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Aruba Insider Tips

01. Digital Immigration Application

01. Digital Immigration Application

Before you fly, there's a Digital Immigration Form that every traveler must fill out before heading to Aruba. It's required for all non-resident visitors, whether you're coming for holidays, business, or just passing through. It's super simple and takes about 5 minutes. We recommend doing it well in advance of your trip—nobody likes the stress of filling out forms at the airport. The form is called the ED Card (Embarkation-Disembarkation Card), and it replaced the old paper cards you used to fill out on the plane. You can complete it within 7 days before your arrival at edcardaruba.aw. Once approved, you'll get a "qualifier" (that's the green checkmark) sent to your email. Keep it handy on your phone or print it out—you'll need to show it when you check in for your flight and when you arrive at immigration. Starting in July 2024, there's a $20 sustainability fee built into the ED Card process for travelers age 8 and older arriving by air. This fee helps Aruba maintain its beautiful beaches and infrastructure, and you only pay it once per calendar year even if you visit multiple times. Think of it as your small contribution to keeping this paradise pristine for everyone.
02. Digital Immigration Form

02. Digital Immigration Form

Here are the questions that you will be required to answer for your digital immigration form. You will need to have your passport and flight information—and the length of your stay. The form asks for standard travel details: your name, date of birth, nationality, passport number and expiration date, flight details (carrier name, flight number, departure date), accommodation information, and your email address. You'll also need to upload a clear photo or scan of your passport information page. The whole process is straightforward, and the new system launched in October 2024 is much more user-friendly than before. One thing to note: if you've traveled to Aruba before, you'll still need to fill out a new ED Card each time you visit. It's a single-entry document, so even frequent visitors need to complete the form within 7 days of each trip. Keep your confirmation email with the QR code accessible—immigration may ask to see it, and having it ready speeds things up considerably.
03. Travel Insurance

03. Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, travel insurance can be a smart move. It covers unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Even though Aruba has good medical facilities, dealing with unexpected costs isn't fun. Here's the reality: your US health insurance (including Medicare) typically won't cover you in Aruba, and medical facilities here require upfront payment. A simple clinic visit can run hundreds of dollars, and if you need serious care or a medical evacuation, you're looking at costs that can easily hit $40,000 or more. Most travelers opt for a policy with at least $100,000 in medical coverage and $250,000 in evacuation coverage. Travel insurance also covers things beyond medical emergencies—flight cancellations, lost baggage, trip interruptions due to weather, and even missed cruise connections. With activities like windsurfing, snorkeling, and diving being so popular here, having that safety net gives you peace of mind to fully enjoy your adventure without worrying about what-ifs.
04. DennisMobile

04. DennisMobile

DennisMobile is a handy eSIM built for travelers who want to stay connected without the roaming headaches. It lets you keep your own number while tapping into affordable data wherever you land. The app also makes it simple to call mobiles and landlines around the world, using the same credit you'd use for data, no extra tricks, no hidden charges. Details We Appreciate: ● Works as an eSIM, no need to swap physical cards Let's you keep your own number while abroad one balance covers both data and calls Avoids roaming fees when calling worldwide ● DennisMobile is particularly useful for island hopping in the Caribbean or traveling across multiple countries. You download the app, load credit, and you're ready to go, no hunting for local SIM cards or dealing with expensive hotel WiFi. It's a straightforward solution that just works.
05. Health Insurance

05. Health Insurance

During COVID it was mandatory to have proof of health insurance. That is no longer the case, though you are advised to have medical insurance. The insurance should provide coverage for medical expenses and include hospital care, emergency treatment. If you don't have medical insurance, it's not very expensive for a short trip, and it's absolutely worth considering. Aruba's hospitals and clinics don't accept Medicare or most US insurance plans, so you'll be paying out of pocket for any medical care. A comprehensive travel medical policy typically costs between $50-200 for a week-long trip, which is a small price compared to potential medical bills. The good news is that Aruba has excellent medical facilities, including the modern Dr. Horacio E. Oduber Hospital in Oranjestad and several well-equipped clinics around the island. But here's the catch: they require payment upfront. Credit cards are accepted, but you'll need to pay and then seek reimbursement from your insurance company later. Having proper coverage means you can focus on getting better rather than worrying about how to pay for care.
06. Passport & Visa

06. Passport & Visa

Your passport must not be more than 10 years old and must be valid during your entire stay. While the official requirement is that it's valid for the duration of your visit, it's strongly recommended to have at least 6 months of validity remaining. You will probably be asked by the airline check-in agent to show proof that you have either a return ticket, or proof of transit to another country, or a valid work or Digital Nomad Visa. This is standard procedure—they're just making sure you have a plan to leave the island. US citizens, Canadians, and EU nationals don't need a visa and can stay up to 30 days without one. US citizens specifically can extend their stay up to 90 days, while some other nationalities can request extensions up to 180 days. If your country requires a visa for Aruba, you'll need to apply in person at a Netherlands embassy or consulate before you travel. You can check the complete visa requirements list on the Dutch government's website. Keep in mind that even if you're visa-free, you still need to complete the ED Card—these are two separate requirements. The ED Card confirms you're approved to travel, while visa status determines how long you can stay.
07. Vaccinations and Health Precautions

07. Vaccinations and Health Precautions

Aruba did require vaccinations when COVID was at its height, but it no longer requires any proof of vaccinations to enter the country, though it's wise to be up to date on routine vaccines. The one exception is: travelers arriving in Aruba from areas with a risk of yellow fever are required to have a valid vaccination against yellow fever. We recommend visiting the CDC website or consulting your doctor to find out if this applies to you based on where you're traveling from. The list includes countries in Central and South America (like Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, Bolivia, and several others) and many African nations. If you're coming from one of these countries or transiting through them for more than 12 hours, you'll need proof. The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival to be valid, and you'll need to show your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (the "yellow book") to immigration officials. Exemptions exist for children under 9 months, adults over 60, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with certain medical contraindications—though you'll need a medical waiver for health-related exemptions. If you're traveling from a yellow fever risk country but stayed in a non-risk country for at least 6 days without developing symptoms, you're also exempt.
08. Credit Cards and Debit Cards

08. Credit Cards and Debit Cards

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout Aruba, making them your most reliable payment options. American Express is accepted at many establishments, though you might occasionally encounter a smaller business that doesn't take it due to higher merchant fees. Discover cards work in some locations but aren't as universally accepted—it's smart to have a Visa or Mastercard as backup. Debit cards work great for most purchases and ATM withdrawals. While the tourist areas are very card-friendly, it's wise to carry some cash for smaller local vendors, taxis (which don't accept cards), and the occasional beach shack or food truck. Most cards with Cirrus, Maestro, or Plus System logos work perfectly fine at Aruba's ATMs and payment terminals. Before you travel, give your bank a quick call to let them know you'll be in Aruba—this prevents your card from being frozen for suspected fraud. Also check if your card charges foreign transaction fees (typically 2.5%-5% per transaction). Some travel-focused credit cards waive these fees entirely, which can save you quite a bit over the course of your trip!
09. Currency in Aruba

09. Currency in Aruba

The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin, abbreviated as AWG (also commonly written as Afl.). The florin is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed exchange rate: 1 USD equals 1.80 AWG, or conversely, 1 AWG equals about $0.56 USD. This consistent rate is honored throughout the island, so whether you're shopping, dining, or booking activities, you'll always know where you stand with exchange rates. Here's the great news: US Dollars are widely accepted everywhere in Aruba! Hotels, restaurants, shops, tour operators, and most businesses happily take USD alongside florins. When you pay with US Dollars and get change back, you might receive a mix of both currencies—this is completely normal and both are equally useful. The florin comes in coins (5, 10, 25, 50 cents, plus 1 and 5 florin coins) and banknotes (10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 florins). Keep an eye out for the distinctive square-shaped 50-cent "yotin" coin—it's uniquely Aruban and makes a fun souvenir! Banks on the island exchange other foreign currencies like Euros, but given how readily USD is accepted, most American visitors never bother exchanging money. Just bring US Dollars in various denominations, especially smaller bills ($1, $5, $20) for tips and casual purchases.
10. ATMs

10. ATMs

ATMs are easy to find across Aruba and work smoothly with international credit and debit cards. You'll find them at all the major banks, inside most hotels and casinos, at gas stations, and at popular supermarkets throughout the island. Look for machines that accept cards with Cirrus, Maestro, Visa Plus, or Pulse network logos—these cover most international cards. Many ATMs can dispense either Aruban Florins or US Dollars, though not every machine stocks both currencies at all times. It's worth checking before you withdraw, and if one ATM is out of USD, simply try another nearby location. For the safest experience, use ATMs located inside bank branches during business hours, as these are more secure and less vulnerable to card skimming devices. Major banks include Aruba Bank (20+ ATMs island-wide), Caribbean Mercantile Bank (CMB), Banco di Caribe, and RBC Royal Bank. Be aware that ATM fees in Aruba can be steep—typically $5-10 USD per transaction. To minimize costs, withdraw larger amounts less frequently. When prompted, always decline "Dynamic Currency Conversion" (it may ask if you want to "accept conversion" or "charge in USD")—choosing to be charged in AWG instead gives you a better exchange rate and avoids an extra 1% fee.
11. Banking

11. Banking

Opening a bank account in Aruba as a visitor or even a short-term resident is quite challenging and time-consuming—typically taking 2-4 months to complete due to extensive background checks, verification of income sources, and other regulatory requirements. For short-term vacations, there's really no need to worry about local banking services. The island's main banks—Aruba Bank, Caribbean Mercantile Bank (CMB), Banco di Caribe, and RBC Royal Bank—all provide standard services like currency exchange, cash advances on credit cards, and assistance if your card is lost or stolen. Banking hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, though some branches stay open slightly later on certain days. Most bank staff speak excellent English, making any interactions straightforward for international visitors. If you need emergency banking assistance during your stay—such as reporting a lost credit card or getting a cash advance—visit any major bank branch with valid identification (your passport works best). For Visa and Mastercard issues, head to Aruba Bank, CMB, or RBC Royal Bank. American Express services are available through S.E.L. Maduro & Sons at Rockefellerstraat 1 in Oranjestad (+297 582 3888), open Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
12. Pharmacy - Botika - Drug Store

12. Pharmacy - Botika - Drug Store

Pharmacies in Aruba are called "Botikas" in Papiamento, and they're easy to spot by their green cross signs. They're well-stocked with both prescription medications and over-the-counter products, and all locations have licensed pharmacists on staff who can answer your questions. Most pharmacies are open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with one pharmacy designated as "on duty" for evenings, Sundays, and holidays—you'll find which one by checking the notices posted on any pharmacy window. The largest pharmacy chain is Botica di Servicio, with five locations throughout the island including one at Cove Mall in Palm Beach (walking distance from the high-rise hotels) and one at Punta Brabo next to the hospital. Other reliable options include Botica Santa Anna in Noord and BENU Pharmacy locations. If you see a doctor during your stay, they can send your prescription directly to any Botika for convenient pickup. Many visitors are pleasantly surprised to find that prescription medications are considerably more affordable in Aruba than in the United States, and some medications that require prescriptions in the US are available over-the-counter here. Major Pharmacy Locations: Botica di Servicio Eagle (next to Hospital): Caya Punta Brabo 17, Oranjestad | +297 587 9011 Botica di Servicio Noord: Noord 41B | +297 586 0027 Botica Santa Anna Noord: Noord 82 | +297 586 4606 Botica di Servicio Bubali: Bubali 141-A, Noord | +297 583 4908 Botica di Servicio Cove Mall: Cove Mall, Palm Beach area BENU Pharmacy San Luca: San Nicolas area For pharmacy emergencies outside regular hours, call the hospital at +297 527 4000 to find out which pharmacy is currently on duty.
13. On Arrival

13. On Arrival

After landing at Queen Beatrix International Airport, you'll follow clear signs directing you to either the Visitor or Local line. Depending on the setup that day, you'll go through either an immigration inspector or use one of the modern passport and facial recognition machines—Aruba's been upgrading their arrival experience to make things faster and smoother. The immigration staff are generally friendly and helpful. Just have your passport and completed ED card (Digital Immigration form) ready, along with your proof of accommodation and return ticket if asked. The whole process typically moves pretty quickly, especially outside of peak arrival times when multiple flights land at once. US-bound travelers get the added convenience of US Customs pre-clearance right here in Aruba, which means you'll clear customs before you leave and walk straight out when you arrive stateside—no long lines at your destination!
14. The Arrivals Hall

14. The Arrivals Hall

Aruba's arrivals hall is bright, modern, and welcoming—setting the perfect tone for your island adventure. The recently renovated space features a beautiful terrazzo floor and feels wonderfully open and airy. If someone's picking you up, they'll easily spot you as you emerge into the main hall. Once you've collected your bags and cleared customs, you'll find everything you need right there. There are ATMs if you need cash, the Mello Bar if you're craving a quick drink or snack, and often vendors selling local SIM cards. The car rental counters are just outside to the right, and the taxi stand is straight ahead as you exit—everything's clearly marked and easy to navigate. The whole airport operates with that laid-back Aruba efficiency—nothing feels rushed or chaotic, even during busy times. It's one of the easiest Caribbean airports to navigate, especially for first-time visitors.
16. Airport Vehicle Rentals

16. Airport Vehicle Rentals

Having a car is really the best way to explore Aruba—from the stunning beaches to the rugged northeast coast and everything in between. People who assume they don't need one often find themselves scrambling to rent midway through their trip, especially during high season when availability gets tight. The major international rental companies are all conveniently located right at the airport. As you exit the arrivals hall, turn right and you'll find Avis (+297 582-2847), Budget (+297 582-8600), Hertz (+297 582-1845), Thrifty (+297 583-5335), Dollar, and Alamo/National with desks ready to help. Check-in happens at their counters, then it's just a short walk across to the parking area to pick up your vehicle. Several companies also offer online reservations with airport pickup.
17. Local Vehicle Rentals

17. Local Vehicle Rentals

Beyond the big-name agencies, several smaller local rental companies offer competitive rates, more personalized service, and often include insurance in their quoted prices—something the major agencies tend to charge extra for. These local operators know the island inside and out and are typically more flexible with pickup and drop-off arrangements.
19. Bus Transport to Accommodations

19. Bus Transport to Accommodations

Many hotels and resorts offer airport transfers—it's worth checking with your accommodation before you book other transport. Taxis are also readily available right outside the arrivals hall and operate 24/7 with government-regulated fixed rates. The fare to most hotel areas ranges from $21 to Eagle Beach/Palm Beach area, and there's no need to pre-book unless you prefer the peace of mind. The public bus (Arubus Line L2) stops just outside the airport property on the main road and costs only $2.60 to reach Oranjestad, though buses run hourly so there can be a wait. If you're on a budget and traveling light, this works great. For context on distances: the airport to Oranjestad is about 10 minutes by car, Eagle Beach is 15 minutes, and Palm Beach is about 20 minutes north. Private airport transfers through companies like Welcome Pickups, El Tours (+297 522-4400), or De Palm Tours offer pre-arranged, stress-free service—your driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign and handles your bags. Prices for private transfers start around $65-75, or about $12 per person for shared shuttles. Book at least 24 hours in advance for the best rates and guaranteed pickup.
20: Taxi to Accommodations

20: Taxi to Accommodations

Taxis are lined up just outside the arrivals hall to the left, and they're one of the easiest and most reliable ways to get from the airport to your hotel. Some taxis have meters, but most don't—Aruba uses a fixed-fare system based on destination zones, which are set by the Department of Public Traffic. Always confirm the price with your driver before you get in, and don't be surprised if it's quoted in both US dollars and Aruban florins (the exchange rate is pegged at AWG 1.80 to $1.00 USD). You can also book taxis in advance, and some drivers will meet you right at the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name—this is especially helpful if you're arriving late at night or traveling with a lot of luggage. Airport taxi rates are government-regulated, so you won't need to haggle. As examples: a ride to downtown Oranjestad costs about $21 USD during the day ($24 at night), to the low-rise hotels around Eagle Beach it's roughly $26-28 USD, and to the high-rise hotels in Palm Beach it's around $30-31 USD. These prices are per taxi (not per person) and can accommodate up to five passengers, with kids under age two not counted toward the passenger limit. There's a $3 USD surcharge on Sundays, official holidays, and between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Also, each passenger gets one piece of luggage included, but additional bags cost $2 USD each. Taxis in Aruba are cash-only (US dollars or florins), so have small bills ready—drivers may not always have change for large notes. Tipping isn't required but rounding up or adding 10-15% for great service is always appreciated. If you need to call a taxi, here are some reliable companies: Aruba Taxi Company (+297 587-1300), Taxi Address Service available 24/7 (+297 587-5900), and Arubas Transfer Tour & Taxi (+297 582-2116).
21: Gas Stations

21: Gas Stations

Gas stations are scattered around the island and are generally open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, though a few stay open later. They all accept both US dollars and Aruban florins, and most also take major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. You'll typically need to pay first if you're at a self-service pump—just head inside to the cashier before you start fueling. Many stations also offer full-service, where an attendant will pump the gas for you (and honestly, it's nice to just sit back and let someone else do it in the heat!). The fuel pumps measure in liters (not gallons), so if you're more familiar with gallons, just remember that one gallon equals about 3.8 liters. There are two types of fuel available: regular unleaded gasoline (marked with red handles) and diesel (marked with green or black handles). Gas prices are set by the government and are the same at every station across the island, so there's no need to shop around. If you don't use as much fuel as you thought, just go back to the attendant with your pump number and they'll sort out a partial refund. You'll find gas stations conveniently located in Oranjestad, along the main tourist areas near Palm Beach, in San Nicolas, and along the major highways. Some well-known stations include Cura Cabai Gas Station (open 6 AM-11 PM daily), Paradera Gas Station, and several Texaco and Citgo locations around the island. Pro tip: gas stations can get busy during the middle of the day, especially during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid the lines, fill up early in the morning or later in the evening when traffic is lighter.
22: Driving Basics

22: Driving Basics

The best way to explore Aruba's hidden beaches and off-the-beaten-path spots is definitely by car. The good news? Driving here is pretty straightforward. Aruba drives on the right-hand side of the road (just like the US and Canada), and while the roads are mostly paved and well-maintained, you'll encounter some bumpy stretches—especially if you venture out to more remote beaches or into Arikok National Park. A few of the really remote areas have dirt roads, so if adventure is on your agenda, consider renting a 4x4 or SUV. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour, not miles, so make sure you're reading the signs correctly. In urban and residential areas, the speed limit is typically 30-40 km/h (about 18-25 mph). Out of town on main roads, it's usually 60 km/h (around 37 mph), and on the faster highways like L.G. Smith Boulevard, you can drive up to 80 km/h (about 50 mph). There are plenty of speed limit signs, especially in school zones and populated areas, so keep your eyes peeled. Aruba also has a lot of roundabouts—they might take a minute to get used to if you're not familiar with them, but just remember: traffic already in the roundabout has the right of way, and you need to yield before entering. At intersections without traffic lights or signs, vehicles approaching from the right have the right of way. When making a left turn, you must yield to oncoming traffic. One unique thing about Aruba's gas stations—most are not self-service. An attendant will pump your gas for you, which is actually pretty nice! If you do encounter a self-service pump, you'll need to pay inside first before pumping. Also, watch out for goats and donkeys, which sometimes wander onto the roads, especially near Arikok National Park. Drive carefully on wet roads—the occasional rainfall can mix with road oil and create surprisingly slippery conditions.