Do You Need To Rent A Car In Curaçao?
Renting a car in Curaçao can be convenient if you would like to get acquainted with the island. It’s the easiest way to get from one side of the island to the other. But is it really necessary to rent a car in Curaçao? Can you not just take public transportation or call a taxi every time you want to go somewhere? Let me tell you more about that!
Is it necessary to rent a car?
Discovering Curaçao is not doable without driving a vehicle. In other words: If you want to see the island, you will need a car. Most sights are spread all over the island and the public transportation system is not advanced nor reliable.
Taking a taxi in Curaçao is pricy. You can be charged $30 US dollars for a 10-minute drive. Note that most sights and beaches are 20-50 minutes away from the center of Willemstad.
Renting a car is the best and cheapest option to get around the island, but it also gives you the freedom to decide where to go whenever you want to go. You might not need a car for your whole staying, but having a car for a couple of days, will be the smarter move to make.
In the end, it all depends on your location and your preferences. If your hotel is in Willemstad and you are comfortable with staying around town, renting a car would not be necessary since a lot of facilities are within walking distance.
However, most accommodations are situated in slightly remote areas, and driving a car will be your best option to get somewhere.
5 Reasons why you need a car in Curaçao
Still in doubt whether you should rent a car in Curaçao? Here are some reasons why you should hire a car to get around the island:
- It gives you the freedom to explore
- Renting a car is stress-free
- You can plan your schedule
- Renting a car is cheaper than taking a taxi
- It is convenient when you need to take things with you
What do you need to rent a car in Curacao?
All you need to rent a car in Curacao is your passport, a valid driving license, and being older than 21 years old. Most car rental companies will ask for a cash deposit or will put a hold on your credit card for about $ 500,00. Other than that you are good to go!
Taking insurance for your rented car
It is recommendable to choose full coverage. Although it is not common, we have heard witnessed events where cars got damaged in both public in private parking lots. Based on what we’ve seen and after asking around, we have been told that Curacao has a high rate of car crashes and accidents for such a small island. Therefore, getting that extra insurance is highly advisable.
Is it worth renting a four-wheel drive (4×4)?
Renting a four-wheel drive in Curaçao is not necessary. Only when you plan on doing off-road activities you might enjoy that extra traction and torque you get on a 4×4 vehicle. Other than that, does not require engaging four-wheel drive.
Should I rent a high-up car in Curaçao?
The streets in Curacao are bumpy, and you will often get off the paved road, especially when you drive around the National Parks and beaches near Bandabou. A sedan will get you around as well, but if you are used to driving high rides and there’s some extra space in your budget, having a high-up car will be convenient.
Where to rent a Car
We’ve partnered with an excellent booking platform that provides a wide variety of vehicles, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service. Visit DiscoverCars.com to rent your car in Curacao! This platform allows you to check and compare different cars and providers from trustworthy companies.
Need a little extra help with your booking? No problem! We’ve put together a list of professional local providers who can find the perfect car for you. Please email us at contact@exploringcuracao.com with your travel dates and accommodation area, or your cruise ship name, and we’ll get started!
Renting a car at the airport
You will also find rental companies outside the Hato International Airport, but the pricing might be significantly higher.
However, you can also rent a car at DiscoverCars.com before you arrive in Curaçao, with the option to be delivered or to be picked-up at the airport; this way, you will save valuable time and avoid the hassle of dealing with unofficial car rentals.
