Wildlife spotting in Curaçao

Curaçao, a country of the Netherlands Antilles, is located in the southern Caribbean Sea and in the Dutch Caribbean. It is located about 65 kilometers north of the coast of Venezuela. On the island, expect exotic animals.

Curacao’s semi-arid climate has prevented many tropical bird species, mammals and lizards associated with rainforests from living there. Countless species of hummingbirds and banana chicks, as well as greater terns and egrets and even flamingos are at home in Curaçao. Curaçao is home to the Trupial, a black bird with a bright orange underbelly, white spots and white wings. The mockingbird is called Chuchubi (Papiamentu) and has a long, white-gray tail with a gray back. The brown pelican with the large bill, which feeds on coastal fish, can also be found on the island. There are many other seabirds, including large cormorants and gulls.

The white-tailed deer is Curaçao’s most prominent animal, aside from field mice, small rabbits and cave bats. This deer is closely related to the American white-tailed deer or Virginia deer. It is found throughout North America, Central America, the Caribbean and even Bolivia. The deer can grow two feet long and three feet tall, and can weigh up to 300 pounds. It is the only deer species found on the island. It has been protected since 1926 and about 200 of them live on Curaçao. You can find them in many places on the island, especially in Christoffel Park on the west side, where 70% of their herd lives. According to archaeologists, the deer was brought to Curaçao from South America by the Arawaks, the original inhabitants.

We will highlight our favorite wildlife you can spot on the island.

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    Iguanas

    The island is home to several species of iguanas, including a light-colored specimen with shimmering aqua on its flanks and belly. They lie in the sun all over the island. Curaçao’s iguanas are a wonderful attraction. But, unlike other islands, they are still hunted for food. Sea turtles nest in a number of coves along the west coast of the island. Park rangers can guide you to visit these turtles, which are protected in Shete Boka Park.

    Iguanas love the dry-wet climate. They love Curaçao violin. They can be found almost everywhere. They can be found along the side of the road or on the roadsides. Many were unfortunately run over. The iguana population is so large that locals even flock to the area to hunt them and make delicious iguana soup from them. Who doesn’t want to see a variety of iguanas? This iguana stops once at the Bahia Hotel and then sits on the terrace of the restaurant. The iguanas can be found both under the tables and in the trees. But it’s not too late. The iguana, which is the second laziest animal in terms of laziness after the sloth. They are also fed in the restaurant, so they are represented as much as possible.

    iguana Curacao

    Flamingos

    Flamingos can also be found on Curacao. They are tall and thin with a long neck, long legs, and pink plumage. Upright Flamingos can reach 90 cm to 155 cm in height. The neck and legs of males are larger than those of females, and carotenoid absorption is what gives the plumage its pink color. These carotenoids are mainly used in planktonic algae. These carotenoids can be converted by the Flamingo organism using enzymes located in the liver. This results in many pigments, including canthaxanthin, being absorbed into the skin and feathers of adult flamingos. Young birds develop gray plumage, with very little or no pink pigmentation.

    Although flamingos can swim, they are not very good swimmers. They can even swim in deeper water because of her long legs. They keep their necks extended and the wings are beaten quickly and often.

    Did you know that their flying speed can reach 50-60 km/h? Flamingos often make energy-saving V-formations in groups. Some walking steps can be done before and after landing.

    Hummingbirds

    We love these amazing creatures. The hummingbird does this at a high frequency, 40 to 50 wing beats per minute. They can also fly with their movable wings to get nectar. You can fly sideways or backwards. Hummingbirds have a hand larger than their upper and lower arms, which is in stark contrast to other bird species. The hummingbird can fly in almost any position imaginable thanks to this and extreme dexterity in its elbow and shoulder. This costs the hummingbird less than 25% of its total weight. Did you know they like yellow and reddish flowers?

    hummingbird in curacao
    kura-botanica-logo.png
    Spread over an eight-block area, this property offers a unique luxury experience in a botanical and tranquil retreat, offering complete privacy and intimacy.
    Ideal for Business people, Couples or Lovers who need a break

    Turtles

    Five of the seven species of turtles are found in the oceans around Curaçao. The turtles you might see are:

    – The Green Turtle
    – The false hawksbill turtle
    – The leatherback turtle
    – The Hawksbill tortoise

    Be careful with these creatures as they are all endangered. The leatherback turtle is a deep-sea species that was rarely seen. However, the other three species can be observed while snorkeling or diving. The largest turtle of the above mirrors will be: The endangered hawksbill turtle which can reach 90 cm in length and weigh up to 75 kg.

    turtle curacao

    Kura Botanica Hotel Image Gallery

    Kura Botanica Hotel
    4.9
    Based on 28 reviews
    powered by Google
    Bas SmitBas Smit
    17:10 26 Sep 23
    It is a beautiful hotel with a perfect manager..
    Jonathan MarquesJonathan Marques
    23:23 17 Sep 23
    Hotel with a beautiful garden, in the middle of a historic village. The service from the staff has always been friendly and multilingual. The room we stayed in was new and the bed was excellent!However, some problems were observed. They didn't replace the amenities for our last night, nor did they even collect a towel that was on the floor.The shower is also not separated from the rest of the bathroom, there is no curtain or shower stall which makes the bathroom wet. There was also a lack of support for soap and shampoo, which are on the floor.The parking lot is far away and you need to either walk with your bags or take your car close to the entrance and then return to the parking lot.But the worst thing for me was the breakfast. it is served in another hotel and there is no variety, it doesn't change between days, it is very simple and contained. You can just have a coffee and a juice and not repeat it. On the first day we were treated very poorly, even harshly, which made us not want to go back the next day.
    Andre AmmerlaanAndre Ammerlaan
    18:31 03 Sep 23
    It was wonderful, super beautiful location.The beds sleep wonderfully, we have completely relaxed.It is a piece of oasis in the middle of the city.So many beautiful things to see and do within walking distance.The staff was super friendly😀
    Marcelo FalkMarcelo Falk
    23:25 18 Aug 23
    Peter StephensonPeter Stephenson
    21:44 14 Aug 23
    Loving the hotel. Great location.
    Bart de JongBart de Jong
    22:03 21 Jul 23
    Great place to stay. Renovated only recently and rooms are excellent. Staff is very helpful and polite. Pool is a bit small but perfect to relax at the end of day. Or whenever you start your day later.Breakfast is in collaboration with a place 1min away and is taken good care off. Choices and taste are overall just good.They did tell Kura B is planning to build their own kitchen in the near future. But the 1min (literally) walk shouldn't trouble you.
    Travis AnthonyTravis Anthony
    17:43 02 Jul 23
    We are locals and wanted a relaxing escape from our usual routine. This place was extremely relaxing, with a beautiful pool surrounded by large trees to provide a great mix of shade and sun. The hotel is very well located with many great restaurants within a few minutes walk. The rooms are very well designed for an authentic Curacao experience. We would highly recommend a stay to both couples as to individuals visiting Curacao.
    naiomi sapphirenaiomi sapphire
    08:17 16 Jun 23
    I think this is best hotel in Curaçao!It is sweet and charming, the rooms are very clean and well kept. It is comprised of several buildings within the property. Vivid colours both inside and outside of the rooms. Lots of lush foliage and very serene, literally perfect for retreating from busyness and embracing relaxation.It’s tucked in Kura Hulanda village so there’s plenty to do and eat without walking more than 10 minutes but I recommend exploring nearby neighbourhoods like Otrabanda (where the hotel is), Punda and Pietermaai which are all walking distanceWhat’s most memorable is the keen hospitality of the KB team. I felt welcomed throughout the duration of my stay, not just upon arrival. They happily answered every question I had and was consistently kind and helpful.Janette, Teresa, Disney, Darrel, Rosalita, and the young lady w the cute headscarf that complimented my crocs - you guys are amazing!My only regret is leaving such a good review bc now I risk KB not being available when I return!
    Yannick Van Der MeirenYannick Van Der Meiren
    16:36 06 Jan 23
    What a great holiday we had here!Very new boutique hotel where nothing is too much to ask.A super service with people who do everything they can to make your holiday the best!Rooms are very nice, modern and spacious!Location is perfect to stay away from the hustle and bustle, but still be close to the center.The district is in full bloom and is very pleasant to be in. A drink, a snack in a quiet setting where most tourists have not yet found their way. A gem!Breakfast at Maira's kitchen was great!Thank you to all staff! You make the experience and trip even more beautiful.GreetingsKaren and Yannick
    Komplayt KinderopvangKomplayt Kinderopvang
    16:24 31 Dec 22
    We had a wonderful stay at Kura Botanica! It just opened, everything is new, thought about and the service is nothing short of amazing!It is beautifully situated in the middle of Willemstad, close to the Pontjesbrug, in a neighborhood that exudes and exudes innovation. The people are fantastic, the breakfast at Maira delicious. We would like to come back soon!Amelia and Martin
    ma noma no
    21:48 02 Dec 22
    The staff was verry nice and gave good advice. and the hotel was verry nice and clean. Francien HenriettaRocio Disney Derrel and Jeanette, thanks for the all the service. See your all next year....... B13.....
    Lars de BrabanderLars de Brabander
    20:20 26 Oct 22
    This fully renewed boutique hotel is truly a beauty. Completely renovated, it lies in historic Willemstad on one minute walking distance of the Anna Bay and very close to some of the nicest beaches in Curacao
    Thays VidalThays Vidal
    23:08 11 Sep 22
    After the renovation, this luxury hotel is gonna be a huge success 🙌Friendly staff and nice location.
    Bas SmitBas Smit
    17:10 26 Sep 23
    It is a beautiful hotel with a perfect manager..
    Jonathan MarquesJonathan Marques
    23:23 17 Sep 23
    Hotel with a beautiful garden, in the middle of a historic village. The service from the staff has always been friendly and multilingual. The room we stayed in was new and the bed was excellent!However, some problems were observed. They didn't replace the amenities for our last night, nor did they even collect a towel that was on the floor.The shower is also not separated from the rest of the bathroom, there is no curtain or shower stall which makes the bathroom wet. There was also a lack of support for soap and shampoo, which are on the floor.The parking lot is far away and you need to either walk with your bags or take your car close to the entrance and then return to the parking lot.But the worst thing for me was the breakfast. it is served in another hotel and there is no variety, it doesn't change between days, it is very simple and contained. You can just have a coffee and a juice and not repeat it. On the first day we were treated very poorly, even harshly, which made us not want to go back the next day.
    Andre AmmerlaanAndre Ammerlaan
    18:31 03 Sep 23
    It was wonderful, super beautiful location.The beds sleep wonderfully, we have completely relaxed.It is a piece of oasis in the middle of the city.So many beautiful things to see and do within walking distance.The staff was super friendly😀
    Marcelo FalkMarcelo Falk
    23:25 18 Aug 23
    Peter StephensonPeter Stephenson
    21:44 14 Aug 23
    Loving the hotel. Great location.
    Bart de JongBart de Jong
    22:03 21 Jul 23
    Great place to stay. Renovated only recently and rooms are excellent. Staff is very helpful and polite. Pool is a bit small but perfect to relax at the end of day. Or whenever you start your day later.Breakfast is in collaboration with a place 1min away and is taken good care off. Choices and taste are overall just good.They did tell Kura B is planning to build their own kitchen in the near future. But the 1min (literally) walk shouldn't trouble you.
    Travis AnthonyTravis Anthony
    17:43 02 Jul 23
    We are locals and wanted a relaxing escape from our usual routine. This place was extremely relaxing, with a beautiful pool surrounded by large trees to provide a great mix of shade and sun. The hotel is very well located with many great restaurants within a few minutes walk. The rooms are very well designed for an authentic Curacao experience. We would highly recommend a stay to both couples as to individuals visiting Curacao.
    naiomi sapphirenaiomi sapphire
    08:17 16 Jun 23
    I think this is best hotel in Curaçao!It is sweet and charming, the rooms are very clean and well kept. It is comprised of several buildings within the property. Vivid colours both inside and outside of the rooms. Lots of lush foliage and very serene, literally perfect for retreating from busyness and embracing relaxation.It’s tucked in Kura Hulanda village so there’s plenty to do and eat without walking more than 10 minutes but I recommend exploring nearby neighbourhoods like Otrabanda (where the hotel is), Punda and Pietermaai which are all walking distanceWhat’s most memorable is the keen hospitality of the KB team. I felt welcomed throughout the duration of my stay, not just upon arrival. They happily answered every question I had and was consistently kind and helpful.Janette, Teresa, Disney, Darrel, Rosalita, and the young lady w the cute headscarf that complimented my crocs - you guys are amazing!My only regret is leaving such a good review bc now I risk KB not being available when I return!
    Yannick Van Der MeirenYannick Van Der Meiren
    16:36 06 Jan 23
    What a great holiday we had here!Very new boutique hotel where nothing is too much to ask.A super service with people who do everything they can to make your holiday the best!Rooms are very nice, modern and spacious!Location is perfect to stay away from the hustle and bustle, but still be close to the center.The district is in full bloom and is very pleasant to be in. A drink, a snack in a quiet setting where most tourists have not yet found their way. A gem!Breakfast at Maira's kitchen was great!Thank you to all staff! You make the experience and trip even more beautiful.GreetingsKaren and Yannick
    Komplayt KinderopvangKomplayt Kinderopvang
    16:24 31 Dec 22
    We had a wonderful stay at Kura Botanica! It just opened, everything is new, thought about and the service is nothing short of amazing!It is beautifully situated in the middle of Willemstad, close to the Pontjesbrug, in a neighborhood that exudes and exudes innovation. The people are fantastic, the breakfast at Maira delicious. We would like to come back soon!Amelia and Martin
    ma noma no
    21:48 02 Dec 22
    The staff was verry nice and gave good advice. and the hotel was verry nice and clean. Francien HenriettaRocio Disney Derrel and Jeanette, thanks for the all the service. See your all next year....... B13.....
    Lars de BrabanderLars de Brabander
    20:20 26 Oct 22
    This fully renewed boutique hotel is truly a beauty. Completely renovated, it lies in historic Willemstad on one minute walking distance of the Anna Bay and very close to some of the nicest beaches in Curacao
    Thays VidalThays Vidal
    23:08 11 Sep 22
    After the renovation, this luxury hotel is gonna be a huge success 🙌Friendly staff and nice location.
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