The Butterfly Farm

The Butterfly Farm is an enclosed tropical garden on J.E. Irausquin Boulevard in the Palm Beach hotel area, across the road from the Divi Phoenix resort. Butterflies fly freely among the plants, and guides explain the whole life cycle — egg, caterpillar, chrysalis and adult. It is one of the easiest family outings on Aruba, a short walk or bus ride from the high-rise hotels of Palm Beach.

What do you see at the Butterfly Farm?

According to the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA), visitors walk through a garden "teeming with butterflies" and can follow every stage of metamorphosis. Guides give a commentary on butterfly behaviour and how a caterpillar turns into a butterfly, and there is usually a display of chrysalises where new adults emerge. Butterflies often land on visitors, which children love — let them come to you rather than trying to touch them, as their wings are fragile.

When is the best time to visit?

Early in the day. ATA recommends arriving in the morning to watch newly emerged butterflies leave their chrysalis and take their first flight. Mornings are also cooler in the garden, and the light is better for photographs. Bright colours and sweet scents attract butterflies — a colourful shirt may earn you a few landings.

Can you come back with the same ticket?

Yes. ATA states that the admission ticket gives a free pass for the rest of your vacation, so it makes sense to go early in your stay and return on another day — for example on a windy afternoon when the beach is less inviting, or to show a different family member around. Ticket prices and opening hours are not published on an official site, so check at the entrance.

Tips for photographers

• Use a lens or phone setting that allows close-ups without getting too near.
• Look on the undersides of leaves and on flowers for still subjects.
• Keep flash off; natural light inside the garden is enough.
• Move slowly — sudden movements send butterflies away.

Good to know

• Location: J.E. Irausquin Boulevard, Palm Beach, opposite the Divi Phoenix.
• Getting there: walkable from the Palm Beach hotels; a bus stop named after the farm and the Divi Phoenix is on the boulevard outside.
• Duration: a visit with the guided talk fits easily into a morning; combine it with the beach afterwards.
• Families: see our guide to Aruba with kids and the Donkey Sanctuary for another animal visit.