Jewish Heritage of Curacao
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Curacao has a fascinating Jewish history and the oldest Synagogue in the Americas, join an experienced guide who will explain in detail about the Jewish community on the island and visit historical places.
Available options
Jewish Morning
3 hours Jewish history and the oldest Synagogue in the Americas,Beth Haim Jewish cemetery, Rooi Catootje plantation house, Chobolobo, and more<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Bottled water
Round-trip shared transfer
Port pickup and drop-off
Transportation between Sights
Detailed itinerary
1
owned by a Jewish family, where Curacao liquor is produced. Tour the house and learn more about the family name and history. Before leaving take the opportunity to enjoy samples of this famous local product
2
consecrated in 1659 and esteemed as the oldest Jewish cemetery in the Western Hemisphere. This hallowed site—now a national monument—hosts weathered tombstones and poignant epitaphs chronicling centuries of Jewish presence and perseverance.
3
Stop 3
drive through the old Jewish neighborhood of Scharloo, were you will be able to see all the old colorful buildings and slave houses.
4
Guided tour inside the synagogue for an up-close look at religious life in Curacao. The Jewish faith has been practiced here without interruption since 1732 and one congregation itself is even older, having been established in 1651. The very fear of persecution is what drove many of Curacao’s earliest Jewish residents to relocate to the island in the first place. They were rightfully more than a little guarded about their beliefs, even upon founding their congregation and building their synagogues nearly a century later.
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Pickup from Sandals Hotel, Jhantiel or Banda Abou Area
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
31 reviews
5★
27
4★
0
3★
2
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
36 reviews
5★
31
4★
2
3★
2
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Shared Tour
Minimum drinking age is 18 years
We recommend wearing long pants or jeans and walking shoes. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is also recommended
Short pants and swimwear are not allowed in the synagogue.
In order to enter the synagogue an you must present an Identification documents, such as passport, sea card, etc.
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
About Curaçao
Curaçao is a vibrant Caribbean island known for its colorful architecture, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. This Dutch Caribbean gem offers a unique blend of European charm and tropical paradise, making it a distinctive destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Top Attractions
Klein Curaçao
A small, uninhabited island off the coast of Curaçao, known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving spots.
Nature
Full day trip
Moderate (boat tour prices vary)
Christoffel National Park
The largest national park on the island, featuring diverse landscapes, hiking trails, and the highest point on Curaçao, Mount Christoffel.
Nature
Half day to full day
Budget (entry fee around $10)
Punda
One of the two main districts of Willemstad, known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and historic sites.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, budget for shopping and dining
Shete Boka National Park
A national park on the northern coast of Curaçao, featuring rugged cliffs, caves, and natural blowholes.
Nature
Half day
Budget (entry fee around $5)
Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
The oldest surviving synagogue in the Americas, founded in 1651, offering a glimpse into the island's rich Jewish heritage.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee around $10)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Keshi Yena
A savory dish made with a hollowed-out cheese shell filled with spiced meat, similar to a Dutch meatball.
Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Fungi
A cornmeal-based dish often served with fish or other main courses.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Bami
A stir-fried noodle dish with vegetables and meat, influenced by Indonesian cuisine.
Dinner
Contains meat, vegetarian options available
Pasta a la Piska
A local version of pasta with a creamy fish sauce, often made with fresh catch of the day.
Dinner
Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Hiking
Kayaking
Windsurfing
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
January to April
This is the peak tourist season with ideal weather conditions, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring the island. The island is vibrant with various events and festivals during this period.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: Papiamento, English, Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG)
Time Zone
GMT-4
Electricity
127VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Curaçao is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a stable political environment. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas and crowded places, so it's important to take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards
Getting there
By air
- Curaçao International Airport • 10 km from Willemstad
By bus
Punda, Otro Banda, Willemstad
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable but can be unreliable. They are best suited for budget travelers with flexible schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi apps, but availability may be limited
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Willemstad
Oranjestad
Westpunt
Day trips
Klein Curaçao
15 km from Willemstad • Full day
A small, uninhabited island off the coast of Curaçao, known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving spots.
Bonaire
50 km from Curaçao • Full day
A neighboring island known for its stunning beaches, excellent diving, and unique wildlife.
Aruba
65 km from Curaçao • Full day or overnight
A popular tourist destination known for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
Festivals
Carnival • February/March (dates vary)
Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival • August (dates vary)
Curaçao International Film Festival Rotterdam - Curaçao (IFFR-C) • November (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Papiamento to connect with locals and enhance your cultural experience
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path
- Visit the Floating Market in Willemstad for a unique shopping experience and to sample fresh local produce and seafood
- Try local dishes like keshi yena, fungi, and bami for an authentic taste of Curaçaoan cuisine
- Pack a reusable water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while exploring the island
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
