The Butterfly Farm is home to some of the most exotic winged creatures on the planet. Step into a lush tropical forest, where colourful butterflies flutter around freely, and take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating life cycle that sees them transform from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly.
The farm itself consists of a meshed enclosure in which you’ll find a beautiful tropical landscape, as well as attractive water features. Wander the gardens independently or take part in an informative guided tour. Listen as the guide explains more about the metamorphosis, the mind-blowing process that sees caterpillars develop into butterflies or moths. They’ll point out some of the different species you see as you go.
Examine the shimmering butterfly wings and admire the intricacies of the patterns. Some of the species you are likely to see include the green-and-black emerald swallowtail and the unmistakable orange tip, a predominantly white creature with bright orange wing tips. Be on alert for some of the more unusual butterflies too. You might get to glimpse the iridescent blue wings of the morpho, and the mammoth atlas moth, whose wingspan can reach up to 10 inches (25 centimetres).
Visitors may even be allowed to handle the graceful creatures, but be sure to ask your guide how to do it safely first. Wear bright colours and douse yourself in a citrus scent to increase your chances of having butterflies land on you.
Plan to visit in the morning when the butterflies are most active. In afternoon, they are more sedate, so it may be easier to capture good photos. Combine a trip here with a visit to the nearby Bubali Bird Sanctuary, where more than 80 species of migratory birds can be observed.
The Butterfly Farm is located near Palm Beach resort area north of Oranjestad and is open daily year-round. There is an entrance fee, but once this is paid, you will receive a free return pass should you want to come again during your stay on Aruba. Guided tours run throughout the day and last between 15 and 20 minutes.
