DNM emphasizes that the law prohibition of riding horses on Aruba beaches is in force.
ORANJESTAD—The Department of Nature and Environment (DNM) informs the general public, and especially tour operators and tourists, about the current regulations that prohibit horseback riding on our white and pristine beaches.
Given that this law was established in 1987, this should not be surprising. Our guests have become interested as a result of the operators posting pictures of people riding horses alongside our beaches on various social media platforms.
Everyone must be aware of these laws, which include the Landsbesluit public waters and beaches and the General Police Regulation (APV). Article 25 of the Landsbesluit stipulates that it is prohibited to ride horses (trekdier) on beaches (stranden). In addition, Article 42 of the General Police Regulation specifies the sanctions attached to non-compliance with the said article.
DNM has recently received complaints about businesses, operators, and/or workers who are not following the law. For this reason, we emphasize the importance of respecting these regulations to protect our nature and environment.
Our beaches are not only the foundation of our economic pillar of tourism but are also home to various marine life species, including crabs and other small organisms.
Sea turtles also lay their eggs on the beach. These horses' excrement can bring an imbalance in this delicate ecosystem and also does not create a pleasant or attractive environment for those who visit our beaches to relax and enjoy our sea.
DNM urges all companies that provide horse tours to inform their employees responsible for the tours, as well as those who promote this activity at hotel activity desks, to refrain from promoting horseback riding on the beach. Some photo shoot companies have also published photos of horses and clients on the beach.
We refer all organizations to www.dnmaruba.org, where you can find all the laws on species' protection and the environment in force. DNM is open for dialogue on this topic during working hours, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm. DNM also receives official complaints via email at info@dnm-aruba.org with photos and information so that we can intervene in this matter.
It is through mutual awareness and collaboration that we can achieve a good understanding and thus preserve the natural beauty of our island for future generations to enjoy.
