With a shoreline peppered with multicoloured buildings, clear waters and an interesting history, there’s so much waiting to be discovered in Curaçao. If you’re planning a trip, getting there is easier than you might expect. Direct flights connect Curaçao to destinations across Europe, North America, South America and the wider Caribbean, with easy transfers from the UK. Whether travelling for a well-deserved standalone holiday or as part of an island hopping trip from another part of the Caribbean, there are several ways to reach Curaçao. Here’s everything you need to know.
Where is Curaçao located?
Curaçao is located in the southern Caribbean, just north of Venezuela. It is one of the three ABC islands, alongside Aruba and Bonaire and its location makes it particularly accessible from other Caribbean islands, while strong connections with the Netherlands make it one of the easier Caribbean islands to reach from Europe.
Getting to Curaçao from the UK and Europe
Curaçao International Airport (CUR) is the island’s main international airport. It currently serves a wide network of international and regional airlines including TUI, KLM, American Airlines, Delta, United and Caribbean Airlines (you can find a full list here.). While you can’t fly directly from the UK, it’s easy to get a connecting flight or make it part of a wider trip to multiple destinations.
One of the most straightforward options for getting to Curaçao from the UK, is travelling via Amsterdam. KLM, TUIfly Netherlands and Corendon Dutch Airlines all offer regular direct flights between Amsterdam Schiphol and Curaçao.
If you’ve booked with a single ticket you don’t need to worry about clearing passport control or security and can simply walk from your arrival gate to your departure one. If you booked two separate tickets, it’s recommended you leave at least 3.5 to 4 hours between flights. This gives time for you to collect your bags, check your luggage in again and go through airport security. Keep in mind if you’ve bought a single ticket and your first flight is delayed so you miss the connection, the airline is legally required to rebook you on the next available flight for free. If you’ve booked a self-transfer however, you’ll have to pay for a new one out of pocket.
Getting to Curaçao from Other Caribbean Islands
If you’re already travelling around the Caribbean, Curaçao can easily be incorporated into a multi-island itinerary. Whether island hopping or just looking to stay at a couple of destinations for a longer period of time, many islands have flights to and from Curaçao. Some of the most popular destinations with connecting flights to Curaçao include Aruba, Bonaire, St. Maarten, Trinidad & Tobago and the Dominican Republic.
Thanks to the short flight times between the ABC islands, many choose to combine the three into one trip.
Arriving by Cruise Ship
Flying isn’t the only way to visit Curaçao. The island regularly welcomes cruise ships, with cruise passengers arriving into Willemstad, Curaçao’s colourful capital. There are two main cruise facilities in the city – the Mega Cruise Terminal and Mathey Wharf. A cruise visit gives you the opportunity to experience Curaçao as part of a wider Caribbean itinerary, although a cruise stop is very different from staying on the island for several days and offers a small taster as opposed to the full experience.
What are Curaçao Entry Requirements?
Before travelling to Curaçao, make sure you check the latest entry requirements so there aren’t any issues or hold-ups. 48 hours before arrival, you must fill out Curaçao’s Digital Immigration Card online. Be prepared to show the submitted card either digitally or as a printout when entering the island so have this handy for everyone in your party before you travel.
If you’re from a country listed as a transmission risk for yellow fever, you must have a certificate proving you’d had a vaccination. The countries classed as a risk can be found here.
With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and a vibrant Dutch-Caribbean culture, Curaçao is well worth considering for your next Caribbean escape. Getting there is easier than ever, whether visiting as a destination on its own, or as part of a multi-island adventure. Find out more about Curaçao here.
