Aruba Transportation Guide

Aruba Transportation Guide: Rent a car for flexibility, use taxis for convenience, and consider public buses for budget-friendly travel options.

Airports

Aruba Transportation Guide – International Airports

Aruba has one major international airport:

Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA): Located in Oranjestad, the capital city of Aruba, Queen Beatrix International Airport is the main gateway for visitors arriving by air. It is named after Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. The airport has modern facilities and serves as a hub for both international and regional flights. Several major airlines operate regular flights to and from Aruba, connecting the island with destinations in the Caribbean, North America, South America, and Europe.

Queen Beatrix International Airport offers various amenities and services to travelers, including shops, restaurants, car rental services, currency exchange, and duty-free shopping. The airport is situated just a short distance from popular tourist areas and resorts, making it convenient for travelers to reach their accommodations upon arrival.

It’s important to note that while Queen Beatrix International Airport is the primary international airport in Aruba, the island also has other smaller airports and airfields for domestic or private flights.

National Airports

Aruba has several national airports, which are smaller airports serving domestic flights and regional connections within the island and nearby destinations. Here are some of the national airports in Aruba:

Reina Beatrix International Airport (AUA): Although Reina Beatrix International Airport is primarily known as the international airport, it also serves as the main national airport of Aruba. Domestic flights operated by local airlines connect Aruba with other islands in the Dutch Caribbean, such as Bonaire and Curaçao.

Flamingo International Airport (BON): Flamingo International Airport, located on the nearby island of Bonaire, serves as a national airport for Aruba. It offers domestic flights connecting Bonaire with Aruba and other neighboring islands.

Hato International Airport (CUR): Hato International Airport, situated on the island of Curaçao, is another national airport that provides domestic connections to Aruba. Local airlines operate flights between Curaçao and Aruba, making it a convenient option for travel between the two islands.

These national airports offer domestic flights within the Dutch Caribbean and provide convenient connections for travel between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.

Aruba Transportation Guide – Trains

Aruba does not have a train system. The island does not have any train infrastructure or train services available for public transportation. Given its small size and relatively flat terrain, other modes of transportation, such as buses, taxis, and rental vehicles, are the primary means of getting around the island.

If you are planning to visit Aruba, you can rely on these alternative modes of transportation to explore the island and reach your desired destinations.

Buses operate on set routes and can be an affordable option for getting around, while taxis provide convenient door-to-door service. Rental vehicles, including cars, scooters, or bicycles, are also available for those who prefer more independence and flexibility in their travel.

Aruba’s road network is well-developed, making it easy to navigate the island by land. However, it’s worth noting that traffic can be heavier in more populated areas, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Trains

Buses

Aruba Transportation Guide – Buses

Aruba has a reliable and affordable public bus system that serves as a popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists. The bus network covers major areas of the island, making it convenient to explore different parts of Aruba. Here’s some information about the bus system in Aruba:

Arubus:

The public bus service in Aruba is operated by Arubus, the national bus company. Arubus operates a fleet of modern buses that are comfortable and air-conditioned.

Bus Routes:

Arubus has several bus routes that connect different parts of the island, including popular tourist areas, residential neighborhoods, and major attractions. The bus routes are numbered, and each route has specific stops along its path. You can check the official Arubus website or inquire locally for route maps and schedules.

Frequency and Timings:

Buses in Aruba generally operate from early morning until late evening. The frequency of buses varies depending on the route and time of day. During peak hours, buses tend to run more frequently, while the frequency may be reduced during off-peak hours. It’s advisable to check the bus schedules in advance or inquire locally for the most accurate timings.

Fares and Payment:

Bus fares in Aruba are relatively low, and exact change is required when boarding the bus. Arubus operates on a cash-only basis, so it’s recommended to carry small denominations of local currency (Aruban florins) or US dollars to pay for your bus fare. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, a single bus fare was around AWG 2-3.

Bus Stops:

Bus stops are marked with yellow signs along the main roads. It’s important to wait at designated bus stops for the bus to arrive. To board the bus, signal the driver as it approaches.

Tourist Pass:

Arubus offers a tourist pass called the “Arubus Explore” pass, which allows unlimited bus rides for a specified duration (such as 1 day, 3 days, or 7 days). This pass can be convenient for visitors planning to use the bus frequently during their stay.

Using the public bus system in Aruba can be an economical and convenient way to get around the island, especially for shorter distances and popular routes.