Riding the Wild North: A Buggy Tour Across Curaçao’s Wind-Swept Coast
Drive a UTV across Curaçao’s raw north shore — cacti plains, natural arches, and pounding surf in a compact, hands-on outing.
You pull up to a corrugated-metal shed across from the Sunscape Resort, the kind of place that looks like it shouldn’t be the gateway to an island’s wildest corners. A row of orange and black UTVs waits like caged animals, engines ticking as they cool. Within minutes the guide flips a helmet toward you and points north. The road becomes sand; the radio quiets. The island’s polite, pastel shorelines fall away and the terrain hardens into a raw, arid scrub of cacti, limestone outcrops, and low scrub that catches the trade winds. This is Curaçao’s north: where the ocean collides with rock, where waves find cavities and throw themselves back at the cliffs in white foam. The buggy’s wheels bite, and the world narrows to dust, spray, and the narrow ribbon of track ahead.
Trail Wisdom
Secure loose belongings
Strap phones and sunglasses into a zippered pack or use a waterproof case—sand and wind will find unsecured items.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sturdy trail shoes protect your feet from sharp limestone, cactus spines, and hot metal footwells.
Time your ride
Morning departures are cooler and calmer; afternoon sessions can be windier but offer dramatic afternoon light for photos.
Hydrate and protect
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person and apply reef-safe sunscreen before you board.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small coves along the north shore ideal for private beach walks
- •A short walk to a remote blowhole that’s quieter than the main viewpoints
Wildlife
Brown pelican, Curaçao whiptail lizard
Conservation Note
Stay on established tracks to limit erosion and damage to cacti; avoid disturbing seabird nesting areas and take all trash back to town.
The north coast was historically less settled than the south due to rough seas and scarce freshwater; remnants of early colonial and plantation-era structures dot the interior.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: mild temperatures, fewer crowds, clear light for photos
Challenges: occasional showers, strong trade winds some days
Spring (March–May) is part of the dry season with pleasant temperatures and good visibility—expect some breezy days on the north shore.
summer
Best for: long daylight hours, hot-weather driving, lively ocean conditions
Challenges: higher heat and humidity, increasing chance of scattered storms
Summer is warm and lively; plan for heat-management and possible short, intense rain showers.
fall
Best for: warm seas, fewer tourists, good snorkeling after calmer days
Challenges: infrequent tropical activity farther out at sea, variable winds
Fall holds warm temperatures and quieter tourism seasons, with variable wind—check conditions before you go.
winter
Best for: cooler trade winds, dry weather, excellent visibility
Challenges: wind can be strongest on north coast, choppy seas at viewpoints
Winter (Dec–Feb) is the island’s dry season—crisp, bright, and popular; winds make the north dramatically energetic.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Protects feet from sharp rock, hot footwells, and cactus.
Helmet and goggles (provided or bring your own)Essential
Shields your head and eyes from wind-blown sand and spray.
Waterproof phone case or dry bagEssential
Keeps electronics safe from sand, salt, and unexpected surf.
Light windproof layer
Trade winds cool quickly after high-speed stretches—layer to stay comfortable.
Common Questions
Do I need a driver’s license to drive the UTV?
Yes—drivers must present a valid driver’s license; passengers do not need one but must wear safety gear.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed as passengers depending on age and size—check operator policies for minimums and safety harness fit.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes, comfortable pants or shorts, sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen, and a hat for pre/post-ride; helmets are provided.
Are photos allowed during the ride?
Yes, but keep cameras secured. Your guide will stop at photo-friendly points for better, safer shots.
How rough is the terrain?
Expect sandy plains, rocky ledges, and rutted tracks—moderate roughness that is manageable in a UTV but bumpy for those with mobility issues.
Can we swap drivers during the tour?
Most operators allow driver swaps at designated stops—confirm with the guide during briefing to keep within time and safety limits.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes (protect from rock and cactus), Water bottle (stay hydrated in sun and wind), Sunscreen and sunglasses (strong UV and reflective spray), Waterproof phone case (protect electronics from sand and salt)
Did You Know
Shete Boka and many north-coast formations on Curaçao are the product of centuries of wave action carving porous limestone—some blowholes can spray seawater over 20 feet on high surf days.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Hato International Airport (CUR); book morning tours to avoid heat; bring local currency for tips and small purchases; expect limited cell service on remote north-coast stretches
Local Flavor
After the ride, head to Willemstad’s Otrobanda or Plasa Bieu for local fare—try keshi yena (cheese-stuffed meat) and a cold Balashi beer. For relaxed cocktails and ocean views, Mambo Beach or Pietermaai’s beachfront bars are nearby.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Hato International (CUR); Meeting point: buggy shop across Sunscape Resort, Willemstad; Driving distance from Willemstad center: 10–25 minutes to meeting point, 45–75 minutes to furthest north-coast outlooks; Cell service: generally good near towns, patchy on remote north coast; Permits: none required
Sustainability Note
The north coast contains fragile limestone and coastal habitats—stay on designated tracks, avoid trampling vegetation, and pack out all trash to protect nesting seabirds and slow erosion.