HomeClimbingPantaletas Negras

Pantaletas Negras: A Bold Sport Climb on Curacao’s Coastal Crag

Willemstad, Curacao
face climb
dihedral start
bolted
ocean views
short approach
Length: 60 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Pantaletas Negras
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Pantaletas Negras challenges climbers with a sharp 60-foot face climb along Curacao’s sun-soaked limestone coast. This bolted sport route offers a focused adventure that sharpens technique while rewarding with sweeping ocean views at the top."

Pantaletas Negras: A Bold Sport Climb on Curacao’s Coastal Crag

Carved into the coastal cliffs of Curacao, Pantaletas Negras offers a concise yet compelling challenge for climbers craving a sharp dose of vertical adventure. This 60-foot single-pitch route starts precisely at a prominent dihedral, inviting you to engage your technique from the very first moves. The rock faces you as it wears the sun’s warmth, its surface textured just enough to provide steady friction and reliable holds.

As you ascend, the climb transitions smoothly into a sustained face section where balance and finesse become your allies. The steady bolted protection guarantees a safe ascent, allowing you to focus on movement without distraction. The top anchor, solid and accessible, rewards your effort with expansive views over the turquoise waters that hug Curacao’s shoreline, where trade winds encourage a refreshing breeze on warm days.

Located near Piscadera Bay in the Seroe Neroe district, the climb’s approachable length makes it an excellent choice for intermediate climbers seeking to test their skills on sport routes without committing to long, committing pitches. The surrounding limestone crag holds a character all its own, shaped by the steady embrace of the ocean and the tropical sun.

Planning your climb here should account for midday heat; morning or late afternoon sessions offer cooler conditions and longer shade, enhancing grip and comfort. Lightweight shoes with reliable edging capability are essential to tackle the delicate face section effectively. Carry ample water, as the area’s dry environment can quickly sap your energy.

The access trail is short and straightforward, descending from a nearby road with clear signage, so you can spend more time on the rock and less on approach. While the route receives limited foot traffic and votes, it stands out as a gem for those discovering Curacao's climbing potential, combining adventure with practical safety and accessibility.

Climber Safety

Though the route is bolted, be alert for loose rock near the base and avoid climbing during or immediately after rain due to potential slickness on limestone surfaces. The anchor is secure but double-check placements, especially in the face section, and watch for sun exposure that can lead to dehydration.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length60 feet

Local Tips

Start climbing early to avoid peak sun exposure and heat on the limestone.

Wear shoes with precise edging support for better foothold on face sections.

Hydrate generously; this Caribbean limestone crag can dry out climbers fast.

Approach trail from Piscadera Bay is short but rocky—wear sturdy approach shoes.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:At 5.9, Pantaletas Negras offers a straightforward challenge with well-protected moves that demand balance and footwork more than brute strength. The grade may feel generous to some climbers familiar with Caribbean sport crags, providing confident novices with a manageable yet engaging step up. The crisp face climbing at the top adds a delicate edge to this otherwise solid and approachable line.

Gear Requirements

Equipped with solid bolted protection, this route is perfect for climbers favoring sport routes and relying on fixed hardware. Bring climbing shoes with good edging ability for the face section, and a light rack for quickdraws.

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Tags

face climb
dihedral start
bolted
ocean views
short approach