How to Call Aruba

Calling From a Landline or Cell Phone

Enter your country's IDD code. To make international calls, you must first enter the specific international direct dial (IDD) code for your country. This is a 3 digit number that indicates what country you are calling from. To find the IDD for your country, visit https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/international-calling-codes.htm. For instance, the IDD for the United States is 011.

Dial 297 to enter Aruba's country code. After entering your country's IDD, dial Aruba's International Subscriber Dialing Code (ISD). The ISD, which is also known as the country code, is always 297. This applies whether you are calling from a landline or cell phone.

Dial the phone number in Aruba that you want to reach. Once you have specified the IDD and ISD, dial the number you want to reach. Enter the 7-digit number the same way you would make a local call. The call should go through immediately.

Use a prepaid international phone card for lower call rates. Prepaid phone cards can offer you a better long distance rate than your current phone carrier, but you should beware of possible scams. Make sure to get a no-fee card and check for an expiration date before purchasing it. Purchase prepaid cards in small amounts in case the company issuing them goes out of business. Look for a card from a company that has a 24-hour, toll-free customer service number for help with any issues you may have.

Using Skype to Call Aruba

Download Skype to your mobile device or computer. Skype is a communication platform available as a free download for all users. Make sure that your operating system meets the system requirements for Skype. Download it from the Apple app store, Google Play store, or from https://www.skype.com/en.

Create a Skype account. Regardless of whether you are using Skype for free services or paid calls, you have to create an account to use it. Follow the instructions on the app and provide your email address or phone number to start the registration process. You can also visit the site and click "sign up" to register on your computer at https://www.skype.com/en/.

Purchase Skype credits to pay as you go for calls. Sign into your account and select the "buy credit" option. Choose the amount of credits you want to purchase and click "continue." Select your method of payment and click "pay now" to complete the purchase. Once your payment is approved, the amount should be reflected in your Skype balance. The price of each call you make will be automatically deducted from your balance. Rates for calls are approximately $0.21 per minute for calls to landlines in Aruba, and $0.31 for call to cell phones. A connection fee of $0.11 per call also applies.

Choose a monthly plan if you make regular calls to Aruba. Skype offers a few specific plans for regular calls to Aruba. Decide if you want to call both landlines and mobile phones, and how many minutes of talk time you want each month. You can cancel monthly plans any time through the "subscriptions" list on your account page. You can opt to be billed each month, every 3 months, or yearly.

Make calls through the app. Make sure that you have access to a WiFi connection to ensure that you are not charged for data usage. Open your Skype app and click the "call" icon on the screen. When the dial screen comes up, type the number in Aruba that you want to reach, complete with the IDD and ISD codes. Press the phone icon to make the call.

Make a free call to someone in Aruba who has Skype. Skype to Skype calls are free since they rely on an internet connection. To make a call, select the person you want to reach from your contact list, then press the call button. It is best to let the person you are calling know in advance so that they can log into their Skype account and answer the call.

Making Local Calls in Aruba

Use your own cell phone plan with caution. Roaming fees while using your phone in foreign countries can leave you with an overwhelming bill. Contact your carrier before travelling to find out the specific rates you will be charged for making calls in Aruba. Avoid surprise charges by turning off data roaming on your phone, and by locking your phone to prevent accidental calls.

Ask your mobile carrier about unlocking your phone. Contact your mobile carrier to see if your phone can be unlocked to work with carriers in Aruba. Depending on your phone company, you may have to break your current contract or pay an unlocking fee. Ask if your mobile device is compatible for use in foreign countries, which isn't the case for all phones.

Buy an unlocked phone that is compatible with international networks. Visit a cellular boutique to find an inexpensive, unlocked phone to travel with. You can also look at online classified ads to find a second-hand unlocked phone. If you buy a used phone, be sure to test it before completing the purchase to make sure it works.

Purchase a prepaid local SIM card for lower calling rates. Visit an electronics store in Aruba or inquire with local residents about where to purchase a prepaid SIM card. You can also order one online before you travel to ensure that you will have in when you arrive in Aruba. Note that you will have to use a new number with this option. Note that friends or family calling you from your home country will pay for an international call.