Flights to Aruba

Getting around the island

Aruba is about 30 km long, so nowhere is far. The airport is a ten-minute drive from Oranjestad and around 25 minutes from the high-rise hotels of Palm Beach. Taxis charge fixed fares, Arubus public buses link the capital with the hotel strip, and hire cars are easy to arrange. Traffic drives on the right, unlike most British-linked islands nearby.

History and culture

The Spanish arrived around 1499 but found the dry island of little use, and the Dutch took it in 1636. Gold was mined here in the 19th century, then oil refining at San Nicolas drove the economy. Aruba has been a separate country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands since 1986. Papiamento and Dutch are the official languages, and most people also speak English and Spanish.

Beaches and the outdoors

The calm west coast has Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, while the rugged north-east is battered by Atlantic waves. Arikok National Park covers almost a fifth of the island, with caves, rock drawings and a sheltered natural pool reached by four-wheel drive or on foot.

Entry, money and time

British visitors don't need a visa for a holiday, but everyone must fill in the online ED card, a short entry form, before travelling. The Aruban florin is the currency, and US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Aruba is four hours behind the UK in winter and five in summer. Check current UK government travel advice and your insurance before you go.

When to go

Temperatures stay around 31°C all year, rain is rare and the trade winds keep the heat bearable. December to April is the busiest and priciest period, while late spring and autumn bring lower fares and quieter beaches. Carnival builds through January and February, ending with a grand parade in Oranjestad.

Want help comparing the Amsterdam and US connections? Call 020 7871 4545 and we'll find the fares that fit your dates.