Den Paradera: A Sanctuary of Curacao's Herbal Heritage

Discover Den Paradera Herb Garden in Curaçao, a botanical sanctuary preserving traditional Caribbean herbal remedies and offering a tranquil escape into nature's healing embrace.

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Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris

Step into Den Paradera, Dinah Veeris's enchanting herb garden in Curaçao, a living testament to the island's rich botanical knowledge and traditions. Founded in 1991, this 'place where you feel at home' safeguards over 300 medicinal herbs, each with a story passed down through generations. Explore the botanical, historical, and production sections, engaging your senses with vibrant colors and fragrant aromas. Discover the unique species thriving in Curaçao's dry climate, learn about their traditional uses from culinary delights to time-honored remedies, and connect with the island's cultural roots. More than just a garden, Den Paradera is an immersive experience, offering guided tours, a charming shop with herbal products, and a tranquil escape into nature's healing embrace. It is a place to reconnect with the earth and appreciate the wisdom of Curacao's ancestors.

A brief summary to Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris

35VG+2RX, Willemstad, CW
+59997675608
Visit website

Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-6 pm
Friday 9 am-6 pm
Saturday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures while exploring the garden.
Join a guided tour to gain in-depth knowledge about the medicinal properties and traditional uses of the various herbs and plants.
Bring a notebook to jot down interesting herbal remedies and recipes shared during the tour.
Check the garden's website or call ahead to inquire about special events, workshops, or Dinah Veeris's availability for tours.
Visit the gift shop to purchase unique, locally made herbal products and souvenirs, supporting the garden's mission and taking a piece of Curaçao's heritage home with you.

Getting There

Taxi/Ride-Share

From Willemstad, the most convenient way to reach Den Paradera is by taxi or ride-share. A taxi ride from the city center will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Expect to pay around 30-40 ANG (approximately $17-23 USD) for a one-way trip.
Public Transport

To reach Den Paradera by public transport from Willemstad, take bus number 4 or 5 from the bus terminal in Punda towards Fuik. Inform the driver you wish to get off near Den Paradera. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the garden. A single bus fare costs around 2 ANG (approximately $1.15 USD). Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as service may be infrequent, especially on weekends.

Discover more about Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris

Den Paradera, meaning 'the place where you feel at home,' is more than just a garden; it's a living embodiment of Curaçao's rich herbal heritage and cultural legacy. Founded in 1991 by Dinah Veeris, a passionate herbalist and educator, this botanical sanctuary safeguards the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants passed down through generations. Located on the eastern side of Curaçao, Den Paradera invites visitors to embark on a sensory journey, exploring the diverse world of Caribbean herbs, spices, and traditional remedies. Dinah Veeris's dedication to preserving Curaçao's herbal traditions began in the 1980s when she recognized the fading knowledge of medicinal plants among the island's elders. She embarked on a mission to document their wisdom, interviewing countless individuals and collecting over 300 plant species. Her efforts culminated in the creation of Den Paradera, a space where these plants could thrive and their stories could be shared with the world. The garden is thoughtfully divided into three distinct sections: the botanical garden, the historical garden, and the production area. The botanical garden showcases the incredible biodiversity of Curaçao, with labeled plant species unique to the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). Visitors can marvel at the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas of herbs like basil, oregano, aloe, and tamarind, each carefully cultivated and displayed. The historical garden offers a glimpse into the past, highlighting the traditional uses of these plants in Curaçaoan culture. Learn about the Paraguiri Indians, who originally had the biggest herbal garden on the island, and how the Spaniards brought their slaves to be cured by them, calling the location "En Paradera". Discover the stories behind each plant, from culinary applications to time-honored remedies for various ailments. The production area showcases vintage gardening tools and equipment, providing insight into the traditional methods of cultivating and processing herbs. Den Paradera is not just a visual experience; it's an immersive journey that engages all the senses. As you wander through the winding paths, breathe in the fragrant scents of herbs like black sage and sweet and sour sop. Touch the velvety leaves of the Lòki Lòki tree, traditionally used to relieve headaches. Listen to the soothing sounds of nature, as butterflies and birds flutter among the plants. Guided tours, often led by Dinah Veeris herself or her knowledgeable staff, offer a deeper understanding of the plants and their uses. Learn about the Kadushi cacti, native to Curaçao, whose fruits are edible and reportedly good against hair loss. Discover the Mata Piska tree, used to numb the gills of fish and also effective as a remedy against lice. Hear stories of the Dividivi, the national tree of Curaçao, and its use against hemorrhoids. Den Paradera also serves as an educational resource for the island, welcoming visitors to gain knowledge and be amazed by the application of medicinal herbs. Dinah produces products made with herbs from the garden that can be tested and purchased in the shop. These products, made with 100% natural ingredients, offer a tangible way to experience the healing power of nature. From creams and teas to shampoos and lotions, each product is carefully crafted using traditional recipes and techniques. Beyond its botanical and cultural significance, Den Paradera is also a place of tranquility and reflection. The garden's serene atmosphere invites visitors to slow down, connect with nature, and appreciate the wisdom of Curaçao's ancestors. It's a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in the healing embrace of the earth. However, Den Paradera faces challenges. Prolonged drought and heavy rainfall have damaged many herbs and name tags. The waterfall, once an oasis, is no longer functioning. There is a lack of an efficient system for recycling organic materials, and the mill has been damaged by strong winds. Despite these challenges, Dinah Veeris and her team remain committed to preserving this invaluable cultural and botanical treasure. Visiting Den Paradera is more than just a tourist activity; it's an opportunity to support a vital community resource and contribute to the preservation of Curaçao's unique heritage. It's a chance to learn about the power of plants, connect with the island's cultural roots, and experience the healing embrace of nature. Whether you're a seasoned herbalist or simply curious about the natural world, Den Paradera offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling inspired, refreshed, and connected to the heart of Curaçao.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

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Casa Korsou

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Kurá Buriku

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Landhuis Groot Sint Joris

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grotte van hato

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Bo Curaçao

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Landhuis Brakkeput Ariba atelier

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Serena's Art Factory

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About Jackie Fine Diving

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Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei restaurant

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Landhuis Brakkeput Abou

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Brisa Do Mar

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The Ambassador Curacao

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Fort Beekenburg

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Unmissable attractions to see

Landhuis Klein Sint Joris

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Dolly's grafje

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Discover the natural splendor of Dolly's Grafje in Willemstad, Curaçao, a hiking paradise with breathtaking views and diverse flora.

The butterspot

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Tafelberg Curacao

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Tafelberg

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Seru Boca Marina

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St. Joris

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Discover Curaçao's wild side at St. Joris: Hike rugged trails, witness stunning coastal views, and experience the island's untamed beauty away from the crowded beaches, perfect for nature lovers.

Sint Joris Baai

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Landhuis Fuik ruins

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Playa Carlo

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Groot Sint Joris

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Kite Beach St. Joris Bay

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Curaçao Ostrich Farm

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Nix Kiteboarding Kitesurfing School Curacao

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Miss Ann Boattrips Curacao - Marina

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Arwin & Co

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Lijstenmakerij Curie

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Yvanie kunuku

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Poppy's Craft

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Xin Beurs Minimarket

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Art of Africa Shop

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Best smoothies and snacks

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Happy Touch

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Caribbean Handcraft

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Juno Plaza

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Toko Seru Pretu

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Class Moda atelier

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Quickmart Minimarket

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

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Dushi Sanjuanera

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Bar Kèkè

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Paddy's Curacao

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Tugboat Bar

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Tachi cafe

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Den Paradera: A Sanctuary of Curacao's Herbal Heritage

A brief summary to Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris

Local tips

Getting There

Taxi/Ride-Share

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Den Paradera Herb Garden Curaçao by Dinah Veeris

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Landhuis Choloma ruins

Casa Korsou

Kurá Buriku

Landhuis Groot Sint Joris

grotte van hato

Bo Curaçao

Landhuis Brakkeput Ariba atelier

Curacao Werken en Wonen

Serena's Art Factory

About Jackie Fine Diving

Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei restaurant

Landhuis Brakkeput Abou

Brisa Do Mar

The Ambassador Curacao

Fort Beekenburg

Unmissable attractions to see

Landhuis Klein Sint Joris

Dolly's grafje

The butterspot

Tafelberg Curacao

Tafelberg

Seru Boca Marina

St. Joris

Sint Joris Baai

Landhuis Fuik ruins

Playa Carlo

Groot Sint Joris

Kite Beach St. Joris Bay

Curaçao Ostrich Farm

Nix Kiteboarding Kitesurfing School Curacao

Miss Ann Boattrips Curacao - Marina

Essential places to dine

Zambezi Restaurant

Boca 19 Curaçao

Zuka

Restaurant Corralito

Butch's Steakhouse

Uncle J's seafood & Grill

Tank 14 Curacao

The Cove,Beach Club

Pop's place

Homemade at The Pier

The Pier

Villa Vis Jan Thiel

La Costa Nostra Curaçao

Salmons Grill Time

OBG

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

RCC- Rock Climbing Curacao

Arwin & Co

Lijstenmakerij Curie

Yvanie kunuku

Poppy's Craft

Xin Beurs Minimarket

Art of Africa Shop

Best smoothies and snacks

Happy Touch

Caribbean Handcraft

Juno Plaza

Toko Seru Pretu

New Moon CW

Class Moda atelier

Quickmart Minimarket

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Drink Santa barbara

Dushi Sanjuanera

Bar Kèkè

Paddy's Curacao