Safety and Security

There are no known terrorist or extremist groups, or areas of instability on the BES islands, although drug trafficking organizations do operate on the island. 

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the U.S. Consulate on Curacao on Facebook or by visiting the Consulate’s website.
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: The crime threat in the BES islands is generally considered low for Saba and St. Eustatuis and medium for Bonaire, although travelers should always take precautions when in unfamiliar surroundings.  There have been incidents of theft from hotel rooms and vehicles.  Armed robberies have been known to occur. Valuables left unattended on beaches, in cars and in hotel lobbies are easy targets for theft.  Jewelry, phones, cameras and other electronics are the most commonly stolen items.  U.S. travelers on Bonaire report their items were taken from hotel rooms and safes while they were on night scuba dives.  Extra precautions should be taken to secure personal property at all times.  U.S. travelers should have a copy of their valid U.S. passport in a secure location in case their passport is stolen.

Car theft, especially of rental vehicles, can occur.  Vehicle leases or rentals may not be fully covered by local insurance when a vehicle is stolen or damaged.  Be sure you are sufficiently insured when renting vehicles and jet skis.

Parents of young travelers should be aware that the legal drinking age of 18 is not always rigorously enforced in the BES islands, so extra parental supervision may be appropriate.  Young travelers in particular are urged to take the same precautions they would when going out in the United States, e.g. to travel in pairs or in groups if they choose to patronize entertainment businesses in the BES islands, and if they opt to consume alcohol, to do so responsibly.  Anyone who is a victim of a crime should make a report to the local police, as well as report it immediately to the U.S. Consulate General on Curacao.  Do not rely on hotel/restaurant/tour company management to make the report for you.

VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  We can:

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
• Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.  

Dial “911” on the BES islands for emergency police assistance.

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.