This site uses cookies. Some are essential while others improve your browsing experience and allow us to advertise. For more info visit the privacy policy page.
Your preferences have been updated.
We communicate in several languages, including English, but it’s the unique rhythm of Papiamento that will charm you.
Dutch and the local language of Papiamento are the official languages of Aruba, but most Arubans speak a minimum of four languages, including English and Spanish.
Papiamento embodies the friendliness for which the local population is known. The native language’s inclusive and open nature is reflected by its unique sayings and mannerisms.
Unique to the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, Papiamento evolved from a rudimentary pidgin language—utilized for the purpose of communication among peoples with different native tongues—into the more complex language it is today. At its base, the language is an Afro-Portuguese Creole, which, over the years, has grown in syntax and lexicon with increased borrowings from Dutch, English, and Spanish while still retaining its own unique rhythm and meanings.
Evidence of its first widespread use can be observed in official documents from Curacao from the early 18th century. Throughout the middle of the 19th century, Papiamento was the language of choice for written materials, including Roman Catholic hymnals and schoolbooks. The first Papiamento-language newspaper soon followed with the apt moniker of Civilisado (The Civilizer) in 1871. Papiamento was used as the language of instruction in schools until Dutch subsidies came with the stipulation that lessons be taught solely in Dutch. However, Papiamento has recently been reintroduced in the local educational system.
Although in use as the native language for over 300 years, Papiamento was only declared Aruba's official language, alongside Dutch, on March 19, 2003.
Bon bini! = Welcome!
Bon dia. / Bon tardi. / Bon nochi. = Good morning. / Good afternoon. / Good evening.
Con ta bai? = How are you?
Mi ta bon! = I am well!
Danki. = Thank you.
Aruba ta dushi! = Aruba is lovely!
In the Fontein cave situated in the Arikok National Park and at the Ayo Rock Formation you can see the Arawak drawings and carvings.
One of the best things about the amount of languages spoken in Aruba is that you’ll always have someone to chat with. Whether your native language is English, Dutch, Spanish, French, Chinese, Italian or something completely different, chances are, you will meet an Aruban that could very easily communicate with you. Arubans are especially fluent in Papiamento and Dutch, as those are the official languages of Aruba. If you don’t know those languages yet, perhaps you will make a friend who can teach you during you next trip to the One happy island.
Aruba is not just a tropical paradise. It’s a center of Caribbean art and culture.
ExploreWe’re just getting started with the amazing effects Aruba has to offer. Dig into your trip details below to unlock a Caribbean experience that will fill you with sunshine and send you home with a happy afterglow that never fades.
myAruba planner
Save your favorite places and experiences to a custom itinerary you can manage while you're visiting the island: Start Planning