Best Hiking Trails in Curaçao

Marion van Zijl
07 juni 2025

Curaçao is more than just turquoise waters and colorful towns — it’s also a fantastic destination for hiking lovers. Whether you're into casual coastal walks or more challenging climbs, the island offers a variety of hiking trails with diverse scenery, wildlife, and difficulty levels.

Here’s your guide to the best hiking routes across the island, including what to expect and how to prepare.


1. Tugboat & Directors Bay Trail – Easy

Located on the southeastern coast of the island near Caracasbaai, this scenic trail connects Tugboat Beach with Directeursbaai.

  • Distance: ~3 km (round trip)

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Highlights: Ocean views, snorkeling spots, historic WWII watchtower ruins

  • Suitable for: Beginners, families, or anyone looking for a short and beautiful coastal walk

You can start at Tugboat Beach, enjoy a swim or snorkel, then hike along the coast to the quiet and scenic Directeursbaai.


2. Jan Thiel Salt Pans (Zoutpannen) – Easy to Moderate

Just minutes from Casa Lapalapa 19, the Zoutpannen van Jan Thiel is a must-do for early morning or sunset walks.

  • Distance: Flexible (2–8 km depending on route)

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some rocky terrain)

  • Highlights: Flamingos, salt flats, ocean views, historic ruins

  • Suitable for: All levels, including kids

The terrain is flat but dry and can be uneven in places. Bring good shoes and a camera — the scenery is unique and peaceful.


3. Christoffelberg (Mt. Christoffel) – Challenging

The crown jewel of Curaçao hikes, Christoffelberg is the island’s highest point at 372 meters and located inside Christoffel National Park.

  • Distance: ~3.7 km round trip

  • Difficulty: Challenging (especially the last 30 minutes)

  • Highlights: 360° views of the island, rare flora and fauna, caves

  • Start time: Before 10:00 AM (latest allowed entry)

  • Entrance fee: ANG 25 (~$14 USD) per person

This hike is not recommended during midday due to the heat. You must start early and be in good physical condition. The steep, rocky ascent near the top involves using your hands for balance and grip.


4. Christoffel National Park – Other Trails – Moderate

Not up for the summit? Christoffel Park offers several easier trails, such as:

  • Zorgvlied Trail – 2.5 km, moderate, scenic and shaded

  • Boka Grandi Trail – Coastal hike with sea views and rock formations

  • Orchid Trail – Best from February to April when the orchids bloom

Entry to the park covers access to all trails.


5. Kokomo Beach to Vaersenbaai Trail – Moderate

This lesser-known coastal trail starts near Kokomo Beach and stretches westward along the rocky coastline.

  • Distance: ~4–5 km

  • Difficulty: Moderate (uneven terrain, some scrambling)

  • Highlights: Cliffs, sea views, quiet coves

  • Tip: End your hike with a dip at Kokomo Beach and a smoothie at the beach bar

Wear solid shoes — the rocks can be sharp and unstable.


6. Shete Boka National Park Trails – Moderate

Combine hiking with dramatic coastal scenery at Shete Boka, located next to Christoffel Park.

  • Distance: Multiple short trails (1–3 km)

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

  • Highlights: Sea caves, crashing waves, blowholes

  • Entrance fee: ANG 20 (~$11 USD)

A must-see spot for photographers and nature lovers. The Boka Pistol and Boka Tabla areas are especially impressive.


7. Playa Lagun to Playa Jeremi – Moderate

On the west side of the island, hike between two stunning beaches via rocky paths and cliffside trails.

  • Distance: ~2.5 km one way

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Highlights: Caribbean Sea views, possible iguana sightings, end at the beach

  • Tip: Pack snorkeling gear — both beaches offer clear waters and fish


Safety Tips & Essentials for Hiking in Curaçao

Wear sunscreen – The Caribbean sun is strong, even in the early morning.
Bring plenty of water – At least 1 liter per person, more for longer trails.
Wear proper shoes – Many trails are rocky and uneven; flip-flops are not suitable.
Charge your phone – For GPS, photos, or emergencies.

Emergency Numbers:

  • Police & General Emergency: 911

  • Ambulance: 912

  • Fire Department: 911

  • Christoffel Park Office (during hike): +599 9 864 0363

Whether you’re hiking through salt flats near Casa Lapalapa 19, climbing Curaçao’s highest peak, or wandering rugged coastlines, the island’s trails offer something for every adventurer. Get out early, stay safe, and soak up the stunning natural beauty Curaçao has to offer