Of the many delights of Curaçao, there are all types of nature to discover. The island’s diverse terrain and pristine coral make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a range of distinctive experiences on land and water. Check out dozens of the most vibrant dive sites in the Caribbean Ocean. Hike to the highest point in the Dutch ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). Bike through historic salt flats. And don’t worry, sun-worshippers—Curaçao also has 35 stunning beaches, many of which are in private coves. Read on to learn how the island sets itself apart as a dreamy adventure destination.
Hike to the top of Mt Christoffel
Mt Christoffel in Curaçao
Courtesy of the Curaçao Tourist Board
Christoffelpark is the largest and most biodiverse national park in Curaçao—and home to Mt Christoffel, the highest point in the Dutch Caribbean. The peak is a short but satisfying challenge at more than 1,200 feet (375 meters) tall. Start the climb from the visitor’s center or drive your car to the foot of the mountain to shave an hour off the hike. Along the trail, look for plants and animals that aren’t easy to find anywhere else on the island, including wild orchids and the rare native barn owl. At the summit, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding greenery and ocean.
Hiking in Curaçao
Courtesy of the Curaçao Tourist Board
Bike through salt flats
Join WannaBike on a local cycling tour of Curaçao’s most stunning and fascinating regions that lie off the beaten path as you discover the island’s rich history. During the Boca St. Michiel/Malpais itinerary, begin in St. Michiel—an idyllic, traditional fishing village with an enchanting beach—before heading to the salt flats once used by Dutch colonists. Continue to Malpais, a lush nature reserve where (with some luck) you’ll spot the Curaçao white-tailed deer, of which there are only about 250 left. Set on diverse terrain, the route is a favorite of mountain bikers.
Dive your way around the island
Scuba diving in Curaçao
Courtesy of the Curaçao Tourist Board
With more than 70 dive sites, crystal blue water, vibrant coral, and unique biodiversity, Curaçao is a haven for scuba divers. Located outside the hurricane belt, the island has more dive-friendly days, clear visibility, and healthy marine life. When it comes to dive sites, divers can expect a little of everything, including reefs, wrecks (including the Superior Producer, one of the Caribbean’s most popular), and walls—even shore diving is super popular here. Don’t go to bed early; some night dives have a twist with UV dive lights and mask filters that give some critters and corals a fluorescent flow.
Go rock climbing on Tafelberg Mountain
One of the best—and most scenic—spots for rock climbing in the Caribbean is Tafelberg Mountain. Located on the historic Santa Barbara plantation, the jagged limestone peak is accessible at four different points with routes up to 164 feet high (50 meters), depending on your athletic ability. From the top, pause to soak up panoramic views of the island and sparkling water beyond. Rock Climbing Curaçao offers rock climbing, via ferrata, and hiking tours at three other locations, including Roi Rincon, Piscadera, and Fort Beekenburg, a rocky outcrop next to Caracas Bay with an 18th-century fort.
An ATV Tour in Curaçao
Courtesy of the Curaçao Tourist Board
Check out the Voodoo and Hato caves
Hop in an ATV or buggy to more easily explore the natural beauty of Curaçao’s rugged west side. On the four-hour tour, you’ll see highlights in Shete Boka National Park, including the famous Boka Tabla, an underground cavern that waves crash into, creating a blowhole effect. Continue to the mysterious Voodoo Cave and Hato Caves, filled with ancient stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a colony of harmless fruit bats. Later, get your adrenaline pumping while speeding through the sandy plains of San Pedro on your way to Rincon Park, a favorite destination of birdwatchers.
