Curaçao and Aruba are popular island destinations located in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean.
Many tourists visiting this area wish to travel between the Caribbean islands during their stay. Here you can find information on visiting Curaçao from Aruba, including transport links, practical advice and travel tips.
Key Information on Curaçao: Location and Islands
Aruba and Curaçao are neighboring Caribbean islands located to the north of Venezuela. Both island nations are autonomous countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Curaçao is made up of 2 islands:
- Mainland Curaçao, where the country’s capital city, Willemstad, is located
- Klein Curaçao, a small uninhabited island often visited for diving excursions and day trips
Mainland Curaçao is larger than the island of Aruba.
How far is Curaçao from Aruba?
Curaçao is located around 70 miles east of Aruba. Given the short distance between the islands, it’s possible for travelers to explore both countries during their stay in the Caribbean.
How To Travel Between Aruba and Curaçao
There are no regular ferries which run between Aruba and Curaçao. If you want to go by boat, you’ll need to charter a private crossing.
You can travel by plane between the two islands, with an approximate flight time of 35 minutes.
Many airlines offer direct flights between Aruba and Curaçao. Typically, flights run throughout the day, with options from early morning into late evening.
Aruba’s airport, Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), is close to the island’s capital city, Oranjestad.
Curaçao International Airport (CUR) is located in Willemstad.
Once you’ve arrived in Curaçao, there are a number of public transport options and taxi services available to continue your journey on the island.
Curaçao entry requirements
Before you travel to the Caribbean, you should check the entry requirements for Aruba from Curaçao or the destinations you want to visit on your trip. There are border controls between Aruba and Curaçao because they are separate nations.
As the two islands are member countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, similar entry rules apply for both Aruba and Curaçao.
Visa requirements for Curaçao
Citizens and residence permit holders of many countries do not need a visa to visit Curaçao. This includes:
- EU countries
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- Most South American and Caribbean countries
You will not need a visa to transit through Aruba or Curaçao by plane. Cruise ship passengers are also visa-exempt if their stay in port on either island does not exceed 24 hours.
If you need a visa, you can apply for an entry pass for all Caribbean parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at a Dutch embassy or consulate.
What documentation do I need to travel from Curaçao to Aruba?
Both Aruba and Curaçao have the following entry requirements for visa-exempt travelers:
- A passport that’s valid for your whole stay and is not more than 10 years old
- Evidence of your travel plans, such as hotel reservations, or return flight tickets
- Proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay (approximately USD 150 per person per day)
- Completed entry card
When arriving in Curaçao, you’ll need to present a completed Digital Immigration Card. The form gives local officials some information about passengers arriving on the island, such as your personal data and travel plans.
You can complete the Curaçao entry card online. It’s very similar to Aruba’s mandatory Embarkation and Disembarkation Card.
Can you take a day trip from Aruba to Curaçao?
Thanks to the short flight duration, it’s possible to visit Curaçao from Aruba for a day-trip.
As flights between Aruba and Curaçao run regularly, many travelers opt to spend time visiting a neighboring island during their trip to the Lesser Antilles.
Practical Tips for Visiting Curaçao
The following information can help you to prepare for your trip to Curaçao from Aruba.
What currency is used in Aruba and Curaçao?
The official currency used in Aruba and Curaçao is the Aruban Florin, also known as the Antillean Guilder.
However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in both Aruba and Curaçao, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
What is the official language of Curaçao?
Curaçao and Aruba have three official languages — Papiamento, Dutch, and English. Spanish and Portuguese are also commonly spoken.
Papiamento is a Portuguese creole, influenced by African, Dutch and Spanish languages. It’s the most common language amongst locals.
The majority of residents of Curaçao and Aruba speak several languages, so it’s usually easy to communicate during your stay.
Health and safety advice for travelers visiting Curaçao
Curaçao and Aruba are generally considered to be safe for visitors. The following steps can help to ensure you enjoy a safe visit to Curaçao:
- Keep copies of essential documents, such as passports or insurance information
- Use designated safe swimming areas
- Avoid walking in isolated areas at night
- Follow local advice on weather conditions
Vaccine information for travelers visiting Aruba and Curaçao
You’re recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines before traveling to Aruba or Curaçao.
If you’re traveling from a yellow fever-endemic country, you’ll need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination. There are no other essential vaccinations required for entry to either island.
