Curacao

Arrived Willemstad the capital of Curacao around 2:30pm. This is an island country within the Netherlands in the southern Caribbean about 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela. A small relatively flat island with a population of around 180,000. A dry climate with little rain which is reflected in the terrain, with low brush and few trees. A mostly sunny day with temperatures around 30C. Set off on a jeep tour at 3:30pm. An open sided jeep with 14 of us in the back. Our guide and driver was Silvaine. There was a 2nd jeep in our group, travelling with us. Started off through Willemstad then crossed over the high Queen Juliana bridge heading northeast. As we proceeded, it became less populated until we neared the coast at Koraal Tabak and eventually entered a wild area only accessible by offroad vehicles. Drove through the low brush and cacti on very uneven, bumpy trails heading towards the ocean. Observed 4 of the 5 types of cacti found on the island. Found our way to an open area on the wild ocean and stopped for 15 minutes for photos. Waves crashing on to the coast line at this remote area. Several large wind turbines surrounding us here which supply a large part of the island electricity supply. Returned though the wilderness and back onto regular roads to head south towards the Caracas Bay Peninsula. After a short rest stop we arrived at a small snorkeling beach alongside the ruins of Fort Beekenburg. Great view of the setting sun just as we arrived. Now given the option to snorkel or visit the fort. A few opted to snorkel but most of us went for the fort exploration. This was built in 1703 and is now in ruins but does provide good views across the island from the top. About 45 minutes later we reboarded the jeeps for our return journey across the island to Willemstad. Arrived at the dock around 7:15pm.