Known as ‘One Happy Island’, Aruba has long been a top choice for international travelers seeking both relaxation and luxury.
As with any popular hotspot around the world, staying on top of safety is crucial. In this article, we look at Aruba’s security landscape from several angles so you can make informed decisions every step of your 2025 journey.
LATEST NEWS from Aruba:
December 2024: Recent drug seizures in Aruba raise concerns about tourist safety
Earlier this month, authorities moved in Aruba intercepted two boats with significant amounts of cocaine and marijuana near Conchi and Boca Moro, both popular tourist destinations in Arikok National Park.
Although Aruba is widely considered one of the safest Caribbean islands, this incident has raised concerns about the potential safety of isolated locations often visited by tourists seeking natural attractions.
In response to growing crime challenges, the Board of Chief Commissioners of the four police forces of the Caribbean Netherlands recently met to share strategies to tackle crime in Aruba and other Caribbean destinations.
Crime statistics in Aruba
Crime in Aruba has increased in recent years, but has not yet had a significant impact on tourism. By taking normal precautions, visitors can generally feel safe. Here are the latest crime statistics according to Numbeo.
| Level of crime | 24.15 | Low |
| Crime rates have been increasing since 2019 | 58.12 | Moderate |
| Worries about robberies or robberies | 24.17 | Low |
| Getting your car stolen | 24.77 | Low |
| Getting things stolen from your car | 36.97 | Low |
| Don’t worry about being attacked | 20.62 | Low |
| Worries about physical attacks because of your skin color, ethnicity, gender, or religion | 18.29 | Very low |
| Violent crimes such as armed robbery | 27.76 | Low |
Areas to avoid
Last year we had you visit tthe San Nicolas district, and unfortunately that recommendation still stands. Neighborhoods like it the same way Tanki Leendert and Paradera Safety concerns remain, so tourists may consider avoiding these areas, especially after dark.
Most crimes in these locations are related to prostitution and drug trafficking.
Official travel advice
US travel advice
As of August 19, 2024, the U.S. Department of State has a Level 1 Travel advice for Arubaadvising travelers to ‘take normal precautions’. This means that this Dutch island qualifies one of the safest destinations in the world for Americans.
Travel advice for Canada
Canada is also advising its citizens to “take normal safety precautions” when traveling to Aruba, indicating that the area is considered a safe destination for Canadians.
However, authorities advise travelers to remain alert to minor crimes such as pickpocketing and handbag theft in tourist areas.
Safety tips for Aruba
As mentioned, Aruba is a safe destination, but by following these tips you can ensure that your trip leaves only good memories.
- As with any destination in the world, it’s always wise to avoid remote beaches, unlit streets or less-visited areas after dark, especially if you’re traveling alone.
- Use rideshare platforms like Uber for local transportation instead of random taxis to minimize the risk of scams.
- Please keep your valuables in your accommodation and keep your passport in a safe place.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas.
- Avoid red light districts such as San Nicolas, especially after dark.
- Do not swim on beaches with a red flag.
- If you are an American, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to help the government locate you in an emergency.
