The CDC has added Aruba to its high-risk-level list. However, the on-the-ground situation is not as bad as it sounds. As of December 23, the Caribbean island only had 460 active cases in total.
Aruba is open to visitors, except for seven nations in southern Africa. All incomers have to present a negative molecular COVID-19 test before travel no older than 72 hours. Passengers traveling from very high-risk countries have to get tested no more than one day before travel. Eligible travelers may provide proof of vaccination.
The ones who don’t comply with the entry measures will undergo the test at the airport immediately after arrival, followed by a mandatory quarantine at their accommodation until they can produce negative results.
All foreigners traveling to Aruba will also have to purchase Aruba Visitors Insurance. It covers any incurred medical and non-medical expenses related to COVID-19.
Stats & current COVID-19 situation in Aruba
As of December 23, Aruba has reported 17,165 positive cases of coronavirus and 181 deaths caused by the virus.
Is it safe to travel to Aruba? – Latest Updates
December 24 – Royal Carribean cruise ship denied entry to Aruba after 55 passengers and crew members tested positive for COVID-19
A Royal Caribbean Cruise ship Odyssey of the Seas was denied entry to Curacao and Aruba, two of only three stops of its travel itinerary, after 55 fully vaccinated passengers and crew members tested positive for coronavirus.
Therefore, some 5,500 passengers on board are spending Christmas Day at sea with reduced activities and entertainment to prevent the further spread of the virus.
The cruise ship should return to Fort Lauderdale, FL, on December 26.
Source: Daily Mail
November 15 – Aruba’s new partnership to make entry requirements easier
Aruba’s new partnership with OK2Roam and VFS Global will enable incoming visitors to enter the country without the need to present or upload a PCR test certificate.
Instead, if they take the test at one of the government-approved laboratories provided by VFS Global, the data will be automatically sent to Aruba’s online ED entry platform. And therefore, arriving passengers will be able to skip the line at the airport where the necessary documents are checked and enjoy their holiday sooner.
It’s not yet sure when the new changes will come into effect. However, the Minister of Tourism and Public Health, Danguillaume Oduber, hopes that it will generally attract more visitors.
Source: TravelPulse
Vaccination progress in Aruba
Why travel to Aruba during COVID?
First and foremost, Aruba is open to nearly all foreign nationals. Also, it has only a few entry measures – a negative test and the Aruba Visitors Insurance. If you comply with these, you’re all set to enjoy all the delights of the Caribbean.
Aruba offers everything from white-sand beaches and turquoise waters to culinary experiences and natural wonders. Here are the top 3 things you shall not miss when in Aruba.
1. Diving
Aruba boasts many outstanding coral reefs, marine life, as well as wreck diving sites. Some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots are set around Malmock Beach and Boca Catalina.
2. Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of the island and is also Aruba’s largest natural place. It features rugged terrain, Indian rock drawings, and diverse fauna and flora, including the unique turtle nesting sites.
3. De Palm Island
Located just a 5-minute ferry ride from the mainland, De Palm Island is a perfect spot for some family fun. It offers a small beach, a water park, and several water-based activities such as banana rides or snorkeling tours. It’s also home to a flock of elegant flamingos!
If you’re looking to visit the Caribbean this year, Aruba it is. However, we recommend you be vaccinated before traveling.
Updates archives
September 24 – Aruba easing down safety restrictions; daily new COVID-19 cases decreasing
On September 1, the Aruba government announced it would ease down some of the safety measures which had been implemented on August 22.
From September 2. there is no longer an overnight curfew. Also, all establishments can stay open until midnight. Hotel facilities are excluded from this requirement and can operate during their regular hours.
Capacity limits at restaurants, bars, rum shops, and nightclubs remain the same. Whereas group gatherings and parties are now allowed at private homes with a maximum of 90 people.
In the meantime, the number of new coronavirus infections has been decreasing. As of today, September 25, there were only around 24 new COVID-19 cases daily, compared to 35 two weeks ago, on September 11.
Source: Visit Aruba
August 22 – Aruba to implement further safety measures
To maintain the health and safety of both visitors and locals, Aruba has implemented another series of measures.
Since August 22, there has been an overnight curfew from 10 pm to 5 am. Also, all establishments must now close at 9 pm. Hotel facilities are excluded from this requirement.
Moreover, there are restrictions on the number of people at gatherings both in public and private homes. Parties are not allowed at all.
On top of that, all restaurants, bars, rum shops, and nightclubs can serve only at tables. There is also a 50% capacity limitation on certain businesses, including cinemas and supermarkets.
For more detailed information, see VisitAruba.com
August 17 – Aruba to reintroduce several health measures to flatten a spike in infections
Aruba has been introducing a series of health measures to flatten the current curve of infections.
On August 1, the government decided to lift the benefit of either presenting a COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination. As of today, all travelers need to submit a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival, regardless of their vaccination status.
On August 7, Aruba determined that all night-life venues must be closed by midnight at the least. The measure excludes establishments at hotel facilities.
On August 13, the government banned all private parties. Only 1 musician is allowed per establishment.
Source: Visit Aruba