Hooiberg | Arubiana

Hooiberg which translates to Haystack - is a volcanic formation which 165 meters above sea level and is located at the approximate center of Aruba. Although Hooiberg seems like the highest point of the island it is in fact the second highest. Jamanota, a hill located in the Arikok National Park stands at 189 meters above sea level, and is the true highest point of Aruba.

Geologists have discovered that the Hooiberg is made up of a distinctive variety of quartz diorite only found on Aruba.

In 1951, Mr. Eduardo Tromp built a staircase on the Hooiberg consisting of 900 steps.
Due to erosion and an imminent danger to anyone using them, in 1990 after 35 years, the government decided to renovate of the steps. By this point almost all the steps had been worn away. The renovation project was completed in 1991. The stage has been somewhat extended at the foot of the mountain and the steps are now wider and longer. There are now approximately 587 steps. A gazebo has been built halfway up the stairs for as a rest stop. It is also an excellent spot to relax and enjoy of the view.

Hooiberg is visited by tourists and locals on a daily basis who come to enjoy the beautiful view, or get a nice workout. You will often see many athletes working out on the stairs.

Hooiberg is covered with cacti, divi-divi trees and some Kibrahacha trees that will flourish and decorate the mountain with beautiful yellow flowers after a heavy rainfall.





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