Travel To Aruba: What Americans Need To Know

Aruba is a small Caribbean island located just north of Venezuela, which has been synonymous with paradise for American travellers. The island is known for its hurricane-free skies, cool trade winds, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine. Aruba is only a three-hour flight from Miami, Florida, making it a quick trip for many South and North Americans.

The CDC has warned Americans against travelling to Aruba, recommending that people who do so should ensure they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Aruba is ranked as Level 4, or Very High on the scale of COVID-19 levels.

Aruba is officially part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with the capital city, Oranjestad, being named after King William I of the Netherlands. The island has a unique blend of cultures, with the local language, Papiamento, being a creole language that draws heavily on Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch.

Aruba offers a range of experiences for visitors, from high-rise hotels and casinos in Palm Beach to low-key, personalised service in smaller hotels in Eagle Beach. The island also boasts a vibrant food scene, with creative cuisine that combines local ingredients in new ways.

With its convenient location, idyllic weather, and diverse attractions, Aruba is a popular destination for travellers seeking sun, sea, and relaxation.

Travel requirements for Americans going to Aruba

Aruba is a small Caribbean island located just north of Venezuela and is known as "One Happy Island". It is an easy destination for U.S. tourists to visit, with English being widely spoken and the U.S. dollar accepted across the island. Here are the key travel requirements for Americans travelling to Aruba:

Entry Requirements:

• A valid passport for the duration of your stay.
• A visa, if required (check with the Aruba Tourism Authority or Directorate of Alien Integration, Policy and Admission (DIMAS) for more information).
• A completed and approved Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) Card. There is a \$20 sustainability fee for the ED Card for visitors arriving by air.
• A valid return or onward ticket.
• Proof of accommodation reservation or property ownership in Aruba, if requested.
• Proof of adequate financial means for the duration of your stay, if requested.
• Required vaccinations and certificates of proof, especially for travellers from Central America, Latin America and Africa.

Other Requirements:

• Download the Aruba Health App prior to travel for information on COVID-19 health procedures and faster results for Molecular PCR COVID-19 tests.
• Global Entry for US travellers to avoid long lines at security screening points (requires pre-approval and background checks).
• Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is highly recommended.
• Aruba Visitor Insurance is mandatory for all U.S. travellers to ensure coverage for any health issues that may arise during their stay.
• Negative COVID-19 test results no more than one day before arrival for travellers aged 12 and above (fully vaccinated travellers can show proof of vaccination instead).

Please note that these requirements are subject to change, and it is recommended to check the official Aruba tourism websites for the most up-to-date information before travelling.

Aruba's location and how to get there

Aruba is a small Caribbean island, located in the southern Caribbean Sea, approximately 15 to 18 miles north of Venezuela. It is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is known for its year-round pleasant climate, outside of the hurricane belt, and its stunning landscapes. The island has a total land area of about 69 square miles, with a length of 20 miles and a width of 6 miles at its widest point.

Aruba's location is easily accessible for travellers from North America, South America, and Europe, thanks to its well-connected international airport. Direct flights are available from numerous major cities in these regions, making it a convenient destination for tourists. The island's capital, Oranjestad, located on the western coast, is a focal point for both residents and visitors, offering a blend of modern amenities and historical landmarks.

The island's proximity to South America, particularly Venezuela, has influenced various aspects of Aruban culture, including its cuisine, language, and traditions. This blend of indigenous Arawakan, Spanish, Dutch, and African influences enhances the appeal of Aruba for travellers seeking a unique and diverse experience.

To enter Aruba, visitors must complete specific requirements, including an online embarkation/disembarkation card, a health assessment, and a negative COVID-19 test result. Additionally, Aruba Visitor Insurance is mandatory for all visitors to ensure coverage for any health issues during their stay.

Upon arrival, the island's compact nature makes it easy for exploration. The official languages, Dutch and Papiamento, along with the wide acceptance of the US dollar, further contribute to a comfortable and navigable environment for visitors. The accessibility of ground transportation, such as rental cars, taxis, buses, or hired drivers, ensures a smooth transition from the airport to accommodations, with many hotels providing shuttle or pick-up services as well.

Aruba's weather and climate

Aruba has a tropical climate, with a median and fairly constant temperature of 82 °Fahrenheit (28 °Celsius). The island is located 12 degrees 30' north of the equator, and its temperature varies between 77 °Fahrenheit and 91 °Fahrenheit throughout the year. The climate is hot, oppressive, extremely windy, and overcast.

The best time of year to visit Aruba for hot-weather activities is from late December to late March. The temperature is lowest between December and March and highest between May and October. The island experiences a "rain" season, with October through January accounting for most of the rainfall, which averages about 15-18 inches annually.

Aruba is located outside the hurricane belt, which makes it a secure and reliable destination for vacations year-round. The island experiences trade winds that cool the island, making sunbathing on the beaches more tolerable. However, it is important to take precautions as the sun is strong, especially between 11 am and 2:30 pm, and the use of high-SPF sunscreens is recommended, especially for fair-skinned individuals.

Things to do in Aruba

Yes, Americans can travel to Aruba! Here are some of the best things to do when visiting:

Explore the beaches

Aruba is known for its pristine beaches with tranquil scenery and calm waters. Eagle Beach is a must-visit, renowned for its iconic Fofoti trees and quiet atmosphere. Palm Beach offers white sands and excellent swimming conditions. For those looking for a quiet and secluded beach, Arashi Beach is a great option. If you're travelling with kids, Baby Beach is a hit, with its warm, shallow waters and gentle waves.

Adventure activities

For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of options in Aruba. Rent an ATV and explore the island, go snorkelling, or visit the Natural Pool. Take a UTV tour to explore the island's secret beach and cave pool, or opt for a jeep tour to discover the natural pool, caves, and Baby Beach. For something more relaxing, consider a catamaran cruise or a submarine expedition.

Nature and wildlife

Explore Arikok National Park, which comprises almost 20% of the island. Enjoy the rugged terrain, desert-like hills, and breathtaking coastline. The Donkey Sanctuary Aruba is another great option to get up close with nature and wildlife.

Cultural experiences

To learn about Aruba's culture and history, visit the Aruba Aloe Factory, Museum, and Store. The Aruba Aloe Museum highlights the history of aloe cultivation on the island, and you can also purchase high-quality aloe products.

Dining and nightlife

For dinner, Lima Bistro is highly recommended, with its amazing food and atmosphere. For drinks and a great atmosphere, check out the Bohemian Bar and Restaurant. Smokey Joe is a great option for al fresco dining and BBQ.

Aruba truly is a happy island, offering a diverse range of experiences to cater to different interests!

Aruba's food and restaurant scene

Aruba's food scene is incredibly diverse, reflecting the island's cultural diversity and rich blend of global influences. With over 250 eateries, Aruba is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from casual food trucks to fine dining experiences.

Food Trucks

For those who prefer casual dining, Aruba's food trucks offer a wide variety of options. Candela Grill, for example, serves up delicious steak and cheese platters, as well as seafood options like their famous conch sandwich. Julio's Food Corner brings Latin flavours to the island, with dishes like tequeños, arepas, and their signature patacón. Chalo Burger is another popular choice, known for its generous portions and creative toppings.

Fine Dining

When it comes to fine dining, Aruba boasts an impressive array of options. Infini, led by Chef Urvin Croes, offers an exquisite eight-course chef's table experience featuring locally sourced ingredients. Olivia, a chic Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, showcases the creativity and diversity of Aruba's culinary scene with vegetarian, vegan, meat, and fish options. Lima Bistro, headed by Chef Teddy Bouroncle, showcases the best of Peruvian cuisine with a unique Aruban twist, incorporating local ingredients and flavours.

Traditional Dishes

Traditional Aruban dishes are not to be missed. The national dish, keshi yena, is a type of stuffed cheese casserole with a variety of fillings and toppings. Other must-try dishes include pan bati (cornflour flatbread/pancake), carni stoba (beef stew), and pastechis (deep-fried stuffed pastries). For an authentic Aruban dining experience, head to Papiamento in Noord or Elements Restaurant at the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort.

Seafood

Seafood is a cornerstone of Aruban cuisine, with fresh catches readily available. Taste My Aruba, housed in a restored century-old building, serves the freshest fish, expertly prepared with traditional Creole sauces. For an intimate dining experience, The Old Man and the Sea in Savaneta offers Caribbean rock lobster, grilled to perfection and served with penne pasta.

International Flavours

Aruba also caters to a wide range of international tastes. From Italian, Japanese, and Belgian to Mediterranean, Brazilian, and Peruvian, there is something for everyone. The Dutch Pancakehouse in Oranjestad serves up light and thin Dutch pancakes, both sweet and savoury. Cuba's Cookin' in the Renaissance Marketplace takes diners on a journey to Cuba with traditional dishes like ropa vieja and live Latin music.

Aruba's culinary scene is a celebration of the island's cultural diversity, offering a unique blend of flavours that will satisfy any food lover's cravings.

Frequently asked questions