When you think of Curaçao, you probably think of endless white beaches and clear blue sea. However, the north coast of the island offers something completely different and you'll find the Shete Boka National Park there. This unique nature reserve is a fun activity in Curaçao and ideal to combine with relaxing beach days. Read our tips and travel prepared.
The easiest way to get yourself around the island is by hire car. We ourselves almost always opt for Sunnycars.co.uk, because it is by far the most reliable option. With their clear conditions and all-inclusive service, you are always well insured, with no hidden costs. Want to know more about renting a car in Curacao? Read our blog about Rent a car on Curaçao!
General information on Curaçao
Are you planning your trip to Curaçao? Then check out our tips for the best travel period, daily budget and climate. You will find all information about Curaçao here.
This is what you need to know about Shete Boka National Park
Let's start at the beginning, because why is the park called Shete Boka? Shete Boka literally means “seven mouths” in Papiamentu, and refers to the various bays along the north coast of Curaçao. In these ‘mouths’, the salty seawater pounds against the rocks with unprecedented force, causing the water to spray metres high into the air.
How to get to Shete Boka National Park
If, like us, you are staying on Curaçao near Jan Thiel or Willemstad keep in mind that it is about an hour's drive to the entrance of Shete Boka National Park. This is because the park is located all the way in the west of Curaçao. A rental car is therefore indispensable and also ideal, as you can organise your day completely as you wish and immediately discover more of the island. For example, after your visit to the park, head to one of the beaches On the west side of the island!
Shete Boka National Park opening hours and prices
The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but keep in mind that after 3 p.m., no one is admitted. We recommend going as early in the morning as possible. You don't have to get out of bed extremely early for it, but as there is no shade in the park, it can be just too hot after 11:00.
Please note: The park is closed during public holidays.
You can get a ticket for the park at the entrance. You can easily park your car here and walk to the ticket office. Prices are as follows:
| Park & museum admission | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | Nafl. 25.00 | USD 15.00 | EUR 12.50 |
| Children 6-12 years | Nafl. 3.50 | USD 2.00 | EUR 1.75 |
| Children 0-5 years | Free |
Read also: Useful tips and information for climbing Mount Christoffel on Curaçao
Read also: What to do on Curaçao: 10x handy and fun tips!
What to see in Shete Boka National Park
We like honesty, which is why we want to state upfront that the park may not be hugely spectacular - possibly because we've been spoilt by previous trips - but it's certainly still a fun experience. To get you a bit in the right direction, we recommend at least checking out the bays below!
- Boka Tabla: Here you can explore a cave where the sea flows in with full force. A narrow staircase takes you to the cave entrance.
- Boka Pistol: At this spot, water is forced through a narrow opening in the rocks, shooting into the air like a water fountain.
- Boka Wandomi: This bay is famous for its natural bridge created by erosion.
- Boka Kalki: A quieter bay that you reach via a path through the mangroves.
Hiking in Shete Boka
There are two different routes you can follow in the park.
- Boka Pistol Trail (yellow): This route takes about an hour and takes you past Boka Brown, where turtles often lay their eggs, and ends at Boka Pistol.
- Boka Wandomi Trail (red): This hike also takes an hour and takes you to the natural bridge at Boka Wandomi. The trail follows the rugged coastline and offers a cool view of the wild sea.
Note: There is little shade in the park. Therefore, bring plenty of water, apply sunscreen and wear a cap or hat.
Discover Shete Boka by car
For those who have less time or prefer not to walk too much, it is also possible to explore the park by car. There are several car parks at the popular attractions, allowing you to walk short stretches and cool off in the car in between. The unpaved roads can be a bit bumpy, so careful driving is recommended.
Tips for your visit
- Start on time: Make sure you visit the park before the worst of the heat! We recommend being there by opening time.
- Sunburn: There is little shade and a strong wind. Lovely, of course, that breeze, but because of this you don't realise you are getting sunburned.
- Take plenty of water with you: Bring at least one litre of water per person.
- Snacks: The park has no facilities, so make sure you bring enough snacks.
- Bring swimwear: After the hike, you can cool off at one of the beautiful beaches nearby.
Shete Boka National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the ‘other side’ of Curaçao. We hope these tips help you plan your trip. Still have questions? You can always send us a message via Instagram.
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