What if your Aruba getaway could do more than just recharge you?
With Aruba’s new Volunteer Time Off (VTO) program, visitors are invited to turn their vacation into a meaningful experience—giving back to the island while enjoying its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and iconic beaches. Whether you’re staying in a luxury resort or a cozy Airbnb, voluntourism in Aruba is open to everyone.
What Is the VTO Program?
The VTO (Volunteer Time Off) program, launched by the Aruba Tourism Authority, makes it easy for travelers to use their company-sponsored VTO days—or simply their personal time—to join short, rewarding volunteer activities during their stay.
From restoring coral reefs to helping rescued animals, each activity is designed to fit seamlessly into your vacation. No heavy lifting, no all-day commitments—just genuine impact and connection.
Option 1: Stay at a Resort With a VTO Package
Several Aruba resorts now offer VTO-themed stays that combine comfort with purpose. These curated packages include both your hotel stay and the opportunity to participate in one or more volunteer experiences.
- Beach Cleanup + Marine Conservation Activities – Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
- Donkey Sanctuary Volunteering – Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino
- Animal Care or San Nicolás Culture Tour – Radisson Blu Aruba
- Beach Cleanup + Donkey Sanctuary Visit – Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort
- Birdwatching + Kids Crafts – Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort
- Aloe Scrub Workshop + Beach Cleanup – Hyatt Regency Aruba
- Palm Beach Cleanup + Sunset Sail – TRYP by Wyndham Aruba
See all packages here: aruba.com/us/volunteer-time-off
Option 2: Staying in a Short-Term Rental? You Can Still Join!
You don’t have to stay at a hotel to participate in VTO. Aruba also offers individual volunteer opportunities that are open to all visitors—perfect if you’re in a vacation rental, villa, or apartment.
You can sign up for activities like:
- Beach cleanups
- Donkey care at Aruba Donkey Sanctuary
- Coral reef restoration and lionfish removal dives
- Sea turtle nest monitoring (May–August)
- Mangrove rehabilitation
- Birdwatching conservation at Bubali Bird Sanctuary
Explore options here: aruba.com/us/volunteer-time-off
VisitAruba Partners Supporting Purposeful Travel
Many of our featured partners are helping lead the way in sustainable and community-focused tourism. Here are some that offer VTO experiences or their own “do-good” programs:
Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino
Volunteer with rescued donkeys through Hilton’s “Service Stay” package, then unwind with spa perks and oceanfront relaxation for two.
View Hilton Aruba on VisitAruba.com
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
Pioneers in eco-tourism, Bucuti offers marine conservation volunteering through coral reef restoration, turtle nest monitoring, mangrove rehab, lionfish culling, and more.
View Bucuti & Tara on VisitAruba.com
Radisson Blu Aruba
Choose between caring for rescued animals at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary or exploring San Nicolas street art and local cuisine. The package also includes a suite stay, private airport transfers, and a locally crafted welcome amenity—purpose with a luxe twist.
View Radisson Blu on VisitAruba.com
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
While not part of the official VTO program, Boardwalk offers its own “Do-Good” guest initiative with beach cleanups, food bank donations, and support for local rescue groups like Sgt. Pepper’s Friends.
View Boardwalk Aruba on VisitAruba.com
️Need Employer Approval?
If your company offers Volunteer Time Off days, you can download a pre-written request letter to share with your HR department.
Download the VTO Request Letter (PDF)
A Real-Life VTO Story
Digital creator Corporate Natalie was one of the first to try Aruba’s VTO program. She cleaned up a beach and spent a morning at the Donkey Sanctuary.
“It was still a vacation—sunsets, beaches, and fun—but knowing I gave something back made it even better.”
Aruba Is Leading the Way
Whether you’re planting mangroves, feeding donkeys, or snorkeling to restore coral, Aruba’s VTO program shows how travel can do good. You’ll return home with not just memories, but meaning.
Ready to Travel With Purpose?
Visit aruba.com/us/volunteer-time-off to browse all experiences, book a package, or plan your custom VTO adventure—resort or rental, solo or family, chill or hands-on.
Relax. Recharge. Give back.
That’s the Aruba Effect.
