Your all-in-one travel checklist for a smooth and stress-free trip to Curacao

Traveling to Curacao is easy, but good preparation makes all the difference. From documents and payments to transportation, activities, and on-island tips - this guide helps you arrive relaxed and enjoy every moment of your stay.

Smooth Travel Preparation

A stress-free trip starts with good planning, no matter where you’re flying from.

Check Your Airline Requirements

Before departure, always check:

• Baggage limits and allowed items
  
• Online check-in availability
  
• Passport validity requirements set by your home country
  
  

Prepare for Airport Security & Immigration

• Keep travel documents easily accessible
  
• Follow liquid and carry-on regulations
  
• Ensure electronic devices are charged
  
  

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements

Arriving prepared avoids delays on arrival.

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival
  
• Visa: Most travelers (including EU, US, Canada) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days
  
• Digital Immigration Card (DI Card): Mandatory for all visitors
  
  

Digital Immigration Card (DI Card)

• Can be completed within 7 days before arrival
  
• Must be completed no later than 24 hours before travel
  
• Printing the confirmation is recommended
  
  

Faster arrival tip:
With a completed DI Card, you can use the automated eGates at Curacao International Airport. Travelers with children under 18 must use manual passport control.

Money, Payments & Cards

Payments in Curacao are straightforward.

• Local currency: Curacaoan guilder (XCG)
  
• USD is widely accepted across the island
  
• Contactless card payments usually work up to 100 XCG
  
• For higher amounts, insert your card and enter your PIN
  
  

Debit & Credit Cards

• Activate your debit card for international use before travel
  
• Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shops, and car rentals
  
• ATMs are available throughout Willemstad
  
  

Good to know:
Car rental companies usually place a temporary security hold on your credit card.

Book Your Activities & Excursions in Advance

Curacao offers amazing activities, but many have limited availability. Popular experiences like:

• Klein Curacao boat trips
• Dolphin encounters
• ATV/UTV tours
• Sightseeing tours

…often sell out days in advance, especially during high season or cruise ship days.

To avoid disappointment, plan your dream trip today

Book your excursions early - ideally before your trip. Compare, choose, and book your favorite activities easily on our website - from boat tours and cultural walks to adventure trips and family experiences.

Explore all 100+ tours on My Curacao Guide.

Transportation on the Island

Getting around Curacao is easiest with your own vehicle.

Renting a Car

A rental car is highly recommended due to:

• Long distances between attractions
  
• Limited sidewalks
  
• Warm temperatures
  
  

With a car, you can easily visit:

• West coast beaches
  
• Christoffel National Park
  
• Local restaurants and viewpoints
  
  

Important:
There is a long-term car rental shortage, especially during high season. Reserve early.

Fuel Stations

Fuel is prepaid before pumping. Any unused balance is refunded at the counter.

Offline Navigation

Download offline maps before arrival:

• Maps.me
  
• Google Maps (offline)
  
• Maps from the My Curacao Guide Travel Magazine & Cruise Map
  
  

Flying & Arrival

Curacao International Airport (CUR) is modern and efficient.

• Clear signage in English and Dutch
  
• Car rentals, taxis, and private transfers available on arrival
  
• Airport is 20–25 minutes from most areas in Willemstad
  
  

Tip:
Taxis can be expensive. Renting a car or booking a transfer in advance is often more cost-effective.

Traveling With Children

Curacao is very family-friendly.

Baby and toddler equipment can be rented locally, including:

• Car seats
  
• High chairs
  
• Travel cots
  
• Strollers and buggies
  
• Maxi-Cosi seats

Available via Parental Rental Curacao.

Climate, Clothing & What to Wear

Curacao has a warm tropical climate year-round.

Recommended:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
  
• Sunhat and sunglasses
  
• Reef-safe sunscreen
  
• Water shoes for rocky beaches
  
• Hiking shoes for Christoffelberg and salt pans

View the complete Curacao Packing List

Beaches & Safety

Curacao’s beaches are stunning, but preparation matters.

• Use dry bags for valuables
  
• Some beaches have strong currents - swim with care
  
• Remote beaches may lack facilities, bring water and snacks
  
  

Internet & Communication

Staying connected is easy.

• Free Wi-Fi in most hotels, cafés, and restaurants
  
• Offline maps are useful in remote areas
  
  

Health & Practical Tips

• Tap water is safe to drink everywhere
  
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are essential
  
• Local tip: Aloe-based products such as Aloe Buzz are widely available at botikas and supermarkets
  
  

Shopping & Tipping

Popular souvenirs include:

• Curacao Blue liqueur
  
• Local rum
  
• Handmade oils, jewelry, art, and coffee
  
  

Tipping:

• 10–15% in restaurants is customary
  
  

Complete Packing List for Curacao

This page focuses on travel planning and practical tips.
For a full item-by-item packing checklist - including clothing, accessories, tech, health items, beach gear, and excursion essentials - visit our dedicated page Curacao Packing List