JAN THIEL SALT FLATS
A peaceful nature escape just minutes from TuKas.221
Just a short walk from TuKas.221 lies one of Curaçao’s most beautiful natural areas, the Jan Thiel salt flats. Once used for salt production in the 17th century, today the saliñas are a quiet nature reserve where you can walk, run, enjoy nature, and spot a variety of birds.
This is also one of the best places on the island to see Caribbean flamingos in their natural habitat.
I often go there myself in the early mornings, either for a walk after the gym or during my Saturday runs — so if you’d like company or a little guidance, I’m always happy to join you.
How to Get There from TuKas.221
For easy navigation, here’s the exact location on Google Maps:
Jan Thiel Salt Flats Access – Map Link
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By Car
(3 minutes)
- Drive toward Caracasbaaiweg.
- Turn into Kaya Damasco.
- Follow the street until the very end.
- You’ll see a small open space where you can park safely.
This is the easiest and most direct access point to enter the salt flats.
🚶Walking from TuKas.221 (12–15 minutes)
Just follow the same route as by car.
Once the houses disappear and the landscape opens up, you’ll see the beginning of the trail.
Where to See the Flamingos
From the parking area or trail entrance:
- Take the small path to your right.
- Keep right as you walk toward the old salt pans.
- Continue to the wide natural lake on your left.
This is usually where the flamingos feed throughout the day.
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Best time: early morning or late afternoon
Cooler, calmer, and perfect light for photos.
A Bit of History
The Jan Thiel salt flats were built in the 1600s to produce salt, once an important industry for Curaçao.
Today, the area is protected and home to more than 80 bird species and several unique ecosystems.
The white or pink patches you’ll see are the old salt pans where seawater used to evaporate and leave the salt behind.
Tips for Your Visit
- Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes
- Bring water and sunscreen
- Great spot for morning fitness or photography
- After rainfall, the ground can be muddy
- Please help keep the area clean
After Your Hike — TUKAS Suggestions
Once you’ve enjoyed the peaceful nature of the salt flats, here are three great ways to continue your morning. These are places I personally enjoy and recommend to all my guests, all close by and perfect to combine with your hike.
Coffee Bike – Your Perfect Post-Hike Coffee Stop
Just a short walk from the end of the trail, right at the Caracasbaai roundabout, you’ll find Coffee Bike, the only spot on the island serving 100% premium Colombian coffee.
They’re open Tuesday to Sunday, 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM, so ideal after an early walk.
This is actually my Saturday routine after my 5K run, sometimes I think I only run for the coffee that comes after 😄.
If you want a friendly local vibe and a proper cup of coffee, this is the place.
Breakfast at Koko’s Curaçao
If you’re ready for breakfast with a sea view, head to Koko’s, located at the quiet end of Jan Thiel Beach.
They open at
8:00 AM, and you can simply walk in — no reservation needed.
The menu is inspired by casual street food from around the world, and the whole place has a relaxed, beachy atmosphere.
Perfect for unwinding after your hike… and who knows, maybe you’ll stay a bit longer and enjoy the beach.
Spanish Water Mangrove
SUP Tour
For something a bit more adventurous, the Spanish Water Mangrove SUP Tour is a beautiful and peaceful way to experience Curaçao from the water.
Water and snacks are included, and the tour is suitable for all levels.
If you’re looking for a quiet, beautiful activity after your hike, this is a great choice.
Where to wander, where to taste, and where to slow down
under the island sun.
Restaurants
Here you’ll find the restaurants we enjoy the most, from our personal go-to spots to local favorites full of flavor and island charm. All handpicked so you can relax, eat well, and enjoy Curaçao at your own pace.
Local Attractions
These are the places we truly love: the peaceful trails at the Jan Thiel Salt Flats, the views from Christoffel Mountain, the history of the Kura Hulanda Museum, and the colorful streets of Otrobanda. We also share a simple look at the four districts of Willemstad, the heart of Curaçao’s story.
Our Favorite Beaches
A curated list of the beaches we visit the most as a family, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or just enjoying the island sun. Easy, beautiful, and always worth the day trip.
