About
When your Aruba vacation needs an adventure that combines picturesque settings, mountain biking, and horseback tours, only one location will suffice: Rancho Notorious.
The Noord iconic attraction began in 1996 and offers an escape into rugged landscapes and serene beaches far from conventional tourist trails.
Rancho Notorious, named after the 1952 movie, specializes in small group horseback and mountain bike tours designed for novices and experts. Visitors get the rare chance to explore hidden trails guided by multilingual experts who share fascinating stories and insights into the island's rich history and ecosystem.
The ranch has an unwavering commitment to animal welfare, ensuring all horses are well-cared for, loved, and safe to ride. Unlike American and European breeds, the horses on Aruba are smaller. And while they have notorious names, like Al Capone, they are meek and well-behaved animals.
Whether it's a tranquil horseback ride along the coastline or a more spirited mountain bike tour, Rancho Notorious promises an unforgettable experience.
Rancho Notorious: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Rancho Notorious stands above the rest when exploring Aruba on horseback, offering seven unique packages. Tour #1: Countryside and Hidden Lagoon is a perfect ride for beginners or those with children. The ride lasts about an hour in the countryside to a hidden lagoon rich with donkeys, iguanas, and parakeets.
Tour #3 North-East Coast & Sand Dunes is a top choice for intermediate and advanced riders. The two-hour tour passes through countryside trails to the rugged coast of Aruba and dunes. As a seasoned rider, you may gallop across the sands for an experience unlike anything else!
For self-propelled tours via bike, Rancho Notorious offers everything from an 11-mile easy trip for beginners to a full-blown tour around Aruba for advanced cyclists.
All bike tours include refreshments and are led by licensed Dutch cycling coach Geert Herbots. Rest stops, like visiting California Lighthouse, are included to rehydrate and refuel amidst Aruba's wonders.
Ending a day at Rancho Notorious, visitors often gather to share stories of their adventures. Due to the warm and welcoming atmosphere at the ranch, guests leave feeling like part of a big family.
With its Noord location, consider combining a meal after your tour. A famous Chef's Table is 2 Fools And A Bull, offering an intimate setting to unwind. When only fine dining will do, make a reservation at Infini, one of Aruba's top restaurants.
Adding Rancho Notorious to your Aruba vacation itinerary offers an enriching experience, connecting you with a horse or bike to Aruba's rugged beauty. When you're ready to escape the crowded beaches for a more sublime adventure, book a tour at Rancho Notorious.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from Oranjestad to Rancho Notorious:
- Start on Lloyd G. Smith Blvd, heading northwest towards the airport.
- Continue straight to stay on Lloyd G. Smith Blvd for approximately 3 miles.
- Turn left onto Route 4/Sasakiweg, following signs for the North Coast.
- After 2.7 miles, make a right turn onto Route 7/North Coast Road.
- Follow Route 7 for 4.1 miles, then turn left onto a gravel road, indicated by a Rancho Notorious sign.
- Continue for about 0.5 miles on the gravel road.
- Address: HXM9+W8R, Boroncana, Noord, Aruba
Local Tips
- Wear long pants and shoes that won't fall off for horseback tours.
- Bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, even for late afternoon tours.
- Arrive 30 minutes early to get acquainted with your horse and receive a brief orientation.
- Cyclists may bring their clip-in pedals, and Rancho Notorious will install them.
- Check the website for age restrictions and discounts.
