Netherlands Antilles-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Aruba

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
    • Exchange currency (Antillean Guilder, now the US Dollar is the official currency) and purchase a local SIM card for your phone
    • Visit the airport’s tourist information booth to get an overview of the island and plan your itinerary
  • Afternoon
    • Head to Eagle Beach (also known as Palm Beach), one of Aruba’s most famous beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the sun
    • Visit the nearby Butterfly Farm, a tropical garden home to hundreds of colorful butterflies from around the world
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at one of Oranjestad’s many restaurants, serving local and international cuisine
    • Explore the city’s shopping streets, featuring duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and local markets

Day 2: Discover Bonaire

  • Morning
    • Take a ferry from Aruba to Bonaire (approximately 30 minutes)
    • Visit the Washington Slagbaai National Park, a protected area covering about one-third of the island
    • Explore the park’s scenic hiking trails, beaches, and saltwater lakes
  • Afternoon
    • Dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Klein Bonaire (Little Bonaire), a small island off the coast of Bonaire
    • Visit the Bonaire Marine Park, which offers guided tours to spot sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at one of Bonaire’s restaurants, serving local seafood and international cuisine
    • Explore the city’s streets, featuring a mix of colonial architecture and modern buildings

Things to Know

  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken on both islands.
  • Currency: The US Dollar is now the official currency, although you may still see Antillean Guilders in circulation.
  • Weather: Aruba and Bonaire have a tropical savanna climate with two main seasons: dry (December to August) and wet (September to November).
  • Safety: Both islands are generally very safe for tourists.

Visa Requirements

  • No visa is required for tourism or business stays up to 30 days.
  • Nationals of countries not listed below may need a visa:
    • Brazil
    • China
    • India
    • Indonesia
    • Russia
    • South Africa

Transportation

  • Flights: Aruba and Bonaire are served by major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
  • Ferries: Regular ferry services connect Aruba to Bonaire (approximately 30 minutes).
  • Rental Cars: Available on both islands for exploring the surrounding areas.
  • Taxis: Widely available on both islands.

Other Tips

  • Sun Protection: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
  • Water Sports: Both islands offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or attending cultural events.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Aruba and Bonaire!