curacao travel requirements 2023

Curaçao Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Curaçao

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to Curaçao from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Curaçao.

Can I travel to Curaçao if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Curaçao without restrictions.

Can I travel to Curaçao without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Curaçao without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Curaçao?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Curaçao.

Can I travel to Curaçao without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Curaçao?

Mask usage in Curaçao is not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Curaçao?

Restaurants in Curaçao are open. Bars in Curaçao are .

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Wild Junket

Curacao Travel Guide 2024: All You Need to Know

Last Updated on March 11, 2024

Planning to travel Curacao? Here is my detailed Curacao travel guide including travel requirements, cost of travel, and best places to visit.

Lying about 65km off the Venezuelan coast, Curacao is a small island that’s part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Yet, it’s unmistakably Caribbean with its vibrant colors, pristine beaches and rainforests studded with cacti and green iguanas.

Having spent two weeks in Curacao, I’ve compiled a Curacao travel guide for first-time travelers with recommendations on the best beaches to visit, best places to stay and eat. I hope you find this guide useful!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Curacao

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Curaçao International Airport (CUR) serves as the main gateway to Curaçao, You can fly direct to Curacao from the Netherlands and many parts of the US via KLM, TUI, American Airlines, and JetBlue.

You can get direct flights from Miami to Curacao (3hrs) from just US$360 return and from New York to Curacao (4.5 hrs) for the same price. We flew direct from Amsterdam to Curacao (10 hrs) for $570 (or €450) round trip.

Search for Flights to Curacao

Curacao (also known as Curaçao) may be in the Caribbean, but it is part of the Netherlands . It’s the biggest and most rugged of the three ABC islands — Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao.

Tracing back to its roots, Curaçao was first settled by Arawak people from South America. The first Europeans came in 1499 and the Spanish settled here, followed by the Dutch, who established it as a major centre of trade for the Dutch West India Company .

The dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010 saw Curacao become a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Today it’s a stable and fairly prosperous island, with banking and tourism both big industries.

Our outdoor-loving family absolutely loved Curacao and had a great time swimming off its sugary-sand beaches, hiking in the cacti-studded mountains, and snorkeling in the spearmint waters. Curacao makes for such an easy place to kick back, relax and enjoy the tropics. Plus it’s so easily accessible from the Netherlands, and many parts of the US.

However, Curacao is not cheap and it might not be suitable for solo travelers on a tight budget. You need a car to get around and prices are comparable to the US and Western Europe. For those looking for real adventure or an off-the-beaten-path experience, this is probably not for you either. We saw mostly families and couples traveling in Curacao.

Curacao is located way south in the Lesser Antilles just 40 miles off the Venezuelan coast, which means it is safely outside of the hurricane belt. Curaçao tends to be sunny even during the months that other  Caribbean islands experience torrential rains.

If you’ve come to dive or snorkel, you’ll enjoy good visibility throughout the year. Because the island is located outside the hurricane belt, its marine life is unaffected by seasonal changes.

Even though it’s great to visit all year around, the best time to visit Curaçao is from May to November , during the off-peak season. During these months, you’ll find the lowest airfares and room rates.

At just 171 square miles, Curacao is a relatively small island that’s home to 150,000 people. It takes just 50 minutes to drive from one end to the other. In other words, you don’t need a lot of time to travel Curacao.

We spent two weeks in Curacao and felt like we got to explore it thoroughly and visit every single spot we wanted to. By the end of the trip, we got to know Curacao so well that we felt like we were living on the island. If you’re limited on time, I recommend spending 1 week in Curacao to enjoy it at a relaxing pace.

How to Travel Around Curacao

The best way to get around Curacao is definitely by car rental, as public transport is few and far between. If you’re staying in Willemstad, you can generally walk everywhere. But rent a car when you want to explore outside of Willemstad.

We booked our car on Discover Cars before our trip. They’ve consistently given us the best prices and service. Car rentals in Curacao are affordable, at around US$25-30 per day. We spent around $400 for our 2-week car rental.

If you don’t drive, it’s still possible to take the local buses or small vans (similar to colectivos in Latin America) though it’ll take ages to get anywhere. An alternative is to base yourself in Willemstad and go on day tours from there. Here are some good options for day tours:

• National Treasures of Curacao Jeep Tour
• Tugboat Snorkeling Trip
• Curacao Sunset Yacht Tour
• Shete Boka National Park Jeep Tour
• Speedboat and Snorkel Adventure

Where to Stay in Curacao

The best beaches in Curacao are concentrated along the northwestern coast of the island, but that is also the most rural and rugged part of Curacao and accommodation is limited in the area.

I recommend staying in the capital city, Willemstad, where there are plenty of well-priced hotels and restaurants. The western tip is just a 30-45 minute drive away and you’ve got all the coolest cultural spots and restaurants at your doorstep. Alternatively, Jan Thiel is another great residential area within easy access from Willemstad.

We stayed at this spacious Airbnb located in Jan Thiel and found it suitable for families like ours. Only some of the apartments are renovated though — definitely ask for the ones by the pool. Check rates here.

A small, intimate boutique hotel converted from a historical plantation estate, located in the west near the best beaches in Curacao. Check rates here.

Located in Pietermaai overlooking the sea, Scuba Lodge is a stylish boutique hotel and iconic landmark in Curacao. It’s housed in one of the pastel-colored Dutch colonial buildings in Pietermaai. Our 2-bedroom apartment was huge and stylishly decorated, with sweeping views of the sea. My review will be up soon! Check rates here.

Another hotel with a great location in Willemstad, this resort has two private beaches and modern five-star hotel facilities. It’s one of the oldest historic hotels in Curacao, but all rooms have been renovated and given a fresh new look. Wait for my review. Check room rates.

Curacao has some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen. But beyond the beaches, there are also quite a lot of things to do in Curacao in terms of art walks, museum visits, and jungle hikes. Here’s a summary of the best things to do — for the full list, check out my detailed article below.

The capital city of Willemstad is perhaps the most fascinating town in the Caribbean (in our opinion). Its rich history is evident in every corner of the old town, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The heart of the city lies at  Handelskade , a picturesque stretch of pier you’ve seen on every Curaçao postcard. 17th-century colonial Dutch buildings painted in pastel colors line the waters of St. Anna Bay. Grab a seat at  Iguana Cafe  and watch the  Queen Emma Bridge  swing open to let ships into the harbor.

From there, cross from Punda to  Kura Huland Village  and admire the beautiful architecture left behind by the Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch. Wander down the narrow cobblestoned alleys tucked behind  Breedestraat , have a local lunch at the  Plasa Bieu market , then snap a signature photo at the Wilhelminaplein’s giant Curaçao sign.

Willemstad is divided into several districts, with many of the city’s most tastefully restored buildings concentrated in Pietermaai. A  full-scale revitalization effort began in 1999, and now almost all of the historic buildings have been converted into boutique hotels, restaurants, galleries and bars in this district.

From Wilhelminaplein, continue walking along Pietermaai street and you’ll start seeing buildings splashed in turquoise, pink and purple. The most photogenic ones are  Scuba Lodge ,  BijBlauw ,  Ginger and the purple/orange houses at the end of Nieuwestraat.

The best beaches in Curacao lie along the northwest coast. Grote Knip  is lauded by many (including myself!) as the  best beach on Curacao. Before going down to the water’s edge, be sure to stop at the cliffs by the entrance to admire this postcard-perfect Caribbean image.

Just a 10-minute drive from Grote Knip is the  Playa Piskado (or Kenepa Grandi), famous for the turtles that live in the area.  You are almost guaranteed to see them as they feed off the scrapes that fishermen leave in the sea. The turtles are used to human beings and aren’t afraid to get close!

Playa Porto Mari is most famous for the two feral pigs that hang around here: Willy and Woody. They’re often hanging out at the beach, sniffing at your food and snooping in people’s bags. If you’re lucky, you might even see them swimming! When we were there, they were lounging in the mud and snoozing away.

Sprawling across 2300 hectares in west Curacao,  Christoffel Park  is the largest national park on the island. This is where you go to immerse in the lush greenery of Curacao and see unique species like the giant columnar cacti (kadushi), white-tailed deer and green iguana.

One of the absolute best things to do in Curacao is to climb the Christoffel Mountain. It takes an hour to reach the peak, just 375m above sea level. It is  not allowed to start your climb after 10 am  (as it gets too hot). The hike is gorgeous and rather easy — even our 5-year-old could do it with no difficulties. If you don’t drive, you can still visit on a  jeep tour leaving from Willemstad .  Entry: 30 ANG (US$17) per person.

While driving from the west back to Willemstad, you’ll pass through the salt lakes of Jan Kok where hundreds (sometimes thousands) of flamingos like to converge. There’s an observation deck on the edge of the salt pans where you can go to see a nice view of the flamingos without traipsing on the mud.

Curacao is an excellent place to visit with kids. It’s safe, and it has great infrastructure (besides the pot-holed roads) and plenty of nature to explore with little ones. Go hiking in Christoffel Park, see flamingos feeding on the salt lakes and visit the beaches on the west coast (most of calm and shallow).

You might not find quite as many mega attractions here as in other Caribbean islands like in Jamaica or Dominican Republic , but that’s exactly what I love about Curacao. It’s got a distinctive character and authenticity, which are evident from the colorful architecture and museums in Willemstad.

Some of the few places we recommend visiting with kids are the Curacao Children’s Museum , Curacao Sea Aquarium (outdated by staff have a strong passion for the animals) and   Amazonia , a lush rainforest garden with colorful birds and cool reptiles from the Amazon.

Curacao’s vibrant culinary culture comes as no surprise, considering the island’s history. Typical dishes like Karni Stoba (stewed meat) show evidence of their Caribbean identity and Portuguese, Spanish and Dutch influences. Curacao locals have really created something special with the fusion of Caribbean ingredients and European flavors. Here are some of the most quintessential Dutch Caribbean dishes worth trying!

• Keshi yena — A signature dish of Curacao: a round ball of cheese, usually Edam or Gouda, stuffed with spiced chicken/pork and then baked until perfection. 
• Karni stoba — This ubiquitous dish is a hearty stew made usually with goat meat and sometimes papaya.
• Funchi — This popular side-dish is basically cornmeal, a reminder of the African roots in Curaçao. The consistency resembles polenta, and it’s usually served fried (similar to fries).
• Arepa — A traditional Venezuelan dish, these puffy corn-based patties are hugely popular here. Curaçao has their own unique interpretation of this dish.
• Awa di Lamunchi — A refreshing Antillean drink made with freshly squeezed lime juice, sugar and water.
• Blue Curacao — A local liqueur prepared with the dried peel of the bitter orange laraha, a citrus fruit grown in Curacao.

There’s no shortage of great Creole restaurants and oceanfront seafood spots on Curacao. I was really surprised by the vibrant culinary scene as you’ll find plenty of traditional local seafood spots and trendy gourmet restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat in Curacao:

• De Visserij — My absolute favorite place to eat in Curacao! It’s a simple, casual spot in Piscadera that serves the freshest, juiciest shrimps I’ve ever had. We waited in line for 15 mins to get in, but it was easy to see why this place is such a big hit among locals.
• Plasa Bieu Market —Definitely the cheapest place to try local Curacao dishes like Karni Stoba. It has been renovated recently, which in my opinion has taken away its authenticity.
• Brisa do Mar — An excellent seafront restaurant in Caracasbaai, great spot to try local dishes and have a Blue Curacao cocktail while watching sunset (pictured right).
• Seaside Terrace — A casual beach shack and locals’ favorite hangout, near Mambo Beach. We liked the red snapper and shrimps!
• Rozendaels — A fixture in the Curacao restaurant scene, it serves fusion Caribbean dishes in an atmospheric garden setting in Pietermaai.
• Restaurant & Café Gouverneur De Rouville — Housed in a beautiful colonial building overlooking Handelskade, this landmark restaurant has a beautiful patio and romantic ambiance. One of the best places in Willemstad!
• Jaanchies Restaurant — A local legend of some sorts, with an ultra-friendly owner and iguana on the menu in Westpunt. Get a table by the garden and observe the chirpy birds.

In general, Curacao is an expensive place to visit. It is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands after all, and one of the wealthiest islands in the Caribbean. Living standards and prices are naturally high. We’ve found the prices similar to Amsterdam, where we live.

NOTE: Most beaches in Curacao are not public beaches i.e. there’s a fee to pay to visit each beach so these costs add up. Most charge around 6 ANG (US$3) for entrance and another 5-10 ANG ($2.5-5) for renting a beach bench.

• Accommodation — An Airbnb (pictured) costs minimum of US$70 per night, while a more upscale beachfront hotel can go for $200-400 per room.
• Food — A restaurant meal in Curacao generally costs around 40-60 ANG ($20-30) per person. Cocktails are expensive, around 15-30 ANG ($8-15). The cheaper options are food trucks (which locals are obsessed about) and arepa stands that offer meals for 10-20 ANG ($5-10).
• Supermarket — Grocery prices in Curacao are rather expensive, as they import a lot of food from the Netherlands (only fresh fruit and local produce are cheap). A pack of spaghetti costs 3 ANG ($1.50), a 1.5L bottle of water is around 3 ANG ($1.50), and a pack of fresh chicken fillet is 5 ANG ($2.50).

While it is expensive to travel Curacao, there are some ways to lower your expenses and explore on a budget. Here are some tips:

• Go to public beaches — Most beaches in Curacao are private beaches i.e. you need to pay a fee to visit each beach. Public beaches are free to visit, but there are very few and they aren’t the best beaches in Curacao. Check out Playa Forti and  Playa Marie Pampoen (next to Mambo Beach).
• Eat at food trucks — Locals are obsessed with food trucks, or truk’i pan, that usually serve barbecue dishes with fries or bread in the evening. Award-winning BBQ Express is said to be the best food truck (and we agree)! Get there just before 6pm to avoid the lines.
• Stay in apartments — Apartments and Airbnbs are generally cheaper than hotels in Curacao. The cheapest areas to stay in are Willemstad and Jan Thiel. You can book an apartment with fully-equipped kitchen and swimming pool for around US$70/night.
• Cook your own meals — Shop at local supermarkets and cook instead of eating out for every meal. We made breakfast and lunch everyday and ate out for dinner. Mangusa Hypermarket is the best in town, in terms of variety and prices. Sambil mall has a Carrefour but it’s not cheap.
• Bring your gear — Pack your snorkeling mask, beach shoes, fins, sunscreen and mosquito repellant, to avoid having to buy them in Curacao.

For digital nomads who plan to work remotely in Curacao, you’ll be thrilled to know the internet speed is quite high. Most residential connections can connect at 16 Mbps , but you can go up to 26 Mbps. Free WiFi is available in many restaurants, public spaces and museums.

We worked remotely while traveling in Curacao and only lost connection for 2 hours at an Airbnb that we stayed. There was also a coworking space across the street from us, though we didn’t try it (simply worked in our apartment).

You can also easily get a SIM card. The two main telecommunications operators are Digicel and UTS (Chippie) . There is a Chippie kiosk at the airport’s baggage claim area — a SIM with 2GB of data costs US$30.

Because of their history, most people in Curacao speak at least four languages: Papiamentu, Dutch, Spanish and English . I was so impressed that everyone we met on the island was multilingual. We definitely did not encounter any issues communicating with people.

Papiamentu is the local Creole language (spoken in the Dutch Caribbean islands) that’s a fascinating mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and African dialects. It has a large percentage of Spanish words and is quite easy to understand if you speak Spanish like we do. Here are some common words you’ll hear often:

• Bon bini! — Welcome!
• Dushi — Sweetheart (their favorite word)
• Bon dia! — Good morning!
• Danki! — Thank you!
• Con ta bai? — How are you?

Curacao is such a naturally stunning island, plus there are so many  things to do in Curacao you’ll be spoiled for choice. Have a dushi time traveling in Curacao! Let me know if you have any questions in the comments field below.

Here are more articles on Curacao travel to help you plan your trip:

• 24 Fun Things to Do in Curacao
• Best Beaches in Curacao
• Staying at the Avila Beach Hotel in Curacao
• Staying at Scuba Lodge, Curacao

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Hi and thank you for a great travel guide to Curaçao. We are going there next week and are planning to rent a car. How was parking options in Willemstad? We live close to Queen Emma Bridge. And any supermarkets you will recommend?

hi Cassandra, it’s easy to park in Willemstad. We found lots of parking especially around the big DUSHI sign by the Cathedral. There were lots of supermarkets near where we stayed, outside of Willemstad, but if you’re staying near Queen Emma Bridge, it might be best to go to the local market where fresh fruit come from Venezuela are sold.

Do you know if you can go horseback riding tours in Curacao?

hi Tracey, yes there are three horseriding schools in Curacao, and several horseriding tours. Check out this one.

Joss Miller

What a great overview, thank you! What about a getaway over Christmas- do you see any drawbacks during this time of year? Do you have knowledge of how well set up the Air B&Bs are? Would you say the boat excursions meet safety requirements?

hi Joss, Christmas is probably peak travel season in Curacao so if you don’t like crowds it’s not the best time to go. That said, what we like about Curacao is that it’s so easy to find empty beaches and so many of the places we visited were quiet and empty. The Airbnbs we stayed at weren’t the best – you’d usually need a car to get to. I would recommend staying at hotels as they’re better designed for tourists. As for boat excursions, they’re fantastic. Curacao is rather developed for a Caribbean island.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Curaçao travel advice

Latest updates: Health - editorial update

Last updated: May 6, 2024 11:11 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, curaçao - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Curaçao

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs in Curaçao.   

Residential break-ins and theft from vehicles, hotel rooms and rental units also take place.

Crime typically increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival, which takes place from January to March. 

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Never leave valuables such as jewellery, cell phones, electronics, wallets or bags unattended on the beach or in your vehicle

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as homicide, armed robbery, home invasion and sexual assault, occurs although the number of incidents remains low.

• Avoid unpopulated areas or unpatrolled beaches after dark
• Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe
• Stay in accommodations with good security, and keep your doors and windows locked

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

If you are planning to take part in water sports such as scuba diving, jetskiing or parasailing:

• ensure that equipment is safe and in good condition
• ensure helmets and life jackets are available
• avoid participating in any water activities when you are under the influence of alcohol or other substances
• check that your travel insurance covers accidents related to recreational activities

Water safety abroad

Wildlife viewing

Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly on foot or at close range.

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

Road safety

Major roads are in good condition, but many drivers don’t respect traffic laws. 

Animals on the road pose a hazard.

Road signs are different from Canada. Familiarize yourself with the signs before driving.

Public transportation

Minibuses run frequently throughout the day, though they have no fixed schedule. Each minibus has a specific route, which is displayed in its front windshield.

Limited government-run buses operate on fixed routes, generally running on the hour throughout the day.

Taxis in Curaçao must be registered. They are discernable by the “TX” marking on the license plate.

They are not metered. Drivers may have rate sheets available for different destinations. Agree on a fare prior to departure.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Dutch authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you expect to leave Curaçao.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days Business visa: not required Work permit: required Student visa: required

Other requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

You must have a completely filled-in and signed Embarkation and Disembarkation card (ED-card) to enter Curaçao. It can be completed online, upon booking your travel.

• ED-card Curaçao
• More about entry requirements  - The Netherlands and you

Children and travel

Curaçao has strict requirements for the entry and exit of persons under the age of 18, including special documentation.

Children entering Curaçao must present:

• birth certificate, identity documents, as well as travel documents
• identity document(s) of the parent(s) or guardian, having authority to give consent to travel
• documents proving who is the legal representative of the traveling minor
• fully completed consent form, signed by the parent(s) travelling, designating the accompanying adult during the stay
• Consent Form – Government of Curaçao
• Foreign minors traveling - Government of Curaçao
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Medical care is generally good but may be limited in availability.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Medical facilities may require immediate cash payment for medical treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail time. 

The island is used as a drug trafficking hub between South and North America. Carry only your personal belongings, and don’t leave them unattended. Don’t agree to carry packages that are not your own.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in the Netherlands, with some exceptions.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of the Netherlands, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

• More about dual nationality  - Government of the Netherlands
• General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Curaçao.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Curaçao, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Curaçaoan court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Curaçao to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

Curaçao is a country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

By Dutch law, you must always carry identification. You should have a copy of your passport with you at all times.

It is strictly prohibited to remove and attempt to leave the island with pieces of coral or conch seashells.

Investments

If you are interested in purchasing property or making other investments in Curaçao, seek legal advice from professionals in Canada and in Curaçao before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

Buy insurance when renting motorboats, jet skis and vehicles. Ensure that you obtain detailed information, in writing, regarding personal liability.

Turning right on red lights is prohibited.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG).  However, US dollars are widely accepted.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Seismic activity

Curaçao is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes can occur.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 911
• ambulance: 912
• firefighters: 911
• coastguard: 913

Consular assistance

Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao

Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Venezuela

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Colombia, in Bogotá, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Curacao Island Travel Guide 2024: What You Need to Know

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links, which at no cost to you I may earn a small commission.

Curacao Island Guide

Bon Bini! Welcome to your ultimate Curacao Island Travel Guide covering everything you need to know about visiting the sunny island of Curacao.

How do you even pronounce Curaçao? It’s Kur-uh-sow.

I wasn’t too sure what I was going to expect when visiting Curacao. But after my visit, Curacao exceeded my expectations, and it’s become one of my favorite islands in the Caribbean.

The island is located outside of the hurricane belt weather making the island warm and sunny with little precipitation year-round. The people on the island are so kind, and since Curacao is an autonomous country within the Dutch Kingdom, you really get that European flair  within the island. Plus, I could not get over the gorgeous untouched beaches either with incredible snorkeling and diving.

Curacao is a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers: families, couples, girls trips , group trips, and more with different kinds of activities, beaches, and things to do. Let’s get into the Curacao Island Guide.

Related:   12 Best Curacao Beaches You Can’t Miss

Let’s Connect on Social:   Instagram |    Facebook   |    Pinterest |    TikTok

Where is Curacao?

Curacao is located in the southern Caribbean Sea and is located between the islands of Aruba and Bonaire, and is 40 miles north of Venezuela. All three of these islands make up the ABC Islands : Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

You can find direct flights from the USA, or have a connection to reach Curacao.

Curacao’s location is outside of the storm belt , so you’ll find a sunny and driest climate with less rainfall all year round. You’ll notice desert-like vegetation on the island. Cacti thrive here and they even have cactus soup to try when you’re here)

When to Visit Curacao?

There isn’t a bad time to visit Curacao, for the sunny weather, but you run the risk of some light rain in the months of October-December. However, considering the other Caribbean Islands the total rainfall is much less.

The months with the least rainfall are from February to June averaging one inch per month.

And note, hang on to your hat! Curacao is a windy destination with trade winds that will cool you off at the beach.

Where to Stay in Curacao

Depending on the type of trip you are looking for, certain neighborhoods can be a better fit for your needs.

Pietermaai is a trendy neighborhood with plenty of bars, restaurants, and small boutique hotels lining the street. This area at night is super fun and great for couples, friends, and group trips. Hotels include Scuba Lodge , Bij Blauw, Avila Beach Hotel .

Blue Bay is a great location for families and couples. Blue Bay has residences, small boutique Hotels, and Villas that create this private resort-like feeling with a gorgeous soft sand beach where children can play in the sand easily. Hotels include Bayside Boutique Hotel ,

Jan Thiel & Mambo Beach are fun upbeat neighborhoods located south of Willemstad. Jan Thiel has a popular beachfront restaurant and bar where young adults and locals enjoy the sun and party at night. Hotel in Jan Thiel: Papagayo Beach Resort and Mambo Beach Hotel: Lion’s Dive Resort .

Curacao Resorts

If you’re looking for a relaxed resort feel check out these options:

• Dreams Curacao:   All-Inclusive beachfront property with 7 food and beverage outlets, beachfront, infinity pool, and modern rooms.
• Renaissance Hotel Curacao: Recently renovated and located steps from Queen Emma Bridge in Willemstad. Rooms have ocean views and an impressive infinity salt lake lagoon.
• Avila Beach Hotel : Centrally located in Pietermaai and is a beachfront property.
• Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort: The newest 5-star all-inclusive resort on Curacao island situated on a private beach. The finishes are modern and spacious great for families, couples, and groups.

How to get around Curacao Island

Depending on your itinerary and where you are staying there are a few ways you can get around Curacao Island: renting a car , taxi , or bus.  

Rent a Car: If you plan on visiting one of the many Curacao Beaches , it is best to rent a car for those days. Taking a taxi from your hotel to a beach one way will cost more than your car rental for the day.

You can find car rental stations at the airport, and some rental companies have desks at larger hotels.

From personal experience, it is best to rent a car so you can see and explore more throughout your stay. The roads are modern, and easy to navigate, and each beach & activity has clear signs so you won’t get lost!

Taxi:  Taxi rides are available and can be spotted by a sign on the roof and the letters TX on the license plate. If your trip is not metered, be sure to settle on a price before your ride.

Bus: You can also use the local Mini-Bus to reach the beaches. You can find them with the word ‘BUS’ on the license plate. These busses run all over the island and the fares range from $0.50-$2.00, however, there is no fixed schedule.

Just to note, Curacao is a smaller island that runs only 40 miles long and 10 miles wide. You will never be to far to do any activity, and you can see the entire island well with just 3 days!

Things to do in Curacao

Visit curacao beaches.

The beaches in Curacao blew me away ! Unlike Curacao’s neighbor Aruba where there is one long beach, Curacao has around 40 beaches and each has its character and is protected by cliffs and coves.

Curacao beaches have excellent snorkeling and diving spots for amazing sea life. I spotted sea turtles at Playa Piskado. Because there are so many incredible beaches, my Best Curacao Beaches post has more details on which beaches you can’t miss. Here are some of my favorites:

• Cas Abao:  Cas Abao has a large stretch of white sand that leads to crystal clear waters. This beach is great for all swimmers, and there is a bar, restaurant, showers, massage, and dive shop on site. (P.S. The mango smoothie here will cool you off and is delicious)
• Playa Kenepa:  Playa Kenepa is Curacao’s largest beach and has a natural relaxed feel. This is one of the most popular amongst the locals and on weekends, Playa Kenepa gets very busy, open with snack trucks. Also, there is free admission.
• Playa Porto Marie:  Playa Porto Marie is another large relaxed beach with soft sand and clear waters. What makes this one unique are the wild pigs that roam the beach in the late afternoon around 5/6 PM.

Willemstad Walking Tour

A must when in Curacao is touring the capital neighborhood of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can wander on your own to find shopping, unique buildings, restaurants, markets, and more or you can use a hired guide. When touring Willemsted here are some sights you can’t miss in the Punda district:

• Queen Emma Floating Bridge:  This walking bridge, originally built in 1888 connects Willemstad to the Otrobanda neighborhood and frequently swings open to allow boats to pass by! If you need to get to the other side while the bridge is open, you can take a free ferry to the other side.
• Lunch at Old Market: (Plasa Bieu) Here you can sample local delicacies at local prices. Dishes are served with rice and beans, polenta, or mashed potatoes. Favorite staples include Cactus Soup, stewed salted pork tails, salted mackerel, and iguana soup.
• Street Art: You’ll notice colorful local street art surrounding the neighborhood.
• Shopping: You’ll find local shops and international brands along the streets here. And be sure not to miss Penha Perfumery near the Queen Emma Bridge. This is the most photographed building and is a great example of Dutch colonial architecture.

Mixology Tour at the Landhuis Chobolobo

Ever seen the iconic Blue Curacao Liquor bottle? It’s made right in Curacao and you can take an immersive tour to learn how the liquor came to be and learn about the distillation process with trained guides.

You get the opportunity to taste each flavor: Chocolate, Coffee, Rum Rasin, Tamarind, and after the tour, you get to create your very own cocktail with any kind of Curacao Liqueur. I made a Curacao Liqueur mojito and kept the recipe to make at home.

Sunset Boat Tour

Cruise along the Curacao coastline into the Spanish Waters all along to downtown Willamsted to enjoy the sunset and the view. Pelican Express tours offer a 2-hour cruise, with light bites and complimentary beer and wine.

Dinah’s Herb Garden

A unique thing to do in Curacao is visit Dinah Veeris, the ‘herb lady’ in Curacao. You can visit her extensive botanical herb garden, Den Paradera , to learn about the healing power of plants. She has a cure for nearly every ailment!

You can take a wander around yourself or take a guided tour, and browse the shop!

Open: Monday-Saturday (Closed Sundays) 9 AM – 6 PM

Tours: Monday-Friday 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM Guided Price: $9 Adults, $5 Children

To see how windy Curacao really is, check out Shete Boka located on the Western part of the island. You can hear the incredible waves from the loud echoes. Plus you can enter a small cave to see the waves up close.

Open: Everyday 9 AM- 4 PM

Price: $6 per car

Where to Eat on Curacao Island

Curacao has a variety of cuisines and options range from Asian-Caribbean to Spanish, Italian, Chinese, and Dutch. Because Willamsted is a major shipping hub you can find imports from Europe, North, and South America.

You have endless options for quick casual bites or an elegant night out.

• BijBlauw: (above) Bijblauw is located waterfront in a gorgeous open-aired setting (reminding me a lot of Greece) They serve both Caribbean and European Cuisine, and the food was just as great as the scenery!
• Cana Bar & Kitchen: Known for its great cocktails and excellent food, Cana Bar & Kitchen is a must when in Curacao. 

• Zanzibar Beach Restaurant: (above) Located on the Beach at Jan Thiel, you can find a mix of casual bites from sandwiches. burgers, and salads, open from 12 PM-12 AM.

• BBQ Express: $ Trying a Truk’i pan is a must when in Curacao. You’ll find plenty of these food trucks all over Curacao. Locals and visitors alike love the laid-back vibe and great food for a low price.

At BBQ Express you’ll find meats served with fries with a variety of sauces to choose from. The real star is the one-of-a-kind pindasaus, a spicy Dutch-Indonesian peanut dip.

To try local flavor be sure to stop in the food markets in Willemstad, a snack bar along the road, and of course a late-night Truk’i pan . If you like trying authentic Food and local delicacies here are some items to check out:

• Stews: Karni stobá (beef) Kabritu Stoba (goat)
• Kadushi (Cactus Soup)
• Iguana Soup
• Pastechis (savory pastries)
• Sate Ku Batata (chicken skewer and fries)

Curacao Island Shopping

You can find plenty of local shops in Willemstad and the Mambo Beach shops. Boutiques sell a variety of items including swimwear, clothing, bohemian home decor, and jewelry.

• Seeya Collection: Located at Mambo Beach, this boho shop sells cute clothing, jewelry, home decor, and more!
• Renaissance Rif Fort & Mall: Here you can find plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants located in Historic Fort from 1828.

What to pack for Curacao

Curacao is a warm and windy destination so it’s best to pack lightweight casual items.

• Water Shoes : If you plan on doing snorkeling and swimming it is important to pack water shoes as many of the beaches have rocks when you first enter the waters
• Bug Spray : At night the mosquitoes come out!
• Sunscreen: Being one of the warmest & sunniest Caribbean Islands, Sunscreen is a must. Choose a reef-friendly sunscreen that protects sea life by avoiding chemical-based sunscreens. Safe options include  P40 & Badger .
• Wireless Phone Charger: If you plan on having a full beach day, be sure to pack a portable charger for your devices.

Things to Know about Curacao

Curacao Language: 4 languages widely spoken: Papiamentu, English, Dutch, and Spanish. Some useful words to know are:

• Bon Dia: Good Morning
• Bon Biní: Welcome
• Danki: Thank you
• Ayó: Good-Bye

Curacao Currency: The Netherlands-Antillean Guilder (Nafl or ANG) US $1 = 1.80 Nafl.

Outlets : Hotels offer both American outlets, as well as European Outlets, but to be on the safe side, I would call your hotel to confirm.

Drinking Water : The tap water on the island is safe to drink. It’s one of the finest quality with a Curacao Distillery right on the island.

Curacao Weather : Curacao is a very sunny destination year-round with little precipitation and an average temperature of 86F. You’ll notice plenty of dry Cacti thrive in this climate.

Related:   12 Best Curacao Beaches You Can’t Miss What to Pack for a Caribbean Vacation | Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

Hope you enjoyed this Curacao Island Travel Guide. Leave any questions down below:

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Dana Berez is a fashion and travel blogger with a focus on affordable style and outfit ideas, especially when traveling. Dana Berez has been featured on the Wall Street Journal, CNN Underscored, Apartment Therapy and more! Plus , you can also watch Dana on Youtube for fashion hauls and travel guides that has over 9 million views.

Can you bring home beach glass or pottery?

Hi, my wife and me just returned from Curacao. We spent 10 days there. A beautiful island. We stayed at Zoetry. We did a lot in a short period of time. We even took public transportation. I took notes of everything we did each day so I am happy to share my experiences with you. We are thinking of going to Columbia next. Any suggestions on Columbia.

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Curaçao Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Curaçao.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Curaçao.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Curaçao.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Curaçao is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Curaçao, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Curaçao. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Curaçao include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Curaçao’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Curaçao may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Curaçao, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Curaçao for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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