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Den Paradera: A Healing Herb Garden

Discover the healing power of nature at Den Paradera, Curaçao's renowned herb garden, where traditional remedies and cultural heritage intertwine in a fragrant oasis of tranquility.

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Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the fragrant world of Den Paradera, Dinah Veeris's renowned herb garden in Curaçao. This enchanting oasis, a haven of traditional healing knowledge, showcases over 300 plant species, each carefully cultivated for its medicinal properties. Explore the botanical, historical, and production sections, discovering the secrets of local remedies passed down through generations. Engage your senses with vibrant colors, intoxicating aromas, and the wisdom shared by Dinah's knowledgeable staff. Whether you seek natural cures, cultural insights, or simply a tranquil escape, Den Paradera offers an unforgettable experience that nourishes both body and soul. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, learn about the island's rich heritage, and find a sense of well-being.

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

  • 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

  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the medicinal properties and cultural significance of the plants from Dinah or her staff.
  • Visit the shop to purchase unique, locally made herbal remedies and natural products.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths throughout the garden.
  • Bring cash for admission and purchases, as credit card facilities may be limited.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like the Curaçao Ostrich Farm or the Aloe Vera Plantation for a full day of exploration.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Willemstad, a taxi or ride-share is the most convenient way to reach Den Paradera. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey. A one-way trip should cost approximately ANG 55-65 (USD 30-36), but confirm with the driver. Tipping the driver 10% of the fare is customary.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport is available, it requires a combination of buses and some walking. From the main bus terminal in Punda, take a bus towards Fuik. Ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest point to Den Paradera. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the garden. Bus fare is around ANG 2 per person. Be aware that bus schedules can be infrequent, so plan accordingly and allow ample travel time.

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, head east on the main road towards Fuik. Follow the signs for Den Paradera. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Parking is available at the garden. There is no parking fee.

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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 testament to the power of traditional healing and the rich cultural heritage of Curaçao. Founded in 1991 by Dinah Veeris, a passionate advocate for natural medicine, this botanical and historical garden offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors seeking to connect with nature, learn about local remedies, and discover the island's fascinating past. Dinah Veeris's journey began in the 1980s when she recognized the fading knowledge of traditional herbal medicine among the island's elders. Determined to preserve this invaluable wisdom, she embarked on a five-year quest, interviewing elders in Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire, meticulously documenting their knowledge of medicinal plants and their uses. She traced and recovered over 300 different plant species. If a species disappeared on Curacao, she traced them in Aruba or Bonaire and brought them back to cultivate. Her dedication led to the creation of Den Paradera, a one-acre sanctuary where these plants could thrive and their healing properties could be shared with the world. The garden is thoughtfully divided into three distinct sections, each offering a unique perspective on the world of herbal medicine. The botanical garden showcases the incredible diversity of plant life found in Curaçao and the ABC islands, with over 300 labeled species. Wander through the fragrant pathways, admiring the vibrant colors and unique textures of plants like oleander, cotton, basil, oregano, agave, aloe, tamarind, black sage, flower fence and sweet and sour sop. Discover the medicinal properties of each plant, learning how they have been used for generations to treat a wide range of ailments. The historical section provides a glimpse into Curaçao's past, showcasing traditional kunuku dwellings, the countryside homes prevalent long ago. Life-sized dolls in traditional dress bring the past to life, offering a tangible connection to the island's cultural heritage. Learn about the Paraguiri Indians, who originally had the biggest herb garden on the island. The Spaniards brought their slaves to the Indians and called the location En Paradera, which later changed by the locals to Den Paradera. In the production area, witness the cultivation of herbs used to create Dinah's wide array of natural products, including soaps, oils, lotions, and elixirs. This densely packed area demonstrates the incredible productivity of the garden, showcasing the process of transforming raw plants into healing remedies. The shop offers a wide array of products, where you can purchase Dinah's amazing natural herbal remedies and, if you're lucky and they're in print, Dinah's celebrated book, Green Remedies and Golden Customs of Our Ancestors. Den Paradera is more than just a tourist attraction; it's an educational resource for locals, school children, and visitors alike. Dinah and her staff offer guided tours, sharing their extensive knowledge of herbal medicine and the cultural significance of the plants. The garden serves as an open classroom, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and the importance of preserving traditional knowledge. The tours are at 9:30 and 10:30 am. Visiting Den Paradera is an opportunity to support a sustainable and culturally significant initiative. Dinah Veeris's dedication to preserving traditional knowledge and promoting natural healing has earned her numerous awards and recognition, including a decoration from the Dutch Royal Family. By visiting her garden, you contribute to the preservation of this invaluable heritage and support the local community. Whether you're seeking natural remedies, cultural insights, or simply a peaceful escape, Den Paradera offers an unforgettable experience that will nourish your body, mind, and soul. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, learn about the island's rich heritage, and discover the healing power of plants. Den Paradera is open Monday-Saturday from 9am to 6pm. The entrance prices are USD 8,00 for adults without guide, USD 3,00 for children without guide, USD 9,00 for adults with tour and USD 5,00 for children with tour. The garden is located on the east side of Curaçao.

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