Our island of Aruba is not large, so it's very easy to get around. Most of you will arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport via charter and scheduled flights. Cruise ships often dock at our island and use it as a starting point for Caribbean cruising.

While you may opt to get around to restaurants and nightclubs by taxi, many have discovered that Aruba's bus system is efficient, easy to use and quite affordable. The bus runs frequently between the main bus station in downtown Oranjestad and the entire hotel strip.

If you'd like to explore the whole island, you can rent a scooter, or a motorcycle. Car rentals are available, but most people prefer to rent a 4-wheel drive jeep because Aruba's terrain can be rugged in remote areas. Luxurious motorcoach tours are also available that will pick you up at your hotel.
Driving is on the right side of the road, foreign and international driving licenses accepted.
Free parking throughout the island; no right turns on red lights.

Because of Aruba's fine weather, a terrific way to get around is to rent a small motorcycle or scooter, or even a Harley! You will really get a feel for the distinctive topography and enjoy the "easy riding" at the same time.

On and off road adventures are a specialty of Aruba and there are many places that rent motorbikes. A regular driver's license is all you need! Helmets are supplied.

There is inexpensive and reliable daily bus service between all the districts and the hotel areas. Check at your hotel for schedules and hours.

The main bus station is located in downtown Oranjestad across from the waterfront shops and restaurants. From here, one can travel to anywhere along the hotel stretch. Originally only popular with the locals, tourists are discovering that this is an inexpensive and efficient way to get around.

Line Services: The largest operator is Arubus, a Government company that owns 29 buses, presently operating six lines. The most important one is the route from San Nicolas to Oranjestad and further on to the hotel zone. This line has a share of some 80% in the total passenger transport of Arubus.

The other routes transport passengers from the smaller population centers to Oranjestad, San Nicolas and the hotel zone. In peak hours Arubus uses 14 buses for the line services.

Mini Buses: Around 40 buses (12 seats) supply regular transport on the road from San Nicolas to Oranjestad. These buses are privately owned.

Transportation between your hotel and the airport can be accomplished by charter motorcoach from De Palm Tours.

If you are adventurous and want to explore all Aruba has to offer, it's a good idea to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle. The roads to many great sites are often rugged and not suitable for a car. Make sure that your spare tire is full of air before heading out into the rough terrain. 4-wheel drive vehicles are numerous but they are often hard to get because they are used for "Jeep Safari," popular sightseeing day trips.

If you want air conditioning and plan to stick to the main paved roads, there are many types of cars to choose from. You can rent your vehicle at the airport or you can call and ask to be picked up at your hotel.

*      Arubans drive on the right-hand side of the road.
*     The minimum age of 21-25 and the maximum of 65-70 vary slighty by company.
*     International driving license or any valid license held for at least two full years is required.
*     Unlimited mileage; rates subject to change without notice.
*     Deposit of US $500 or open signed credit card.
*     Windsurf roof racks upon availability and upon request.
*     Pick up service available, with some exceptions, at the cruise terminal.
*     Insurance recommended, but does not cover if the driver is intoxicated in a car accident.

The taxi dispatch office, which can also arrange taxi tours, is located at Pos Abou z/n in Oranjestad, behind the Eagle Bowling Palace on the Sasaki road. Taxis do not have meters; rates are fixed and should be checked in advance. Most taxi drivers have participated in the government's Tourism Awareness Program.

Click here to see our road signs