One of the most popular ways to get around Aruba is via taxi. They are readily available and able to take you to anywhere on the island. Before getting in, just be aware that all taxis in Aruba should have a TX located on their license plate. This is a sign that they are permitted by the government and will help keep you safe in regulated taxis.

With that important fact aside, let’s take a look at all you need to know about Aruba taxis!

Where to Find a Taxi in Aruba

Taxis are readily available and run 24 hours per day in Aruba. This includes at the airport, hotels, restaurants, and the cruise ship port. If you can’t find a taxi, you can also call and order one by phone or ask the hotel or restaurant you’re at to call one for you.

Be aware that taxi drivers will likely not allow you in the car if you are sandy or wet. This may factor in your ability to taxi to and from the beaches in Aruba.

Taxis from the Airport to Your Hotel

For many first time visitors, determining how to get from the airport to your hotel can be a bit stressful. Fortunately, you need not worry! Not only are taxis readily available at the airport, but the Aruba taxi service is one of the safest and fastest ways to get to your hotel.

In fact, taxis have to meet certain requirements, be registered, and pay an annual fee for the privilege of picking up passengers at the airport. They will then display their registered entry card to get into the Aruba airport taxi line.

If you walk out of the airport and anyone approaches you for a ride, walk past them to the official taxi line. Here you may encounter someone helping expedite the wait, but you don’t need to worry once you’re in line. All the taxis are registered and ready to take you anywhere on the island at their fixed rates!

Examples of the cost of taxis from the Aruba airport:

• From the airport to Oranjestad: $21

• From the airport to the low-rise hotel area (Eagle Beach Hotels): $26

• From the airport to the high-rise hotel area (Palm Beach Hotels): $31

These prices include a full taxi worth, up to five passengers, excluding kids under 2 years old. If you’re traveling on a Sunday, official holiday, or from 11:00pm to 7:00am, add $3 to the regular fare. Additionally, each passenger gets 1 piece of luggage and a personal item included in the fee. If you have more than that, an extra $2 per piece will be charged.

The full taxi fare chart* is also available in the airport for your convenience to ensure you don’t get overcharged.

If you’re still hesitant about taking a taxi from the Aruba airport, there are private shuttle services that you can prearrange to meet you at the airport. Check rates for the private shuttles here. You can also check out the shared shuttle bus for a more cost-effective option.

Taxi Fares in Aruba

Taxis in Aruba do not have meters and do not charge based on distance. Rather, the cost of taxis in Aruba is fixed by the Department of Public Transportation based on each destination around the island. That’s right, taxi fares are regulated meaning the cost will not vary taxi driver to taxi driver. This means you don’t need to shop around or negotiate the cost of your ride.

To know the cost of your journey up front, ask the taxi driver to see the chart and agree on the price before getting in. All prices are based on a per taxi rate, not per passenger. Each taxi can also take up to five people, with kids under two years of age not included in that count.

While Aruba taxi rates are fixed, there are a few special fees. For example, there is a $3 additional fee for taking taxis on Sundays, on official Aruban holidays, and from 11:00pm – 7:00am. There’s also an extra charge for luggage. These kick in if you have more than 1 piece of luggage and 1 personal item per person. In that case, a $2 charge per piece of luggage will be charged.

The minimum fare is $7. The exchange rate used in taxis is 1.80 AWG to $1 U.S. Dollar.

*Fare list is current for 2018 – 2024.

How to Pay Taxis in Aruba

Most Aruba taxis are cash only, accepting both U.S. Dollars and Aruba Florin (AWG). If you do not have cash, you can either have the taxi stop at an ATM on the island, or search around/call for a taxi that takes credit card. They are rare, but they do exist!

Tipping in Taxis in Aruba

If you have a pleasant experience with your taxi service in Aruba, plan to round up the fare or leave a small tip for the driver of around 10% of the fare. This is particularly important if the driver has provided extra assistance or valuable information for you.

That being said, some people choose not to tip in Aruba taxis, so drivers don’t expect a tip. Also, be aware that most taxis in Aruba do not accept credit card tips – even if you can pay by card. Always carry small denominations of U.S. Dollars or Aruba Florin for tips in Aruba.

Alternatives to Taxis in Aruba

While taxis are popular means of transportation in Aruba, there are a few other key choices you should know about.

• Rental Cars: Renting a car in Aruba is a popular option for those who want to explore the island at their own pace. It can also be a more cost-effective option versus getting around Aruba by taxi daily.

• Public Bus: There is a public bus system that serves many areas of the island. This is an inexpensive option to get around Aruba, but it may not be as flexible or convenient as taking taxis in Aruba.

• Uber in Aruba: Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, do not currently operate in Aruba.

• Private Shuttle Services from the Airport: Another popular way to get from the airport to your hotel in Aruba is through a private shuttle service. Check rates here.