Transportation System in Aruba – Complete Overview
Aruba has a well-organized, safe, and accessible transportation system that supports locals and the tourism industry. While the island is relatively small (about 180 km²), it offers a mix of public buses, taxis, rental cars, and biking routes.
1. Public Bus System
Arubus N.V.
- The main public transportation provider on the island.
- Operates government-subsidized buses on major routes.
Key Features:
- Affordable fares
- Runs between Oranjestad (capital) and key areas like:
- San Nicolas
- Palm Beach
- Eagle Beach
- Aruba Airport
- Timetable-based, with more buses during peak hours
- Main terminal: Located in Oranjestad, near the cruise ship port
2. Taxis
- Regulated by the government
- No meters; fixed fares based on zones
- Available at hotels, airport, and tourist zones
- Rates are per car, not per passenger
- Most drivers speak English, Papiamento, Dutch, and Spanish
Common Destinations:
| Route | Approx. Fare (USD) |
|---|---|
| Airport to Eagle Beach | $25 – $30 |
| Airport to Palm Beach | $30 – $35 |
| Palm Beach to Oranjestad | $15 – $20 |
3. Car Rentals
- Popular among tourists who want to explore freely
- Available at Queen Beatrix International Airport, hotels, and downtown
- Roads are well-paved, and driving is on the right-hand side
- Valid foreign/international driver’s licenses accepted
Popular Rental Companies:
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Local providers (e.g., Jay’s Car Rental)
4. Bicycles and Scooters
- Increasingly popular for short distances and eco-tourism
- Many hotels offer rentals or guided bike tours
- Aruba is developing more bike-friendly lanes and trails, especially near coastal routes
5. Private Minivans & Hotel Shuttles
- Often used by:
- Resorts for airport pick-ups
- Tour operators
- Available for private group tours and excursions
6. Air Transport (Domestic)
- Aruba is a single-island territory, so it has no domestic flights
- All flights go through Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) for international travel
7. Sea Transport & Cruise Terminal
- Aruba has no internal ferry service, but:
- Cruise ships dock daily in Oranjestad
- Water taxis offer short rides to nearby piers
- Private yachts and charter boats are popular for tours
8. Transportation Tips for Visitors
- Aruba is small: most places are 10–30 minutes apart
- Public buses are safe and reliable, but less frequent at night
- Taxis and rentals are best for flexibility
- Traffic is light, but can get busy in Oranjestad during cruise days
