Home to some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, this vibrant island country under the Kingdom of the Netherlands has a plethora of experiences to offer. The lively beaches are sure to enthral any water-lover. A number of adventure sports like paddle-boarding and windsurfing make the place a thrill seeker’s paradise. The rich local cuisine, firmly rooted in the country’s past, is sure to set you off on an epicurean voyage. A visit to the historic district of Willemstad, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, offers a window to witness how vestiges of the past and modernity co-exist in the small town.
This 4-day itinerary takes you on an experiential rollercoaster, packaging a wide array of activities into one list.
Day 1: Go For Art Walks In Willemstad
Begin your tour in the heart of the island— downtown Willemstad. A walk through the streets of Otrobanda places you within a space where art engulfs you. The murals, more than 60 in number, tell stories about the community and its history. Each step leads you further down the rabbit hole of culture. Make your way to Kura Hulanda village to rewind back to the 18th and 19th centuries as Dutch Colonial Caribbean buildings line the roads. The colourful streets, narrow alleys, and well-preserved buildings drown you in culture. The small village has hotels, bars, and restaurants where you can grab a bite before heading to Hirsch and Reich, a charming bookstore where you can get lost in stories. For history lovers, Museum Kura Hulanda presents chronicles of the origins of man, the African slave trade, and more.
Spend your evening in Gallery Alma Blou, the oldest and largest gallery in Curaçao, decorated with authentic Caribbean art. Curated by local artisans, it documents the cultural heritage of the island. If you’re someone who would rather create art than see it, then Tugboat Beach provides you with a chance to do just that. The workshops by the beach allow you to create your own art with driftwood, exposing you to local craft traditions. End the day at Mosacana Bar and Kitchen, where you can enjoy creatively crafted meals that put a spin on the local cuisine. You can get a taste of the nightlife at the bustling Jan Thiel Beach or at the casinos scattered across the capital.
Day 2: Take A Culinary Deep Dive At Plasa Bieu
An early head start for Day 2 will let you immerse yourself in the local life through a visit to the morning markets. Plan a visit to the Haria market on a Saturday morning or the Teguise market on a Sunday morning to sample local foods without spending a lot. You can also find traditional food at the Old Market (Plaza Bieu). The variety of soups available for tasting includes Kadushi soup, made from cactus on the island, and Giambo soup, which includes okra and meat. If you're a seafood lover, make sure to try the fish soups made with the fresh catches of the day. Vendors are often happy to share quick anecdotes, which makes the experience all the more engaging. While you’re there, you can also grab a few handcrafted souvenirs. The brightly painted, handmade Chichi dolls have great gifting potential. You can also purchase the Kadushi jewellery made from cactus fibres to flaunt in front of friends and family!
The afternoon can be spent exploring the legacy the Dutch colonists left behind. Take a walk past the Queen Emma Bridge to the colourful neighbourhoods of Marichi and Pietermaai, followed by lunch. Burn the extra calories gained by taking a 45-minute tour of the Hato caves, where the guide tells you the imaginative stories behind the rock formations. Embrace the Arawak roots of the island by visiting the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest continually running synagogue in the Americas. Let the casual seafood eateries at Punda offer the perfect, satisfying end to a tiresome day. While in Punda, you can also stop by Marshe Nobo to find a multi-level indoor market selling arts, crafts, and spices.
Day 3: Go Snorkelling At Cas Abao
With well-built road networks, renting a car may be the most convenient way to get around the island. Grab your snorkelling gear and swimsuits and drive to Cas Abao. A 45-minute drive from Willemsted, it will be one of the cleanest beaches you encounter. Ditch cafe-hopping for beach-hopping and make your way to Grote Knip next. If you’re fond of animals, you will love this island with a thriving pig population. It will be the most adorable adventure ever. End your snorkelling streak at Blauwe Kamer, a submerged cave popular amongst the locals. Driving back to Willemsted, don’t miss out on Shete Boka National Park. You can find three species of turtles nesting here.
If your heart craves the adrenaline rush, do try out windsurfing and paddleboarding. Underwater safaris on water scooters are also very accessible. With the endless potential Curaçao possesses, you can begin your day on a kayak and end it sailing into the sunset!
Day 4: Try Liquor Tasting At Landhuis Chobolobo
Let an eventful trip come to an end by relaxing your mind and body. Slow down your pace as you gear up to leave. Begin your day with a massage at a local spa. Head to Landhuis Chobolobo shortly after to visit the Curacao Liqueur Distillery. Experience the distillation process of the Genuine Curaçao Liqueur and taste-test different cocktails. You can also buy the liquor to carry a piece of Curaçao back with you. Consider having the locally produced ice cream and shopping for souvenirs before heading back. To conclude your vacation, relish the unique flavour of keshi yena, a must-have casserole made of spicy meat and cheese.
The Information
Best Time to Visit
Curaçao is a year-round destination. The period between January and April, however, is ideal for travel due to pleasant weather and cultural events. The months of February and March are particularly pleasant as the country comes alive during the Curaçao Carnival Period. The ‘Seú’ harvest parade is celebrated every April. Dating back to the slavery period, it reaffirms the connection to nature. The festivals are periods when the vibrancy of the local traditions is clearly visible.
How to get around
The easiest way to get to Curaçao is by air. Indian citizens who do not hold a valid Schengen visa require a short-stay Caribbean visa to visit the island. The Curaçao Digital Immigration Card has to be filled out online within seven days of departure. There are also cruise ships which sail to the island, which embark from ports in the US and the Caribbean. The official currency is the Caribbean Guilder. 1 XCG equals INR 52.51 as per current exchange rates.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best time to visit Curaçao?
The best time to visit Curaçao is between January and April when the weather is pleasant and cultural events such as the Curaçao Carnival and Seú Harvest Parade take place.
Q2. How many days are enough to explore Curaçao?
A 4-day trip is ideal for experiencing Curaçao’s highlights, including Willemstad’s heritage sites, local cuisine, beaches, water sports, and cultural attractions.
Q3. What are the must-visit beaches in Curaçao?
Some of the most popular beaches in Curaçao include Cas Abao, Grote Knip, Jan Thiel Beach, and Tugboat Beach, known for their clear waters and excellent snorkelling opportunities.
Q4. Do Indian travellers need a visa to visit Curaçao?
Indian citizens who do not hold a valid Schengen visa generally need a short-stay Caribbean visa to enter Curaçao. Travellers must also complete the Curaçao Digital Immigration Card before departure.
Q5. What are the top things to do in Curaçao?
Visitors can explore Willemstad’s colourful streets, snorkel at Cas Abao, visit the Hato Caves, enjoy local cuisine at Plasa Bieu, discover Caribbean art galleries, and tour the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery.
