Gas Prices in Aruba 2026: What a Tank Costs in a Rental Car
Gas in Aruba got more expensive in August 2026. If you plan to rent a car, that raises two questions: what will fuel cost on a normal holiday, and how do you avoid paying extra when you return the car?
The good news is that Aruba is small. The island is about 30 km long and 6 km wide, so most visitors burn far less fuel than they expect.
Current gas prices in Aruba
On 12 August 2026 the government ended the temporary fuel support it had paid since April. Prices rose by 25.1 cents per liter for gasoline and 29.7 cents for diesel. Since then the pump prices are:
- Gasoline: AWG 2.909 per liter
- Diesel: AWG 2.863 per liter
At the pegged rate of about AWG 1.79 per US dollar, gasoline comes to roughly US$1.60 to US$1.65 per liter, or around US$6 per gallon. The government linked the rise to uncertainty on global oil markets. Fuel prices can change again, so check the pump when you fill up.
What a holiday costs in fuel
The numbers help you plan. A small economy car holds roughly 40 to 45 liters, which is about US$65 to US$75 for a full tank at current prices. Driving from the hotel strip in Palm Beach to Baby Beach at the southern tip takes about 30 to 35 minutes, and the whole island fits into a day trip.
For a week of beach days, dinners in Oranjestad and one island loop, many visitors fill up once or twice. A Jeep or SUV drinks more, especially on the rough tracks inside the park. Our Aruba Jeep rental guide covers when the bigger vehicle is worth the extra fuel.
Where to fill up
Stations are spread across the island, with the most near Oranjestad, the airport road and the main route to San Nicolas. Fuel up in the central area before you head south to the tip or north-east toward the wild coast. There are no gas stations inside Arikok National Park, and the off-road loop uses more fuel than paved driving. Our Arikok National Park guide explains what each vehicle can reach.
Fuel policies and how to avoid fees
Rental companies handle fuel in different ways. Many ask you to return the car with the same fuel level you received, and some charge a service fee plus a higher per-liter price if you bring it back low. Others offer prepaid fuel. The rules differ by company, so check them in your booking before you pick up the car.
Take a photo of the fuel gauge at pickup and again at return. Fill up close to the airport or drop-off location just before you return the car, and keep the receipt.
Ways to keep fuel costs low
Book a compact or economy car if you stay in the hotel zone and plan beach days. Local rentals typically start around $25 to $35 per day for economy cars, well below airport desk prices, and smaller engines save money at the pump. Our Aruba rental price guide breaks down daily rates by category.
Combine trips. Aruba's distances are short, so a plan that groups the lighthouse, the beaches and dinner into one loop saves driving.
Use TropicDrive to compare more than 30 vetted local companies, see live availability and read fuel and deposit conditions before you book. Compare cars in Aruba.
"Saved over $200 compared to airport prices. The local company was fantastic and the car was perfect." - Sarah M.
"Easy booking process and great customer service. Will definitely use TropicDrive again." - Michael R.
Frequently asked questions
How much is gas in Aruba in 2026?
Since 12 August 2026 gasoline costs AWG 2.909 per liter and diesel AWG 2.863 per liter. That is roughly US$1.60 per liter.
Is gas expensive in Aruba?
Prices are higher than in most of the United States. The island is only about 30 km long, so a typical holiday uses little fuel.
Are there gas stations inside Arikok National Park?
No. Fill the tank before you enter the park.
Should I return the rental car with a full tank?
Check the fuel policy in your booking. Many companies expect the same level you received, and charge extra if you return the car low.
