Curacao
Description
Historians still contend over which European adventurer first spied the largest island in the former Netherlands Antilles. Some historians claim the honor for Alonzo de Ojeda; other historians champion Amerigo Vespucci. Little does it matter; today's travelers are content to bask beneath sunny skies cooled by the trade winds. Lying some 40 miles off Venezuela, Curaçao boasts a landscape that is dramatic, stark, and volcanic. In contrast, Willemstad, the capital, seems a cozy Dutch haven with its neat row houses. And while those gabled and tiled roofs illustrate the island's heritage, the bright, pastel houses speak pure Caribbean. Islanders themselves reflect this same colorful contrast: over 50 different nationalities have come to call Curaçao their home.
Points of Interest
- Willemstad
- Fort Amsterdam
- Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge
- National Park
- Hato Caves
- Ostrich Farm
- Snorkeling
- Beaches
More about Curacao Points of Interest
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Willemstad -
This charming capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boasting a rich and diverse history and culture, its traditional Dutch architecture has been infused with the color and spirit of the Caribbean.
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Fort Amsterdam -
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important of the island's eight forts, it is now home to the Governor's Palace, a 1769 Dutch Reformed Church, and a cannonball forever embedded in the southwest wall.
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Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge -
Constructed in 1888, and nicknamed the "Swinging Old Lady," this bridge swings open to allow ships to access the bay. Recently restored, it connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts.
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National Park -
Curaçao's parks are unforgettable, from the diverse flora and fauna of Christoffel National Park, to the caverns and majestic sea cliffs of Boka Tabla.
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Hato Caves -
Once a hiding place for escaped slaves, these historic caves formed out of limestone cliffs are still evolving. Tour the underground caverns and view massive stalactites and ancient cave drawings.
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Ostrich Farm -
Experience a unique opportunity to get up-close and personal with these fascinating birds. A safari truck takes you through the corrals where you can touch and feed these feathered friends.
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Snorkeling -
Descend into the tranquil Caribbean waters of Caracas Bay where the nearly 50-year-old Sunken Tugboat, a popular underwater treasure, and a variety of unusual crustaceans and colorful fish await.
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Beaches -
Visit one of the many local beaches.
Best of Curacao: Hato Caves, Willemstad & Curacao Museum
Moderate Activity
From $69.95
Curacao Highlights & Beach Break
Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity
From $64.95
National Park, Museum & Scenic Country Drive
Easy Activity
From $59.95
Hato Caves, Willemstad, Museum & Ship Lunch Break
Moderate Activity
From $84.95
Historical City, Hato Cave & Beach
Moderate Activity
From $79.95
Willemstad Trolley Train Historic Tour
Easy Activity
From $44.95
Local Connections: Ostrich Farm, Workshop & Scenic Drive with Local Artist
Easy Activity
From $59.95
A Taste of Curacao
Moderate Activity
From $89.95
Curacao Cocktails with Amazing Views
Easy Activity
From $79.95
Scenic Drive, Distillery & Aloe Vera Farm
Moderate Activity
From $49.95
Made in Curacao
Moderate Activity
From $84.95
West Side Scenic Drive & Beach Break
Moderate Activity
From $54.95
Curacao Beach Tropical Express
Moderate Activity
From $69.95
Hato Caves & Mambo Beach
Moderate Activity
From $79.95
Hato Caves & Willemstad Walking Tour
Moderate Activity
From $59.95
Capital Highlights by Electric Bike
Strenuous Activity
From $54.95
Seaworld Explorer Semi-Sub & Scenic Drive
Easy Activity
From $64.95
Dolphin Encounter
Easy Activity
From $179.95
Dolphin Swim
Moderate Activity
From $309.95
Sunken Tugboat & Underwater Marine Park Snorkel
Moderate Activity, Includes snack
From $74.95
Ultimate Island, Beach & Turtle Snorkel with Lunch
Moderate Activity, Includes meal
From $109.95