Transportation

Transportation in Aruba: Getting Around the Island

There’s no better feeling than being well prepared with transportation during your vacation. Aruba offers safe, reliable, and easy options to help you move comfortably across the island. Since distances can be long and the sun can be strong, having transportation arranged in advance takes one more thing off your travel to-do list.

How Do I Travel Within Aruba?

The easiest and most comfortable way to get around Aruba is by car. While the island is not large, its beaches, natural parks, and attractions are spread out, making a rental car the most flexible option.

Public transportation is available as well:

Buses

Aruba has a reliable public transportation system managed by Arubus NV. Buses connect key areas such as Oranjestad, Palm Beach, Noord, San Nicolas, and other popular tourist destinations. Routes are clearly numbered, and schedules are available on the Arubus website or app.

In addition to regular buses, there are minibuses operating on certain routes, often stopping when flagged down. While convenient for short trips, most visitors find renting a car more practical for reaching beaches, national parks, and other attractions.

Hotel Shuttles

Some major hotels offer shuttle services to and from downtown Oranjestad or other tourist area’s. Check availability with your hotel reception.

Taxi Services

Taxis are widely available and government-regulated. Most fares are fixed rather than metered, so it’s recommended to agree on the price before starting your trip. They are a safe and convenient option for travelers who prefer not to drive themselves.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is the easiest way to get around in Aruba. While the island is not very big, many beaches, sights, and attractions are spread out. Walking or biking in the heat can be challenging, so most visitors choose a rental car for convenience and flexibility.

To explore Aruba’s transportation in a quick and visual way, you can also watch our Getting Around Aruba Video.

Traffic Rules in Aruba

Driving in Aruba is straightforward, but keep these rules in mind:

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Traffic coming from the right has priority unless signs say otherwise.
• Roundabouts differ per location - always check the signs for right-of-way instructions.
• At T-junctions, cars on the dead-end road must yield to traffic from both directions.
• A valid driver’s license is required; check your rental company’s age rules.
  
  

In Case of an Accident

In case of an accident, contact the police at 911 and your insurance provider. Provide all necessary details and follow their guidance; moving vehicles before authorities arrive is not recommended.

Gas Stations in Aruba

Gas stations are widely available throughout the island. Here some tips for the gas stations: 

• You pay at the counter before filling up, you can also ask for a full tank, in that case you need to leave your debit or credit card at the counter. 
• Some stations have attendants who can help and may expect a small, optional tip.
• Fuel prices are the same across the island.
  
  

Parking in Aruba

Parking is generally simple and often free outside downtown areas. In Oranjestad and other busy zones, paid parking is enforced:

• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8 AM – 6 PM (check local signs for updates)
• Payment is accepted via coins, prepaid cards, or the Flowbird app for digital payment and extensions.
  
  

To park legally:

• Enter your license plate number.
• Select your payment method and duration.
• Pay and collect the ticket.
• Display the ticket visibly on your dashboard.

Outside the paid zones, parking is usually free and easy to find.

Can I Hike or Cycle on the Island?

Hiking and cycling are certainly possible, especially in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. However, they are not recommended as your main way of getting around due to limited bike paths and strong sun.

Is Aruba Easy to Navigate?

Yes, Aruba is easy to navigate thanks to a few main roads that connect the island from east to west. Most visitors get around effortlessly using a mix of maps, apps, and local guidance.

To make your exploration even easier, you can use the My Aruba Guide Travel Magazine, published annually as the island’s premier lifestyle and travel guide. It includes a detailed folding island map, insider tips, articles, videos of Aruba, and scannable QR codes to book tours instantly. The magazine is free of charge and available at more than 500 locations across the island, including the airport, hotels, resorts, B&Bs, restaurants, supermarkets, car rentals, tourist offices, and retail outlets. More information where to find them. 

Most travelers also use the maps.me app for reliable offline navigation.

Read the Magazine

Are There Ferries to Curacao or Bonaire?

There are no ferries between the islands. Travel between Curacao, Aruba, and Bonaire is done by airplane. 

Ready to Explore the Island?

Aruba has so much to explore and My Aruba Guide makes it easy. With 75+ tours and activities across the island, there’s always something that fits your travel style. Whether you prefer to explore independently or don’t have your own transportation, we handpick only the best the island has to offer:

• Off-Road Tours
• Bus Tours
• Wateractivities
• Boat tours

With more than four decades in Aruba’s tourism industry, we know exactly what visitors shouldn’t miss. Our team works closely with the most reliable and experienced tour operators to curate unforgettable experiences - whether you want to relax, explore, or add a little adventure to your vacation.

Why Book with My Aruba Guide?

• Lowest Price Guarantee
• 40+ Years of Local Expertise
• 24-Hour Free Cancellation
• Local Office for On-Island Support
• Trusted & Carefully Selected Partners

Ready to discover the island your way? See all Aruba tours.