Money & Payments

• Currency:
  The official currency on Curaçao is the Caribbean guilder (Cg or XCG).
• In many places, you can also pay with US dollars (USD), as long as the banknotes are clean and undamaged. A commonly used exchange rate is approximately XCG 1.75 = US$ 1. When paying in dollars, you will usually receive your change in Caribbean guilders.
• Euros are rarely accepted. Exchanging money is only possible at a bank, which often takes time. Banks typically charge a fee of XCG 15 to 25, and you can exchange a maximum of €300 per day. Don’t forget to bring your passport and flight ticket.
• Useful rule of thumb:
  The exchange rate is roughly €1 = XCG 2      USD: $1 = XCG1.75 

• Paying on Curaçao:
• Debit card
  In most supermarkets, shops, and restaurants, you can use a debit card. Keep in mind that your bank will usually charge a small currency exchange fee of about 1–2%.
• Credit card
  Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. American Express is accepted less frequently. Credit card payments are usually processed in US dollars, which often results in about 5% extra costs.
• Apple Pay
  Apple Pay is not yet accepted everywhere on Curaçao, but the number of locations is growing.
• Cash
  Cash payments are accepted almost everywhere, in Caribbean guilders or US dollars.
  For taxis, small beach bars, local guides, or some excursions, cash is sometimes the only option.

• Cash & ATMs:
  It is difficult to obtain Caribbean guilders in other countries. If you want to have some cash upon arrival, it’s best to bring US dollars.
• There is an ATM at Hato Airport, but it is not always operational. Fortunately, there are plenty of ATMs across the island.
• When withdrawing money with a foreign debit card, both the local bank and your own bank will charge fees. Together, this can quickly add up to about $ 10 per withdrawal, regardless of the amount. Since the local bank charges a fixed fee per transaction, it is often cheaper to withdraw a larger amount at once. 

• Important! Enable your debit card & bring your reader 

• Helpful local tips:
• 🚕 Taxis have fixed prices
  Taxis on Curaçao do not use meters. The government sets fixed rates for different routes. Always agree on the price in advance.
• ⛽ Fueling on Curaçao
  At most gas stations, you need to pay at the cashier before fueling. You tell them the amount you want to spend.
• If your tank cannot hold the full prepaid amount, you can simply return to the cashier to receive the difference.
• Another option is to leave your credit or debit card with the cashier while you fuel. Once finished, you return to pay the exact amount.