Christoffelpark - national park of Curacao
Christoffelpark (founded in 1978 and consists of 3 former plantations: Plantage Savonet, Plantage Zorgvlied and Plantage Zevenbergen) is the largest national park of Curacao and a must see for everyone. The park has a rich variety of local flora and fauna. Nature lovers will find the park teeming with local birds and plants, including species, which are not easily seen elsewhere on the island.
The vegetation of the island is characterised by its adaptation to the dry and windy climatic conditions. Total vascular flora amounts to about 450 species. Species composition differs significantly between the different geological formations and Stoffers described a dozen different vegetation types for the island. Vegetation's of the Curaçao Lava Formation are characterised as largely deciduous vegetation's in which trees such as Bursera bonairiensis, Bourreria succulenta, Caesalpinia coriaria, Cordia alba, Hematoxylon brasiletto, Randia aculeata and Malpighia glabra are common.
But there is more..
Besides natural riches the park also offer much in the way of culture and history. Plantation Savonet is one of the earliest plantations to be set up on the island and is one of the most complete plantation complexes with structures including the plantation house, store houses, dams, wells and much more, it includes the Museum Savonet.
Visiting the park
All in all visitors will need a minimum of 1 day to explore all attractions of the park. At the front desk our personnel give all the information about possibilities and tours. Driving through the park on the paved routes with your own car is one of the possibilities as is hiking on of the selected trails. To get better image of the park and its natural resources we suggest you participate in one of the guided trips offered almost daily.
Climb the Christoffel Mountain with a guide
It's possible to go with a guide if you want more information about the area, or want to make sure you climb will be as safe as possible with the help of a guide. Especially for small groups (2-6 persons) who want a guide they offer this guided trip every Sunday morning and on request. Rates are USD 30 (approx. €28,40) per person. Kids under 6 years go for free.
Pickup Safari
Extensive 4-hour safari tour with one of our guides in the back of one of our trucks/land cruisers. Enjoy the wind in your hair and a full view of the nature in the park. You'll visit both sides of the park and our guide gives you information about the flora and fauna, geology and cultural and historical artifacts.
Deer Spotting Sunset Tours
They will take you to the Northern side of the park in our land cruiser and attempt to spot the White-tailed deer and other animals during the trip, by visiting the deer watching tower and looking for other strategic points to scan the surroundings. Sunset gives the park a etheric glow making sure the trip is an unforgettable experience. To keep the group small: Reservations are required!
Contact Stichting CARMABI
Christoffelpark
Bandabou, Curaçao
Opening Hours:
Mondays to Saturdays: 07.30 – 16.00 (No admittance afte 14.30)
Sundays: 06.00 AM – 15.00 (No admittance afte 13.30)
Fees
USD 12 (approx. €11,36) for adults
USD 4,50 (approx. €4,26) for children (6 - 11)
Free for children under 6 years old.
Combination tickets for Christoffelpark and Savonet Museum: USD 16 (approx. €15,15), available till 11:00am.
