Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Saliña Ariba, Willemstad , Curaçao!

Curacao Liqueur Distillery

Why Visit?

Discover the vibrant spirit of Curaçao on a wheelchair-friendly tour to the iconic Curaçao Liqueur Distillery. Located in a charming 19th-century mansion at Landhuis Chobolobo, this accessible excursion is perfect for those interested in both history and unique island flavors.

Getting There

The distillery is situated in Willemstad, easily reachable by taxi or rented accessible van from most major hotels and cruise ports. We recommend arranging transportation in advance to ensure availability of a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

Start Your Tour

Upon arrival, the spacious grounds of Landhuis Chobolobo welcome visitors with wide paths and minimal obstacles, ideal for wheelchairs and scooters. Begin your visit at the visitor center, where you can join a guided tour specifically tailored for accessibility. Tours are available from Monday to Friday, starting from 8 AM to 5 PM, ensuring flexibility for all itineraries.

Experience the Distillery

Learn about the fascinating history of the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur—originally crafted by the Senior family in the 19th century. The tour is fully accessible, featuring smooth, flat surfaces and ramps throughout. Engage with interactive exhibits that detail the distillation process and the use of the native laraha orange, which is crucial to the liqueur"s distinctive flavor and vivid color.

Tasting and Souvenirs

After the tour, indulge in a tasting session where you can experience the various flavors of Curaçao liqueur. The tasting area is equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating to ensure comfort for all guests. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop, which is also accessible, to pick up a bottle of your favorite liqueur or some unique local crafts.

Relax and Reflect

Finish your visit by relaxing in the distillery’s courtyard, where you can enjoy a cocktail from the on-site bar, making sure to try a refreshing “Blue Curaçao” drink. The courtyard offers ample space and accessible restrooms, ensuring a comfortable end to your memorable day at the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Fort Beekenburg

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day Out at Fort Beekenburg, Curaçao

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure at Fort Beekenburg, a well-preserved gem in Curaçao, easily accessible via the scenic route along the Curaçao Underwater Park. Rent a wheelchair-accessible vehicle from one of Willemstad’s reputable rental services, which offer specially modified options for a comfortable ride. As you approach, park in the designated accessible parking spots near the entrance.

Explore Fort Beekenburg

Constructed in 1703 to ward off pirates and invaders, this fort is a testament to Dutch colonial military architecture. As one of the best-preserved forts in the Caribbean, its storied past adds an intriguing layer to your visit. The ground level of the fort, including the historical displays and some viewing areas, is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to soak in the historical atmosphere effortlessly.

Wheelchair-Friendly Paths

Follow the paved paths leading to various parts of the fort. The lower terraces and the cannon platform are reachable via ramps built to accommodate mobility scooters and wheelchadows. Information plaques are strategically placed at lower heights, ensuring all visitors have the opportunity to learn about the fort’s fascinating history.

Picnic by the Sea

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the nearby Caracas Bay. This area is equipped with accessible picnic spots offering breathtaking views of the sea and the fort. Local vendors often frequent the area, where you can try some authentic Curaçao bites like keshi yena (stuffed cheese).

Afternoon Relaxation

Wrap up your visit by soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding bay. The upper levels of Fort Beekenburg are not accessible by wheelchair, but the picturesque scenery can still be enjoyed from the lower vantage points, making for a peaceful end to your historical outing.

Departure

Head back to your accommodation with memories of a well-spent day exploring one of Curaçao’s historical treasures, comfortably and at your own pace.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Scharloo

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Scharloo, Curaçao

Introduction

Embark on a vibrant exploration of Scharloo, a historic district in Willemstad, Curaço. Renowned for its architectural delights and street art, Scharloo offers accessible adventures for those touring by wheelchair or mobile scooter.

Getting Started

Begin your journey in Willemstad. The area is compact and generally flat, ideal for wheelchairs and scooters. Public transport options are available but renting an accessible vehicle is recommended for ease and comfort. Parking spots are plentiful near the main sites.

Morning – Historical Insights

Start at the Scharloo Abou, where the streets are lined with colorful, restored mansions dating back to the 19th century. Many sidewalks have been upgraded for accessibility. The Scharloo Abou’s architectural marvels, including the famous Wedding Cake House, are a photographer’s delight. These buildings often feature wide entrances and smooth paths, ensuring easy access.

Midday – Artistic Exploration

Head to the heart of Scharloo for a guided mural tour. Begin at the notable "Bieu" (Old) Police Station mural and wind your way through the district"s alleyways, adorned with vibrant artworks from international and local artists. Tours are adapted for wheelchair and scooter users, ensuring every participant enjoys the creative splendor.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Plasa Bieu, a nearby local market accessible via flat paths. The market offers an array of local dishes in an accessible setting, with wide aisles and accommodating seating.

Afternoon – Museum Visit

Conclude your tour at the Curaçao Maritime Museum, which is fully accessible and offers insights into the island"s intriguing nautical history. The museum features ramps and elevators, ensuring that every exhibit is enjoyable without restriction.

Practical Tips

- Check the weather beforehand and plan accordingly, as Scharloo is best enjoyed in good weather.

- Bring water and sun protection for a comfortable experience.

Conclusion

Scharloo’s blend of culture, history, and art makes it a perfect and accessible getaway for everyone, guaranteeing a memorable and hassle-free experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Hato Caves

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through Curacao"s mesmerizing Hato Caves, an adventure that’s fully accessible and deeply enriching for travelers using wheelchairs or mobile scooters.

### Starting Your Day: Arrival and Preparation

Begin your exploration by arriving at the Hato Caves, located just a few minutes from Curacao International Airport. For convenience, opt for a taxi or a rental van equipped with a wheelchair lift, ensuring a comfortable ride to the caves. Parking spaces close to the entrance are designated for those with disabilities, providing easy access to the starting point of your tour.

### The Hato Caves Tour

The tour of Hato Caves unveils its beauty with paved paths and a recently installed elevator, making the natural wonders accessible to all. Starting every hour, the 45-minute guided tour delves into the heart of the cave’s impressive formations. Marvel at the stalactites, stalagmites, and the famous Madonna statue, beautifully illuminated to enhance their mystical allure. The cave is also home to long-nosed fruit bats, adding a touch of wild magic to your visit.

### Engaging Experiences and Accessible Facilities

The paths inside the cave are smooth, with handrails and ramps where needed, allowing you to navigate comfortably in a wheelchair or on a scooter. Guides are well-trained to assist, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

### Interesting Facts and Leisure Time

Did you know that the Hato Caves are over 300,000 years old? Formed below the sea level, these caves were used by Amerindian Arawaks over 1,500 years ago, and later served as hiding spots for escaped slaves in the 18th century. After your tour, relax in the adjacent garden, a serene spot where you might spot iguanas and local birds, making for a perfect end to your visit.

### Conclusion and Departure

Conclude your visit by browsing through the gift shop, which is accessible and offers unique souvenirs from your trip. As you depart, reflect on the blend of natural beauty and history you’ve just experienced, all made delightfully accessible right in the heart of Curacao.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Otrobanda

Why Visit?

Discover Otrobanda: A Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary

Morning

Start your Otrobanda adventure at the vibrant Riffort Village. Originally a 19th-century fort, Riffort has been transformed into a bustling hub of shops, cafes, and galleries. Wheelchair accessibility is excellent here with wide pathways and ramps. Enjoy a cup of coffee overlooking the harbor at one of the accessible cafes.

Mid-Morning

A short roll away leads you to the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, also known as the "Swinging Old Lady". This pontoon bridge connects Otrobanda to Punda across the St. Anna Bay. Experience the unique feature of this bridge; it swings open to allow ships through. Note: When the bridge is open, a free ferry, which is wheelchair accessible, transports pedestrians across the bay.

Lunch

Head back to Otrobanda and grab lunch at Plasa Bieu, a local food market where you can savor authentic Curaçao cuisine. The market is fully accessible and offers a chance to interact with locals in a casual setting.

Afternoon

Explore the colorful streets of Otrobanda with their beautifully restored colonial buildings. Make your way to the Kura Hulanda Museum, approximately 500 meters from the food market. This museum is nestled in a restored colonial quarter and offers ramped entrances and accessible restrooms. It showcases a poignant display on the African slave trade and the cultural heritage of the region.

Late Afternoon

Conclude your tour at Brionplein, a spacious square that"s the heart of Otrobanda. It"s surrounded by brightly painted colonial buildings and is often the site of live music and cultural events. The square is flat and easy to navigate, providing a relaxing end to your day.

Getting Around

Otrobanda"s main attractions are relatively close to each other, making it ideal for wheelchair users. For longer distances, accessible taxis are available. Ensure to ask for one with a ramp or lift when booking.

Tip

Always check the local events calendar; Otrobanda often hosts wheelchair-accessible cultural events that could be a highlight of your visit!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.