Is There Uber in Aruba? How to Get Around in 2023

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Is There Uber in Aruba?

Is there Uber in Aruba? If you’re planning a trip to Aruba, you may be wondering whether you’ll be able to use this convenient and affordable transportation option on the island.

Known as “One Happy Island“, Aruba is a tropical paradise perfect for honeymoons, family-friendly travel, and everything in between.

We have been to Aruba several times with our kids, so we have figured out all the ins and outs associated with getting around the island.

In this post, we’ll explore whether there is Uber in Aruba and what your other transportation options are.

👉 Don’t have time to read the whole article? There is no Uber in Aruba. But you can Book Your Aruba Airport Transportation Here.

🚙 Is There Uber or Lyft in Aruba?

Unfortunately, NO. There is no Uber or Lyft in Aruba in 2023.

Neither Uber nor Lyft currently operates on the island. However, don’t worry – there are still plenty of options available to help you get around.

🚙 What is the Best Way to Get Around Aruba?

Although there is no Uber in Aruba, when it comes to getting around the island, there are a few different options available, depending on your preferences and budget.

🚗 One of the most popular ways to get around the island is by renting a car. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit more remote spots that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.

🛵 And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike or even a moped to explore the island.

🚕 If you don’t want to drive, taxis are readily available and reasonably priced.

🚐 Some hotels and resorts also offer shuttle services to popular attractions, so that’s another option to consider.

🚌 And lastly, Aruba also has public transportation in the form of buses. These buses will take you to the most popular parts of the island and are reasonably priced.

🚙 How Do I Get from the Airport to My Hotel in Aruba?

Getting from the airport to your hotel in Aruba is a fairly straightforward process.

🚐 We would recommend reserving Private Airport Transportation as the quickest and most stress-free option.

Let a private driver meet you at the airport and assist you with your luggage. They will then get you to your hotel quickly, without the hassle of having to stand in line for a taxi.

🚐 Find Airport Transportation options here

Of course, you will also find taxis, as well as car rental kiosks, at the airport.

Another option is to arrange for a shuttle service through your hotel. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, so be sure to check with your accommodation in advance to see if that’s an option.

Whatever option you choose, the journey from the airport to your hotel is relatively short, so you’ll be settling into your accommodations in no time.

Aruba-Airport-Transportation-side-view-of-coach-bus

🚐 Will My Aruba Hotel Provide Free Shuttle Service?

Whether or not your Aruba hotel provides free shuttle service depends on the individual hotel.

Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as to popular attractions on the island.

However, other hotels may not offer this service, or they may charge a fee for transportation.

During one of our trips to Aruba, our hotel provided free round-trip airport transportation. The service needed to be reserved ahead of time, to and from.

And much as the service was great, you had to wait for all passengers to arrive, and you had no control over what time the shuttle returned you to the airport.

🚐 Using Private Transportation in Aruba

There are several forms of private transportation available in Aruba. Depending on your budget, these can range from private drivers to renting your own moped.

🚐 Hiring A Private Driver in Aruba

Hiring a private driver in Aruba can offer several benefits, such as convenience, flexibility, and personalized service.

Advantages of Hiring a Private Driver

Customize your itinerary and visit the attractions that interest you the most.
Do not have to worry about navigating the roads yourself.
Provides insider tips and recommendations on the best places to eat, shop, and sightsee in Aruba, based on their local expertise.

Disadvantages of Hiring a Private Driver

More expensive than other forms of transportation.
Not cost-effective if travelling solo or with a small group.

🚐 Getting Around Aruba by Taking Tours

Taking a tour is a great way to get around and explore Aruba, especially if you’re short on time or want to maximize your sightseeing opportunities.

Advantages of Taking a Tour

A variety of tours are available from guided sightseeing tours to outdoor adventure tours.
knowledgeable and experienced guide to show you around.
includes transportation to and from your hotel.

Disadvantages of Taking a Tour

More expensive than other forms of transportation.
Not have as much flexibility in terms of the itinerary or the pace.
You’ll be travelling with other people and following a set schedule.

🚐 Check prices for Aruba Sightseeing Tours here

🚗 Do I Need a Car in Aruba?

Whether or not you need a car in Aruba depends on your travel plans and personal preferences.

Yes, I Need a Car

If you want more freedom to explore at your own pace.
If you want to explore Aruba beyond the main tourist areas.
If you want to visit areas that may not be included in organized tours.
Because it’s more cost-effective than paying for taxis or tours.

No, I Don’t Need a Car

If you are planning to spend most of your vacation at your resort.
If you are planning to take several organized tours.
If you are only planning to visit popular tourist attractions accessible by public transportation.
If you are only planning to walk around town.

Aruba-Airport-Transportation-SUV-on-the-beach

🚗 Renting a Car in Aruba

Renting a car in Aruba is a popular and convenient way to explore the island at your own pace.

With a rental car, you can visit remote beaches, scenic viewpoints, and hidden gems that may not be easily accessible by public transportation or tours.

Rental cars can be picked up from Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA).

The cost of 🚗 renting a car in Auba is about $50/day. So, depending on how much of the island you want to explore, this may be more cost-effective than taking a taxi or tour.

🚗💨 Check prices and availability for rental cars here.

🚗 Can Americans Drive in Aruba?

Yes, Americans can drive in Aruba using a valid US driver’s license.

Aruba recognizes US driver’s licenses, as well as international driving permits (IDPs) issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).

ruba-Airport-Transportation-Black-SUV-on-beach

🚗 What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Aruba?

To rent a car in Aruba, you will need a few things:

Have a valid driver’s license from your home country.
Some car rental companies in Aruba may require additional documents, such as a passport, proof of address, or proof of return travel.
Driver must be at least 21 years old.
If you are under 25, some car rental companies in Aruba will charge an additional fee.
You will need a valid credit card, as most car rental companies require a deposit to be placed on the card before you can take the car.
You will need 3rd party liability insurance which can be purchased through the rental company.
Advanced reservations are good to have to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

🚗 Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Aruba?

Yes. It is very safe to rent a car in Aruba.

The island has well-maintained roads and driving conditions are usually favorable.

Renting a car in Aruba can be a safe and enjoyable way to explore the island.

🚗 Tips for Driving a Car in Aruba

If you plan to drive a car in Aruba, here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience:

Just like in North America, you drive on the right side of the road in Aruba.
Aruba uses kilometres, not miles.
There are a lot of one-way roads and roundabouts in Aruba.
Be sure to download Google Maps offline in Aruba. There are many areas on the island with no service.
Attendants pump gas for you at gas stations.

🚗 Book your Aruba rental car here

🛵 Can You Rent Motorcycles or Scooters in Aruba?

Yes, you can rent motorcycles and scooters in Aruba.

Many rental companies on the island offer a variety of 🛵 motorbikes and scooters for rent at reasonable rates.

Renting a motorcycle or scooter can be a great way to explore the island and take in the beautiful scenery at your own pace.

Most rental companies will also require that you have a valid motorcycle license from your home country before renting a motorcycle or scooter.

Be sure to check with the rental company in advance to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and to inquire about any additional safety guidelines or restrictions.

Aruba-Red-Scooter-at-the-side-of-the-road

🚌 Using Public Transportation in Aruba

Is There Public Transportation in Aruba?

Yes. There are several forms of public transportation available in Aruba.

Depending on your budget and where you are headed, these can be some of the best and most budget-friendly options for getting around the island.

🚕 Are There Taxis in Aruba?

Yes, there are 🚕 taxis in Aruba.

Taxis are a common and convenient mode of transportation on the island, particularly for travellers who do not want to rent a car or drive themselves.

🚕 Are Taxis Expensive in Aruba?

Taxis in Aruba are pretty inexpensive.

And because there are 💵 fixed fares that are regulated by the government, you won’t have to worry about complicated charges or taxi scams.

That being said, we would still recommend that you ask what the fare is for your trip, before climbing into the vehicle. This will give you additional peace of mind, and prevent any unnecessary surprises.

🚕 Is it Easy to Find Taxis in Aruba?

Yes. It’s pretty easy to find a taxi in Aruba.

Taxis are a common and convenient mode of transportation on the island, and there are typically many taxis waiting at the ✈️ airport, hotels, and other popular destinations.

If you have cellular service, you can conveniently 📱 call a taxi yourself.

You can request the concierge or front desk agent at your hotel to call one for you. Additionally, many restaurants, bars, and cafes can call a taxi for you if you ask.

And if you’re out and about in a popular part of the island, you can just flag down a 🚕 taxi, as they are easily accessible in most of the places that tourists frequent.

However, we would recommend that if you need a taxi at a specific time, such as for a flight or a reservation, it’s a good idea to call ahead and book a taxi in advance.

🚕 Tip for Taking a Taxi in Aruba

Here are some important things to know about taking taxis in Aruba:

Taxis in Aruba only take cash (USD or Aruban Florin).
Taxis in Aruba are NOT metered. You need to ask the price before getting in the cab.
All taxi prices in Aruba are fixed and set by the government.
Expect to spend anywhere from $7-$50 on your taxi ride, depending on the distance.
Prices for taxis in Aruba are per car, not per person.
Taxis in Aruba take a maximum of 5 people (not including infants on laps).
Taxis charge extra for luggage ($2 per bag).
Late-night trips after 11 pm also cost extra ($3 fee).

🚌 Taking the Public Bus in Aruba

The main form of public transportation on the island is the bus.

Operated by 🚌 Arubus, these buses are modern and air-conditioned, and they operate on a set schedule along several routes throughout the island.

The bus routes connect popular tourist areas such as Oranjestad, Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and San Nicolas, as well as residential areas and other parts of the island.

The Arubus is an affordable transit option in Aruba. You can purchase Retour cards, cards for specific beaches, and all-day unlimited passes.

Retour cards are basically an out-and-back bus ticket to the location of your choice. These passes will run you about $5.00 USD.

However, if you are planning to hop on and off the bus all day on an epic Island adventure, then purchasing a day pass for $10 USD for unlimited rides would be more economical.

🚌 Bus line 10 runs through the main hotel area every 15 minutes from 5:45 am until 6 pm. After that, buses run every 40 minutes until 11:30 pm.

We took the Arubus on a couple of occasions and found it really easy. Even with two young kids with us, we felt quite safe with this budget-friendly option.

🚌 You can check the Arubus website for a detailed bus schedule.

So, while some parts of the island may not be well-served by the bus routes, taking the bus in Aruba can be a convenient option for budget-conscious travellers or those who prefer not to drive.

🚎 Taking the Trolly in Oranjestad

Although the trolley won’t take you all over the island, if you’re looking for a fun and unique way to get around Oranjestad, this is a great option.

The trolley is a free service that runs through the heart of Oranjestad, making stops at popular attractions like the Renaissance Marketplace, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum.

The trolley is open-air and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to wait in line during peak times.

In fact, the trolley is used mainly by 🚢 cruise passengers to get from the port to the downtown shopping area, so it can get crowded.

The trolley runs from 10 am to 5 pm, with a break from 10 pm to 1 pm. It runs at 25-minute intervals with the last trolley of the day departing from the cruise port at 5 pm.

🚶‍♀️ Is Aruba Walkable?

It depends. While Aruba is not completely walkable, it is possible to get around on foot in certain areas.

Aruba is a relatively small island, so if you’re staying in one of the major resort areas like Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, you can easily walk to nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions.

However, if you plan to explore other parts of the island like the Arikok National Park, you will need transportation.

Some areas of Aruba have sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, while others do not, which means walking in some areas can be challenging or even dangerous.

The warm and sunny weather can also make walking uncomfortable during the hottest parts of the day. Make sure you bring plenty of water to stay hydrated!

Aruba-with-Kids-toddler-walking-on-Aruba-beach

Is There Uber in Aruba – FAQs

Is it easy to get around Aruba without a car?

Unless you are planning to go off the beaten path, it is pretty easy to get around most of Aruba with public transportation.

Is there a hop-on hop-off bus in Aruba?

No, there is no hop-on hop-off bus in Aruba. The closest you will find is the trolley which operates in downtown Oranjestad.

Is it a good idea to rent a car in Aruba?

Renting a car in Aruba is generally a good idea as it provides flexibility, convenience, and cost savings.

Can you hire a taxi for a day in Aruba?

Yes, it is possible to hire a taxi for a day in Aruba, although it will be more expensive than renting a car for the day. The cost is approximately $50 USD per hour to rent a taxi.

Is there a taxi app in Aruba?

Yes, Aruba Taxi 4+ is a taxi app that can be used in Aruba.

Is it safe to rent scooters in Aruba?

Yes. It is very safe to rent a scooter in Aruba. Not only are the roads well maintained, but because you need a motorcycle licence to rent one, you should already have the skills to operate a scooter safely.

Do taxis in Aruba take US dollars?

Yes, taxis in Aruba accept US dollars, as the US dollar is widely used on the island. Taxis will also accept Aruban Florins.

Do taxis in Aruba take credit cards?

Only a very few taxis in Aruba accept credit cards, but it is always best to check with the driver beforehand to avoid any confusion or inconvenience. It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case the taxi you get into does not accept credit cards.

Is it safe to take a taxi in Aruba?

Yes, it is generally safe to take a taxi in Aruba. Taxis are regulated by the government and the drivers are required to have a valid license and follow certain safety protocols.

👉 Skipped to the bottom? There is no Uber in Aruba. But you can Book Your Aruba Airport Transportation Here.

Is There Uber in Aruba – Final Thoughts

So, is Uber available in Aruba?

While Uber is not currently available in Aruba, there are plenty of other transportation options to get you around the island.

Whether you choose to rent a car, take a taxi, hop on a bus, or join a guided tour, there is a mode of transportation to suit every budget and preference.

It’s important to do your research ahead of time and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.

And who knows, with the ever-evolving travel industry, Uber may eventually make its way to Aruba in the future.