, Downtown, and Mangel Halto.
The jeeps are very clean, comfy, and air conditioned. I can't imagine doing all that we did any other way. If I could give them 6 stars, I would!!
We will definitely come back to Aruba and will use them again for the 8-hour tour. We were able to go to the Natural Pool, the Natural Bridge, the lighthouse, Downtown, and Mangel Halto.
The jeeps are very clean, comfy, and air conditioned. I can't imagine doing all that we did any other way. If I could give them 6 stars, I would!!
Written July 4, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, I just read your review, and wondering what the cost was? There are only two of us, unless we meet some new friends on our cruise ship to join us. We want history of Aruba and some snorkeling too. Is there other private tours companies in Aruba that you know of?? We don’t arrive until noon or 1pm and see that they do only a 8 am or 12 pm tour. Thank you so much
Written January 13, 2019
I would visit their website for up to date rates and contact them directly. You must book in advance and it is well worth it compared to other tours. We paid $550 I believe for the 8 hour. It is per vehicle I believe so if you had another couple you could split the cost.
Written January 14, 2019
Can you do a group of 6 on May 3?
Dave
Written April 7, 2018
We would like to do a tour for 4 of us on Monday April 2. Could you let me know if this is available, what the cost is? And the time of day you go. We are staying at the little boardwalk
Written March 24, 2018
We have a group of 4 and would lov to do a tour on April 2 or 5;6. Would like to know the cost and where you would all take us. Looking at a 4 hr tour if possible. We are staying at the boardwalk hotel.
Written March 8, 2018
Sorry you need to contact VIP Tours
Written March 9, 2018
How do I contact someone at Aruba ViP tours ?
I have questions about a private tour with our own itinerary
and need times, dates and prices.
THANKS
Written January 21, 2017
You can call him, or your hotel concierge can arrange it for you. VIP tours takes credit cards, which is great, and you can include the tip there as well.
Written January 22, 2017
I want to book online, will my credit card be charged at the time I book or on the day of my tour?
Written September 22, 2016
I didn't book online when I did the tour, but I remember Antonio charging my credit card when he arrived to pick me up. I would definitely contact them.
Written September 23, 2016
dat527
Chicago, Illinois
Hi how do I send a link of my saved (Aruba Tour) to me email?
Written September 20, 2016
dat527
Chicago, Illinois
Hi how do I send a link of my saved(
Aruba Tour) to my email?
Written September 20, 2016
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