Curaçao

Curaçao is part of the Dutch Antilles in the southern Caribbean. The largest of the Antillean islands, Curaçao has a population of approximately 150,000 people. The main city of Willemstad is a thriving well-developed port. The historic city centre with its many 17th and 18th century Dutch Colonial buildings has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Numerous bars, restaurants and shops give the town a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

The coastline is dotted with discreet coves and some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, many of which are totally undeveloped. There are two national parks that attract ornithologist from around the world. Curaçao is an ideal destination for those wanting to relax and get away from it all and still have the option of numerous activities.

Time

Curaçao is 4 hours behind GMT.

Currency

Netherlands Antilles Guilder (NAG)

Euros, GBP & USD can be changed or USD traveller's cheques can be exchanged. You can spend USD dollars everywhere, but will likely receive your change in guilders.

There are ATM’s in Willemstaad and ATMs close to the main resorts in the south. If staying in the north of the island without transport, please plan accordingly for cash. All resorts and dive centres accept payment for services at the end of your stay on credit cards.

Language

Dutch is the official language, but English and Spanish are also spoken as well as their own unique blend, Papiamento.

Climate

Outside the hurricane belt, the annual rainfall is very low. Average temperature annually is 27.5°C. July/August is the hottest period reaching up to 30°C. Normally warm and humid with a fairly constant, cooling sea breeze.

Car Hire

One of the best ways to enjoy Curaçao is to hire a vehicle locally. There are a finite number of vehicles available for rental in Curaçao. Should you be travelling over a peak period, you should consider pre-booking your vehicle prior to departure.

Activities

The main attraction for most visitors to Curaçao is the water sports. There are over 100 dive sites around the island and the fringing reef provides fantastic snorkelling. Conditions for sailing and windsurfing are excellent and boats are available for private charters.

There are scenic hiking trails in the Christoffel and Shete Boca National Parks. The Christoffel National Park covers 4,500 acres and is home to the Hato Caves, where centuries old stalagmites and stalactites are still being formed.

Other outdoor activities include horse riding, canoe safaris and golf to name but a few. There are numerous well run Casinos, bars and restaurants. Wherever you go, you are likely to find Salsa or some of the other local forms of dancing on offer.

There are numerous bars and restaurants and eight museums including the Maritime Museum and the Kura Hulanda, which documents the slave trade. All these make Curaçao a great all round holiday destination for divers and non-divers alike.

Flights

Flights are with KLM via Amsterdam.

Regional Departures from London Heathrow & City, Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle, Durham, Humberside, Norwich International, Cardiff - supplement may apply. The Amsterdam schedule to Bonaire or Curaçao does not always allow for convenient connection times on every single departure - please enquire for a quote.

Twin centres: We can easily add an internal flight from Bonaire to Curaçao, or vice versa.

Departure tax: If departing on an international flight on KLM, this is currently included in your ticket.

Visas

Entry requirements vary from country to country, and it’s important to check the latest visa information well before you travel. Some destinations may allow visa-free entry for a limited period, while others require an eVisa or a visa obtained in advance. To ensure you have the correct documentation for your trip, we recommend checking the official advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or contacting the relevant country’s embassy or consulate. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

Passports

Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for the full duration of your trip and meets the entry requirements of your destination. Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date, while others may have different rules. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, visit the UK Government’s passport guidance or the official travel advice pages for your destination. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

If you’re planning to travel to or via an EU country (with certain exceptions) your UK passport must meet two key requirements, it must be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country and it must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date.

Vaccinations & Health Advice

Health and vaccination requirements differ depending on where you're travelling. Some destinations may require proof of specific vaccinations or recommend certain precautions to protect your wellbeing.

We’re not qualified to provide you with specific advice on vaccinations and strongly recommend that you contact your healthcare professional before you travel to discuss the inoculations you may need to consider.

For trusted guidance on health and vaccination advice, refer to the NHS Travel Vaccination Advice, Masta Travel Health or Travel Health Pro websites.