Welcome to Aruba

An island for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Aruba is a favorite of sun-seekers looking for a convenient escape that feels worlds away.

It’s a hop, skip and a short plane ride away to this popular southern Caribbean island, where you’ll fall in love with cute Oranjestad, snorkel amidst sea life and shipwrecks and ride horseback in the hills.

The beach choices are endless, from the powdery white sands that front luxury resorts to quiet, secluded coves such as Baby Beach. Explore Arikok National Park, Fontein Caves and Natural Pool, then climb the steps to iconic Hooiberg Hill. Browse art galleries and sway to the calypso beat in San Nicolas, a coastal town known for its thriving cultural scene.

Taste the flavors of Aruba’s heritage, from Dutch to Asian, African to Spanish. Then, sit back with a glass of wine and a loved one, taking in the sunset over the distant horizon.

Unique Facts

• Aruba, along with Bonaire and Curacao, are known as the ABC Islands (also formerly known as the Netherland Antilles).
• Beach tennis – a fun mix of tennis and volleyball, played on the beach – is a favorite pastime here.
• Aruba is famous for its aloe vera products. Take a tour of the Aruba Aloe factory and pick up locally made products.
• Not only is Aruba’s tap water safe to drink, it’s some of the best drinking water in the world.

Language

Arubans speak four languages: English, Spanish, Dutch and Papiamento (the latter two are the country’s official languages). Papiamento is believed to have developed from Portuguese-African pidgin that was used between slaves and slave traders.

When To Go

Luckily for those seeking a Caribbean idly without the threat of hurricane, Aruba lies outside “Hurricane Alley.” The best time to visit is from April to August, when the weather is wonderful and the prices are lower than January to March.

Airports

Queen Beatrix International Airport (also known as Aruba Airport), Oranjestad

Passport Validity

A valid passport is required to enter Aruba. Visitors receive a free visa stamp valid for 30 days. Tourist visits are limited to 180 days per year.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

No visa required for US citizens.

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Aruba: Hepatitis A, Typhoid.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type A, B and F. Standard voltage: 127 V. Standard frequency: 60 Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Aruban Florin. US dollars, major credit cards and traveler’s checks widely accepted.

Getting Around

Options include car rental from the airport, taxi service, public transportation and shuttle service to and from hotels, resorts and attractions.

If renting a car, keep in mind that road signs in Aruba differ from those in the United States. Be sure you are familiar with the traffic rules and signs before driving.

Driver’s License

International driver’s license or valid driver’s license held for at least two full years is required to rent a car.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Consulate General Curacao
J.B. Gorsiraweg 1,
Willemstad, Curaçao
Telephone: +599-9-461-3066
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +599-9-510-6870
Fax: +599-9-461-6489
ACSCuracao@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Aruba Visitor Information Center
San Nicolas City, Main Street
Open Mon.-Fri., 9 AM-5 PM
Free walking tours Tues. & Thurs., 10:30 AM 2:30 PM

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 911

Police: Oranjestad: 100; Noord: 107; San Nicolas: 104; Santa Cruz: 105

Ambulance: 911

Fire Department: 911

Coast Guard: 913

Dr. Horacio Oduber Hospital: Dr. Horacio E. Oduber Boulevard 1, Oranjestad – Eagle Beach
+297-527-4000

Information number: 118

Safety and Security

Aruba ranks as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, with low rates of violent and petty crime. Use common sense when traveling, avoid areas not well-lit after dark and keep valuables tucked away or in a safe.