Sint Michielsberg and the Salinas

The hills and coastline around the lodge are made for walking, and this is the classic route. The trail starts at Boka Sami beach, loops around the saliñas, the shallow salt flats behind the bay, and climbs the Sint Michielsberg for panoramic views over the village, the lagoon and the sea.

It is a moderate hike of a few kilometres and takes around an hour and a half at an easy pace. The climb is short but rocky, so wear proper walking shoes.

The saliñas are one of the best places on the island to see flamingos. Watching these tall, rose-pink birds wade through the shimmering water never gets old. Arrive early, keep your voice low and don’t rush towards them; give them space and they will carry on completely unbothered. Binoculars make it even better.

Go early, as the Curaçao sun is no joke by mid-morning, and bring more water than you think you need. Manchineel trees grow along parts of the path; don’t touch them or eat their small green fruit, as they are poisonous.

Want something gentler, or more of a challenge? Talk to Danita. She knows these trails inside out and will point you to the right one, from an easy salina walk to the Malpais trails, where you might spot the island’s white-tailed deer.

The Sint Michielsberg hill rising behind the water of the salina in Sint Michiel, Curaçao