Curaçao Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Curaçao.

Curaçao is generally a safe destination for travelers.

• Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins.
• Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. Some sellers may be aggressive. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.
• Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activity.
• It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Curaçao. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Curaçao to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Curaçao

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Curaçao, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Petty theft and street crime are a concern. 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
• being on the look-out for bag snatchers

Drug smuggling

Criminals continue to use the islands of the Dutch Caribbean to smuggle illegal drugs from South America to Europe and North America. Because of this problem, never leave luggage unattended when departing the country. Do not discuss or agree to carry a package for anyone. You may be asked to have a body scan at some airports. Dutch authorities generally screen all baggage and passengers from the Dutch Caribbean.

Risk level

Curaçao - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Curaçao.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs in Curaçao.

Residential break-ins and theft from vehicles, hotel rooms and rental units also take place.

Crime typically increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival, which takes place from January to March.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Never leave valuables such as jewellery, cell phones, electronics, wallets or bags unattended on the beach or in your vehicle

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as homicides, armed robberies, home invasions and sexual assaults, occurs although the number of incidents remains low.

• Avoid unpopulated areas or unpatrolled beaches after dark
• Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe
• Stay in accommodations with good security and keep your doors and windows locked

Women's safety

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

Advice for women travellers