Top Curacao Outdoor Activities

My wife and I recently (June) stayed at Sandals in Curacao. We wanted to explore the island and were going to rent a car but they were sold out. We went online and found a private tour where you could create your day long custom tour. My wife and I wanted to explore Willemstad, snorkel with a chance to witness sea turtles, a nice waterside place to eat seafood and places to make photo memories. Well, we could not have imagined what was ahead when we were picked up in our own private van with Alberto at the helm and Anita providing the color and background to our journey. We learned Anita had come from the Netherland over 25 years ago and Alberto was born and raised on the island. The both of them were so nice and inviting and Anita's knowledge was willingly shared and my wife and I learned so much history and how life is on the island. Our first stop was Willemstad and the beautiful colorful buildings and Queen Emma Bridge. We learned on a walking tour about the history of the government and parliamentary buildings. Anita left us for a bit so we could explore and shop. We boarded our van for a tour through the city's neighborhoods with Anita giving us background on the religious, cultural and lifestyle of folks on the island. We then had a stop at the Flamingo sanctuary where we were able to see Flamingos in the wild! In communication before our excursion we had asked to go to a spot where we had the best chance of seeing Sea Turtles. Well, it just so happens Anita is a volunteer with the Island's Sea Turtle conservation program. She brought us to Daaibooi Baai (Bay). Anita explained if she is able, (meaning small groups, small van tours) she brings guests to this little beach. She says it's more locals and we'd have a great chance at seeing turtles. My wife and I donned our gear and walked towards the shore. People were standing in the water looking for turtles. Anita spotted one right away just feet away from several people who didn't see it. Clearly Anita knew what she was looking for. After about a half hour of seeing a few colorful fish along the rocks, my wife and I headed back to shore feeling that seeing a turtle in person underwater would have to wait. As I approached the shore I stood up and took my mask off when my wife poked at me. There was a green turtle who had come up from behind us. I put my mask on and we were able to swim with the beautiful creature before it disappeared into darker water. Woo Hoo! We then stopped at Christoffel National Park and Plantation Knip. We had the pleasure to meet Anita's son who is a Park Ranger! Shete Boka National Park was our next stop where you can see waves crashing a spouting skyward and a natural bridge that crosses the jagged, rocky shore. We next headed for lunch. As I communicated with a representative of Samurai tours prior to tour day, my wife and I wanted some local seafood on the water. Anita, did not disappoint. We stopped at West Punt and Playa Forti, an old fort now a restaurant. We were escorted to our reserved table for an amazing lunch and local cliff divers! After lunch we made our way back to our resort and Alberto was amazing at stopping or slowing so we could photo sites along the way1 Our last stop was a stop at Senior&CO Curacao distillery and some wonderful samples. After 8 hours that passed like 20 minutes, we were back at our resort thanking Anita and Alberto for a most unforgettable day! Processing this journey days later we are grateful for such an opportunity we had. If this is indicative of all Samurai tours, you won't be disappointed.

This was a fun and unique experience. The main challenges to be aware of would be if someone has claustrophobia, ear issues when it comes to pressure from elevated heights and depths and being self aware of yourself to be able to communicate with the divers when you need assistance with more oxygen or the pressure is too much or your just not feeling well even. Overall, everyone was friendly and patient. You watch a informational/ safety video in advance. The photo package wasn't very expensive. There's a bar where you can get non alcoholic and alcoholic drinks for a cost, not included. And you can also arrange transportation if you don't have a rental. That cost is a bit expensive. Also, there are some medical instances that may prevent you from participating so that is something also to make note of before booking.

My wife and I enjoyed every single second of this ATV excursion. Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about his role, his country, and its culture. His enthusiasm made the experience even more special. What impressed us most was how dedicated the team was to ensuring everyone had a great time. Regardless of the group size or any unexpected issues that arose, they never let anything take away from the experience. Their professionalism and positive attitude truly stood out. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will always remember. We greatly appreciate the dedication, effort, and care that went into making this tour so enjoyable. Thank you for creating memories that will last a lifetime! – Darrin & Jess

Our experience was great and our tour guide was friendly, helpful, and amazing. He first provided safety driving protocols and also provided us with scarves and eyewear. The scarves we did purchase. we traveled along The roads of Curacao, visited historic sites and also did a tour of a cave and went to the beach as well. He was very friendly took photos of us without us asking and also had water and snacks throughout the way. this was probably the best time on our trip. money well spent. will definitely do this tour again if I ever come back, 10 out of 10, will recommend.

The crew was friendly, engaging and welcoming. Crew members assisted passengers on and off the boat and prioritized safety. Also, the lite bites were tasty and drinks were plentiful. I would definitely recommend this excursion, you will enjoy the beautiful sunset!

THIS was a fun day!!! Had so much fun making new foods that I hadn’t made before and tasting new foods I didn’t have a chance to try. My wife who doesn’t cook at all had the best time actually making food. I would fully recommend this to anyone whether they be just foodie eaters but especially to those who like me like the challenge of cooking something new. Helmi is a wonderful host and she will entertain you and teach you something new.

Our tour started outside of the security gate 2 at the Mega Pier and we saw the Tuk Tuks parked across the street. Our guide was Raymond and Everybody Loves Raymond! Very knowledgeable of Curacao history. We saw all the local art and took lots of pictures.

This tour was very educational. I enjoyed learning about the country. I also enjoyed the tour guides multi-lingual ability. They made everyone on the tour feel comfortable. The stop we made to eat was absolutely delicious local food was the highlight of my entire trip! I stayed in a resort and there was no local cuisine.