Aruba 5 Day Itinerary

Aruba 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Relaxation

Morning

  • Arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your hotel
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up

Afternoon

  • Head to Palm Beach, one of Aruba’s most popular beaches
  • Soak up the sun, swim, and enjoy water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding
  • Grab lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants

Evening

  • Explore Oranjestad, the capital city of Aruba
  • Visit the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum to learn about the island’s history
  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some traditional Aruban cuisine like seafood or goat cheese

Day 2: Island Exploration

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Arikok National Park, covering 18% of the island
  • Explore the park’s rugged landscape, including Mt. Arikok and Guadirikiri Cave

Afternoon

  • Visit the California Lighthouse, offering stunning views of the island’s western coast
  • Stop by the Alto Vista Chapel, a historic church with beautiful views

Evening

  • Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant
  • Try your luck at one of Aruba’s many casinos, like the Hyatt Regency Casino

Day 3: Water Activities

Morning

  • Take a snorkeling or scuba diving trip to explore Aruba’s vibrant marine life
  • Visit Mangel Halto Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and sea turtles

Afternoon

  • Go on a glass-bottom boat tour to see the island’s coral reefs and marine life without getting wet
  • Relax at your hotel or explore Oranjestad’s shopping scene

Evening

  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at a fine dining restaurant, like The Flying Fishbone

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Morning

  • Visit the Butterfly Farm, home to hundreds of colorful butterflies
  • Explore the Aruba Aloe Factory, learning about the island’s famous aloe products

Afternoon

  • Attend a traditional Aruban dance show or take a dance lesson yourself
  • Visit the National Archaeological Museum to learn about the island’s indigenous people

Evening

  • Enjoy a festive dinner at a local restaurant, trying some traditional dishes like pastechi (stuffed cheese) or kabritu (stewed goat)

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring Oranjestad
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure flight

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of the United States, Canada, and many European countries do not need a visa to enter Aruba
  • Check with the Aruban Government’s website for specific requirements

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available at the airport and around the island
  • Renting a car is also an option, but be aware that driving in Aruba can be challenging due to narrow roads and aggressive drivers
  • Many hotels offer shuttle services or can arrange transportation for guests

Things to Know

  • Aruba is a small island, so distances are relatively short
  • The official languages are Dutch and Papiamento, but many locals speak English
  • The local currency is the Aruban florin (AWG), but US dollars are widely accepted
  • Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious seafood and local cuisine

Tips and Tricks

  • Book your hotel and tours in advance to avoid high season prices
  • Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothing for hot days
  • Bring a waterproof phone case or camera for water activities
  • Learn some basic Papiamento phrases to show respect for the local culture