Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
At the top, you will have fabulous views of the western end of the island.
(Bring snacks and plenty of water.)
WARNING:
Watch for manchineel trees along the
trails, and do not touch their leaves or fruit, which
cause painful blisters on the skin. Recognize them
by the shiny leaves and small apple-like fruit.
Pick up maps, brochures, and guide books at the front entrance, then
choose a drive (four-wheel-drive vehicles are suggested), hike, or tour to
match your interests and allocated time, as well as your physical endur-
ance. The guided walks at dawn and dusk are especially delightful
because the small Curaçao deer and other wildlife are out looking for food
at those times.
SNAKES:
Two types of snake live in the park - the
whipsnake or meadow snake, and the minute silver
snake. Both are harmless.
The blue
Savonet route
leads out to the windward coast, where you can
see Indian rock drawings that were made hundreds of years ago and
explore a couple of caves carved into the cliffs. Follow the green route west
from the Savonet Museum past the coral-and-rock ruins of the Zorgvlied
plantation, where you can pick up the red hiking trail to the top of
Christoffelberg.
The yellow
Zevenbergen route
is a lovely ride through the countryside,
past orchid-studded hills with far-reaching vistas. It begins at Piedra de
Monton (Mountain of Rocks). Former slaves believed that they could fly
back to Africa if they deprived themselves of salted foods and stood at the
top of Piedra de Monton. Stops along the route include Santa Martha Baai
and the windy Seru Bientu. A short hiking path leads to the top of Bientu,
where you will have striking vistas of the far western tip of the island.
The park is open to the public, Monday-Saturday, 8 am-4 pm, Sunday,
6 am-3 pm. Call for information about tours, special events, and park
news.
864-0363.
Tour Guides
Rancho Alfin
(
864-0535) conducts tours by horseback and
mountain bike;
Dutch Dream
(
864-7377) and
Does Travel &
Cadushi Tours
(
461-1626) have jeep and walking tours of the
park. A walking tour is conducted by park rangers at 10 am on
Fridays (
864-0363).
Search WWH ::
Custom Search