Aruba travel guide
Sunny, breezy and easy to visit, with famous white-sand beaches and a wild national park.
Aruba is the westernmost ABC island and a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is dry, steadily sunny and cooled by trade winds, and its calm western beaches are among the most photographed in the Caribbean. Inland and along the north coast the landscape turns rugged, with cactus, boulders and crashing surf.
Open Aruba on the map- Capital
- Oranjestad
- Status
- Constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Currency
- Aruban florin; US dollars widely accepted
- Languages
- Papiamento, Dutch, English, Spanish
- Airport
- Queen Beatrix International (AUA)
Top things to do
- Relax at Eagle Beach, known for its wide sand and the twisted fofoti trees.
- Explore Arikok National Park, which covers a large part of the island: caves with old rock drawings, desert trails and the Natural Pool, a sheltered rock pool on the rough north coast. Access to the pool is best with a 4x4 or a guided tour.
- Drive to the California Lighthouse at the northern tip for sunset.
- Eat fresh fish at a local waterfront spot in Savaneta.
- Walk the colourful streets of Oranjestad.
Diving and snorkelling
The SS Antilla, a large German cargo ship scuttled during the Second World War, is one of the region's best-known wrecks and is visible from the surface in calm conditions. Snorkellers also enjoy Boca Catalina and Mangel Halto. The west coast is generally calmer than the windward north and east coasts.
Getting there and around
Aruba has many direct flights from North America, Europe and South America. US-bound travellers can clear US immigration and customs at the airport before departure. Buses, taxis and rental cars are all easy to use.
Good to know
- The sun is strong and the breeze hides it. Reapply sunscreen and drink water.
- Swimming on the north and east coasts can be dangerous because of currents and waves.
Schedules, prices and opening hours change often. Always confirm details with operators before you travel.