Aruba tour operators report progress on GPS monitoring and environmental rules

ORANJESTAD — Tour Operators Uni says five weeks of cooperation with Aruba's government have produced progress toward stronger regulations for nature-based tourist excursions.

The operators submitted a proposed protocol requiring GPS tracking in commercial tour vehicles, speed monitoring, guide training and penalties for violations, including suspension from the protocol.

In Tera Cora, the sector contributed to a temporary proposal containing approximately 27 measures, which remains subject to approval. SETAR also installed a pilot GPS system at ABC Tours to support route monitoring.

Tour Operators Uni maintains that licensed operators use existing dirt roads rather than driving freely through natural areas. It calls for stricter enforcement against illegal operators and unguided rental vehicles.

The organization continues to advocate a joint task force involving government, tourism authorities and environmental groups, while renewing its invitation to Aruba Birdlife Conservation to participate in discussions.