ACF now generates 61% of its own income as revenue rises to Afl. 10.2 million

ORANJESTAD – Aruba Conservation Foundation (ACF) ended 2025 with more than Afl. 10.2 million in total revenue, nearly 10% more than the year before. The standout figure is that about 61% of all income is now generated by the foundation itself, largely through admission fees at Arikok National Park.

ACF’s self-generated income rose to more than Afl. 6 million, up by over 13%. The government contribution through the management fee amounted to almost Afl. 3.6 million, while donations brought in more than Afl. 930,000.

A major part of the growth came from higher entrance fees for protected natural areas. Visitor-related income increased by nearly Afl. 716,000 to close to Afl. 6 million. According to ACF, the price increase for day passes alone generated roughly Afl. 631,000 in additional revenue.

Visitor numbers, however, did not grow at the same pace. ACF recorded about 196,000 visitors in 2025, up 2.5%, while total stayover and cruise tourism to Aruba grew by more than 7%. As a result, ACF’s share of tourists reached declined from 7.7% to 7.3%.

At the same time, operating costs rose by almost 20% to more than Afl. 5 million. Personnel and conservation-related expenses also increased, leaving pre-tax results at close to Afl. 3 million, almost 9% lower than a year earlier.

ACF also continued strengthening its financial reserves, with its emergency reserve rising to almost Afl. 3 million. The foundation is pursuing additional income sources, including new visitor activities, a café and a souvenir shop at the Arikok National Park visitor center.

Source: Aruba.nu