Between 200 and 300 UTVs and ATVs are estimated to be operating illegally in Aruba, creating unfair competition for legitimate tour operators and putting additional pressure on the island’s natural environment. Jimmy Douglas, a representative of Tour Operators Uni, addressed the issue during an interview on the Enfoke program, hosted by journalists Speed Andrade and Patrick Paskel.
According to Douglas, many of these vehicles use regular vehicle or motorcycle registration plates, known as “V-number” or “MF-V,” instead of the commercial permits required to operate tours. He called on enforcement agencies, the police, and the Department of Technical Inspection (DTP) to take firm action against operators who do not comply with the regulations.
“If you conduct inspections and stop the illegal operators for a couple of weeks, you can immediately reduce the number of UTVs on the road by more than 20% to 25%,” Douglas said.
Seeking a balanced solution
While acknowledging the environmental impact of UTV and ATV tours, Douglas stressed that a complete ban on the sector is not the answer. Legitimate operators recognize the need to protect Aruba’s natural areas, he said, and are willing to work with authorities on stricter regulations and a long-term approach aligned with Vision 2030. At the same time, many operators depend on the industry to support their families and need protection from unfair competition.
In recent weeks, the operators have been seeking more consistent dialogue with government authorities and environmental organizations. After a judge gave the parties five weeks to reach an agreement and postponed the case, Tour Operators Uni contacted several relevant organizations, including the Directorate of Nature and Environment (DNM), the Department of Environment (DEP), AHATA, DOW, and the Aruba Conservation Foundation, which is responsible for Arikok National Park.
Douglas said the discussions did not always progress at the expected pace or with the level of commitment the operators had hoped for. They therefore asked the judge for an additional two weeks to continue negotiations and work toward a solid agreement.
Nature Driving Protocol
As part of their efforts to demonstrate their commitment to environmental protection, the operators presented a proposal called the “Nature Driving Protocol.” The plan includes maximum speed limits in natural areas, designated routes to help protect local flora and fauna and reduce the risk of accidents, and mandatory training for tour guides so they can ensure visitors follow environmental rules. It also proposes preventing dangerous maneuvers, such as donuts, that can damage the terrain.
Douglas said the operators are prepared to make concessions to help reduce the number of permitted vehicles in the sector. He said they are even willing to return some permits as a gesture of good faith, provided authorities also take effective action against illegal operators.
“We are willing to reach an agreement and even surrender a percentage of our permits, for example, returning five permits as a gesture of good faith, to help reduce the number of vehicles. However, there must be strict enforcement against illegal operators,” Douglas emphasized.
Calls for clear rules and enforcement
Tour Operators Uni is calling for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure that operators comply with the law, maintain adequate commercial insurance, and respect the environment. The association also wants illegal operations addressed to reduce unfair competition and prevent further damage to Aruba’s natural areas and tourism reputation.
In addition, the operators are seeking a memorandum of understanding with the government, AHATA, A.T.A., and environmental agencies. They believe a formal agreement would establish clear expectations, encourage transparent dialogue, and provide greater stability for the future of adventure tourism on the island.
Douglas emphasized that the sector is willing to cooperate and find common ground, but that a lasting solution must balance environmental protection with the livelihoods of legitimate operators. Discussions are expected to continue as the parties work toward an agreement on the future of UTV and ATV tours in Aruba.
