Travel Vaccines and Advice for Aruba
Popular with Canadian travellers, Aruba is a top tropical destination. The country has ideal weather, including little rain. This makes Aruba’s world-renowned beaches that much more astounding.
Aruba gives visitors the opportunity to experience a unique blend of cultures. You will find elements of many cultures plus its current Dutch influence throughout your stay.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Aruba?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Aruba
Do I Need a Visa to Go to Aruba?
What Is the Climate Like in Aruba?
How Safe Is Aruba?
Natural Bridge and Natural Pool in Aruba
What Should I Take to Aruba?
Canadian Consulate in Aruba
Do I Need Vaccines for Aruba?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Aruba. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Aruba: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Aruba |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Aruba |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those at higher risk of typhoid exposure. Implementing rigorous hygiene practices and food safety measures is essential for comprehensive protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Due to the presence of Zika, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should consult with a physician before travel.
Travellers’ diarrhea is another risk to travellers to Aruba. This common symptom can occur at any time for a variety of reasons. Consider bringing a travellers’ diarrhea kit with you to avoid any unwanted gastric situations.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy In Aruba
Prevent Bug Bites in Aruba
When bitten by bugs, clean the area with soap and water, refrain from scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies. For severe reactions or tick bites, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Following PHAC guidelines can help prevent and manage bug bites effectively.
Food and Water Safety In Aruba
When eating abroad, prioritize cooked and hot foods, choose reputable eateries, and practice good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages, avoid tap water, and enjoy hot drinks or alcohol responsibly. To avoid travellers’ diarrhea, follow these tips: eat well-prepared foods, drink safe water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be selective about local dishes.
Infections To Be Aware of in Aruba
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
Do I Need a Visa to Go to Aruba?
A passport is required for travel to Aruba. A visa is only required for stays longer than 30 days.
Aruba may require proof of return travel and proof of sufficient funds upon entry.
Tourists cannot exceed six months of stay in a calendar year.
Aruba Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Aruba? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Aruba and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Aruba?
Aruba has consistent weather throughout the year. The island stays around 25 on average. As expected, all the coastlines follow the typical beach climate.
The mainland area is a desert climate, with drier air. Each season has its own unique characteristics, prepare accordingly.
- Winter – Though the coolest month in Aruba is January, do not let this fool you. Temperatures only fall to around 23 in winter months.
- Spring – Generally less crowded, making it a great time to visit. Expect temperatures around 30.
- Summer – The driest part of the year, summer temperatures are only slightly warmer than spring.
- Fall – September is the hottest month in Aruba due to the decrease in winds from the summer months. Temperatures can get to 30.
The rainiest months are October to January, but rainfall is still lower than most the Caribbean.
How Safe Is Aruba?
Aruba has very low crime levels. But, theft does take place on beaches where belonging are left unattended. Stay alert in crowds and keep your items close to you.
Always carry identification, specifically a photocopy of your passport. Leave your passport and travel documents in a safe space in your resort or hotel.
If you are under the age of 21 or travelling with people who are, be aware the legal drinking age is 18 in Aruba. It is important to be aware of how many alcoholic beverages you are consuming especially in an unfamiliar location.
Both rental vehicles and public transit are available. Aruban roads differ from Canada as animals and scooters are common. Keep in mind Aruba has different driving laws than Canada and you should be aware of these before driving.
Natural Bridge and Natural Pool in Aruba
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
The north-eastern area of Aruba offers both the Natural Bridge and Natural Pool.
The Natural Bridge, originally a cave, was created over time by the constant ocean waves. Eventually, the cave collapsed creating the bridge you will see upon your travels. The bridge lost some of its original form in 2005 but is still a brilliant natural element of the island. You will find the Natural Bridge just north of Arikok National Park.
The Natural Pool is located in Arikok National Park, near the bridge. The pool is completely natural and is found among the rocks on the coastline. It is shielded by the rock face from the ocean waves, making for a unique and pleasant experience.
Access the Natural Pool either via an ATV tour or a hike through the natural park. The views of the ocean and surrounding land will not disappoint.
What Should I Take to Aruba?
Such a beautiful destination still requires some extra thing in your suitcase. Make sure you have these items in your luggage:
- Medication and First Aid – It is always better to be prepared. Bring along any recommended medications and an appropriate first-aid kit.
- Sunscreen and Bug Spray – Look to invest in sunscreen as well as sun protective clothing. Use bug spray that contains at least 20 percent of DEET or more.
- Water and Beach Gear – Though available to buy in Aruba, consider bringing any beach gear with you. This includes goggles, snorkels, flippers, or beach games.
- Electronics and Personal Belonging – If you cannot replace it, do not bring it. The risk of theft is low in Aruba but it can happen. The less you bring, the better for both travel and replacement purposes.
- Clothing and Shoes – Sturdy shoes, and water shoes or flip flops for the beach are recommended.
Canadian Embassy in Aruba
There is no Canadian Embassy located in Aruba. All requests are deferred to the nearby Canadian Embassy in Colombia. The Canadian government encourages travellers to purchase travelling insurance should you encounter an emergency. Notify the embassy as soon as possible in the event of an emergency.
Canadian Embassy in Colombia
Cra. 7, No. 114-33, Piso 14,
Bogotá, D.C. Colombia
Telephone: (57-601) 657-9800
Fax: (57-601) 657-9912
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
US – English
CA – English
UK – English
Rest of World – English
