How to stay safe in Curaçao? (2024)

How to stay safe in Curaçao?

Some general guidelines to stay safe while visiting Curaçao

General safety

  • Generally speaking, Curaçao is considered to be safe, but robberies and petty crime happen on occasion.
  • Watch out for pickpockets. Don't show off your expensive jewellery and don't walk around with too much cash in your wallet. Keep valuable possessions in your bag or even better in a safe at the hotel.
  • Incidents of robbery are not uncommon so avoid alleys and other quiet or dark streets because these can be unsafe.
  • Serious crimes occur mostly in the organised criminal world, involving drugs or weapons trade. As an outsider you will usually not get caught up in this. Drug related crimes are punished severely.
  • In case of emergency you can call the tourist emergency number: 917.

Criminality

  • Most serious crimes are part of the organised criminal world involving drugs or weapons trade. As a visitor it is unlikely you will be dealing with these kind of crimes.
  • Keep an eye on your luggage at all times – especially at the airport and busy tourist spots – don't accept packages from anyone and ensure nothing can be placed in your luggage.

Forces of nature

  • From June to November hurricanes can occur in the Caribbean area. Yet they rarely reach Curaçao.

Traffic

  • The traffic is mostly safe in Curaçao. Yet Curaçaoans often don't take traffic rules too seriously. For example, sometimes drivers will overtake on the right side instead of on the left. Frequently the rule of giving way to traffic from the right is also put into practice differently.
  • Watch out for scooters and cars without lights at night.
  • Be aware that drunk driving is not uncommon in Curaçao.
  • Curaçaoans drive on the right side of the road.

Legislation

  • All drugs, hard and soft, are illegal. Possessing or using drugs, any drugs including marihuana or prescription drugs for which you can’t provide the prescription, is punished severely. Bring a Medical Passport or an official prescription when using medication, especially any sedatives and strong painkillers containing codeine.

Dangerous areas

  • Check what areas are deemed unsafe before arriving in Curaçao so you don't accidentally end up somewhere dangerous.
  • Do keep in mind these areas change so always check the up to date safety information.
  • Areas that are traditionally considered unsafe (especially at night) are: Koredor, Punda, Otrabanda, the Mambo Beach parking lot, the neighbourhoods of Scharloo, Fleur de Marie, Seru Fortuna, Marchena, Seru di Kandela, Souax, Koraalspecht, Seru Loraweg, Dein, Kanga, and most beach areas.
  • Avoid remote and unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches after dark.

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Safe areas CS contributed on 05-12-2023 02:39

What beaches should we stay away from that are unsafe and why?

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How to stay safe in Curaçao? (2024)

FAQs

How to stay safe in Curaçao? ›

Crime rate: Crime in Curacao mostly affects the local residents; tourists need only worry about petty theft and car theft. Dangerous areas: Tourists should stay away from Stone Rich, Koraal Specht, Otrobanda, Marie Pampoen, Seru di Kandela, and Kanga—all of them located in the capital.

How can we stay safe in Curaçao? ›

Protecting yourself and your belongings

There are violent crimes related to the illegal drugs world, but the main tourist areas are generally safe. Take precautions such as: avoiding isolated areas, including beaches, after dark. keeping valuables secure and out of sight.

Is it safe to walk at night in Curaçao? ›

Going out at night:

But remember to stay on the main streets while you venture out by foot at night. Be sure to stay in well-lit and lively areas. If you decide to have a drink, know your limits. It's never good to be intoxicated and venture in an unfamiliar area.

How can we stay safe in the Caribbean? ›

Tips to Ensure Your Safety While in the Caribbean. Stay alert – Take precautions to safeguard your belongings. Keep your wallet and phone in your pockets, avoid wearing jewelry, and be cautious when using ATMs. It's advisable not to carry your passport with you at all times.

How do I prepare for a trip to Curaçao? ›

Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Seamless Curacao Trip: From A to Z in 10 Steps
  1. Set Your Budget: Calculate a realistic budget for your trip by calculating all your expenses. ...
  2. Plan Your Itinerary: ...
  3. Gather Travel Documents: ...
  4. Health & Safety: ...
  5. Efficient Packing: ...
  6. Ensure Communication:

What to avoid in Curaçao? ›

Dangerous areas: Tourists should stay away from Stone Rich, Koraal Specht, Otrobanda, Marie Pampoen, Seru di Kandela, and Kanga—all of them located in the capital. Police presence: Curacao has a special police force whose only job is to protect tourists.

Is Curaçao safe for female travelers? ›

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Can I drink tap water in Curaçao? ›

Not only is Curaçao's water safe to drink, it is of the finest quality. Around 1890, American wind turbines were imported to Curaçao for irrigation of the land. In 1928, a seawater distillery for production of drinking water was put into production.

What should I wear in Curaçao? ›

Cover-ups: Bring along lightweight cover-ups like sarongs, kaftans, or loose shirts to wear over your swimwear while walking around or relaxing at beachside cafes. Sun hats and sunglasses: A wide-brimmed sun hat and a pair of polarized sunglasses are essential to protect your face and eyes from the sun's harsh rays.

What is the dress code in Curaçao? ›

Dressing Casual is Okay

This island destination encourages tourists to dress as comfortably as possible for the warm weather, and flip flops and sunglasses are practically the dress code on Curacao.

What is the safest and cheapest Caribbean island? ›

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the cheapest Caribbean island to fly to. It's popular for its cheap all-inclusive resorts and adventure activities, which are available at affordable prices. This island boasts several of the Caribbean's best beaches with crystalline waters and pristine coral reefs.

What are the risks in the Caribbean? ›

Those risks include: (i) rising sea levels and the attendant beach erosion; (ii) increased surface temperatures; (iii) increased sedimentation of coastal waters; (iv) ocean warming; and (v) storms and hurricanes, with their associated displacement of per- sons living in coastal communities.

Is it safe for Americans in Curaçao? ›

Is Curaçao Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers? Curaçao is generally considered safe for tourists. While petty theft and street crime are concerns in the area, the main tourist areas are safe. This means most tourists do not fear for their safety and can explore the island freely.

What can I not bring to Curaçao? ›

Customs restriction in Curaçao are similar to just about everwhere else in the world. Prescription drugs, particularly if they contain narcotics, should be clearly marked. Unlike in the Netherlands, possession of even the smallest amount of marijuana or other illegal drugs is a serious offense.

Where is the safest place to live in Curaçao? ›

Which areas are the best to live in Curaçao? Areas like Willemstad, Piscadera, Jan Thiel, and Mambo Beach are some of the best places to live in Curaçao.

Can US citizens live in Curaçao? ›

If you are a US citizen, you can stay in Curaçao for a period of six months continuously in a year without a visa or a residence permit. However, if you want to stay in the country or work there for more than six months, you will need to file your application for a residence permit in Curaçao.

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