01The basics
In Curaçao you drive on the right and overtake on the left, just like in the United States, Canada and most of Europe. Road signs follow the Dutch and European style, distances are in kilometres and speeds in km/h.
- Everyone in the car wears a seat belt.
- Young children ride in a child seat. We include baby, child and booster seats free of charge; just ask when you book.
- Don't use a phone in your hand while driving. Use hands-free or let a passenger navigate.
- Carry your driver's license and the rental agreement when you drive.
All our cars are automatic with air conditioning, so you can concentrate on the road instead of the gears.
02Speed limits
Speed limits are lower than many visitors are used to. As a rule of thumb it's 40 km/h in built-up areas, 60 km/h outside town and up to 80 km/h on the main roads around Willemstad. Signs always take priority, so keep an eye out for them, especially near schools and villages.
Expect speed bumps, often in villages and near beaches, and not always painted. Slow down when you see a warning sign or when the road narrows.
03Right of way and roundabouts
At junctions without signs, traffic lights or road markings, traffic coming from the right has priority. On main roads you'll usually see clear signs telling you who gives way.
Curaçao has many roundabouts. Follow the signs and markings at each one: a row of white triangles ("shark's teeth") on the road means you give way. Enter calmly, signal when you leave and watch for scooters.
Local drivers are friendly but can be quick. If someone flashes their lights at a junction, they're usually letting you go first.
04Fuel and gas stations
There are gas stations all around Willemstad and along the main roads. Fuel prices are regulated, so you pay about the same at every station. At many stations an attendant fills up for you; at others you pay at the counter first.
Stations get scarcer in the far west, around Westpunt. If you're heading to the west-coast beaches, fill up in or near Willemstad before you go.
Our fuel policy is simple: return the car with the same fuel level you received it with. Missing fuel is charged at $5 per liter.
05Parking in Willemstad and at the beaches
In the centre of Willemstad, around Punda, Otrobanda and Pietermaai, parking is mostly paid. Use the parking meters or one of the official car parks, and don't park on yellow lines or in front of driveways. Parking fines during your rental are the renter's responsibility.
At supermarkets, most beaches and most attractions, parking is free. Some beach clubs charge an entrance fee that includes parking.
Never leave bags, phones or passports visible in a parked car, especially at quiet beaches and viewpoints. Take them with you or keep them out of sight.
06Night driving and road safety
The main roads are paved and in good condition. Smaller roads can have potholes, sharp turns and no street lights, so take it slow after dark, especially in the countryside of Banda Abou in the west.
- Watch for goats, dogs and iguanas on country roads.
- Give cyclists and pedestrians plenty of room; many roads have no sidewalk.
- Never drink and drive. Police do checks, and it isn't worth the risk.
- Rush hour around Willemstad is roughly 7:00 to 8:30 and 16:30 to 18:00. Plan airport runs around it.
07If something happens
After an accident, stop safely and call Forensys on +5999 9233. They make the official report that insurers need. In an emergency, call 911. Then let us know.
For a flat tire, a warning light or lost keys, call or WhatsApp our 24/7 line on +599 9668 2260. We'll help you, day or night.
08How long does it take?
Curaçao is about 60 km long, so nothing is far. Typical drive times without traffic:
- Airport → WillemstadAbout 15 to 20 minutes
- Willemstad → Jan Thiel / Mambo BeachAbout 15 minutes
- Willemstad → Grote KnipAbout 40 minutes
- Willemstad → WestpuntAbout 45 to 60 minutes
Google Maps and Waze both work well on the island. Planning a day at the beach? Our beaches road trip guide has a route and tips.
09What you need to rent a car
To rent with us you need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit, and you need to be at least 21. The minimum rental is 3 days.
We pick you up at the airport with our free shuttle, or deliver the car free to your hotel or villa. Travelling with family or a group? See our SUVs and 7- and 8-seaters.
