Roads in Aruba are good and touring by car or 4-wheel drive jeep is one of the most pleasant ways to explore the island.
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts must be worn. The speed limit is 40kph (25mph) in urban areas and 80kmph (50 mph) outside towns. Right turns on red lights are prohibited.
Much of Oranjestad's traffic is one-way. At intersections where there are no road signs, traffic from your right has the right of way. Traffic can become congested just before 9am and just after 5pm on weekdays.
Car hire: Most of the major car hire companies, including Avis, Budget and Hertz as well as several local agencies have offices at the airport and at major hotels. Most agencies offer 3-day specials, as well as a free delivery and pickup service.
The minimum age for hiring a car is 21 to 25 (maximum 65 to 70), depending on the company.
A valid foreign licence or an International Driving Permit, held for at least three years, are both acceptable. Insurance is recommended.
Taxi: Taxis are not metered. Rates are fixed but should be checked before getting into the cab. There is no need to tip drivers except for help with unusually heavy luggage.
Hailing a taxi on the street is difficult, but you'll find plenty of taxis at hotels. Most drivers speak good English and are willing to give you a tour of the island. Expect to pay US$45 per hour for a maximum of five passengers.
Note: Shirtless, wet or damp passengers are not allowed, and you may face US$50 charge for seat damage from wet clothing or sharp objects.
Bike: Scooters, motorbikes and bicycles are available to hire. Headgear is required by law for all two-wheel vehicles.
Bus: Aruba has an excellent public bus system, with a regular, reliable amd inexpensive service.
Buses run roughly every 20 minutes from 8am to 6pm and every hour from 6pm to midnight, Monday through Saturday. On Sunday and public holidays, service is less frequent.
Schedules are available at Arubus (tel.297/588-0617; www.arubus.com) at the central terminal on Zoutmanstraat in Oranjestad. Your hotel will also know when local buses pass by. There's a bus stop in front of most hotels.
Open-air and double-decker streetcars connect Oranjestad with the cruise ship port. The ride is free.
Sea: Ferries from the mainland depart daily to De Palm Island. The crossing takes five minutes.
Other: It's easy to book a half-day Jeep, ATV, or dune buggy guided tour that provides an opportunity to explore the island as part of an off-road caravan, where you get to see the wild side of Aruba but not have to worry about getting lost.
Latest update: How to get around Aruba: 6 May, 2022
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