Rif Mangrove Park

Rif Mangrove Park runs a boardwalk through a restored mangrove stand on the western edge of Willemstad, an area that had been degraded and was replanted and reconnected to tidal flow before opening to visitors. The walk passes through four mangrove species with information panels, and guided tours explain the restoration and the role of the stand as a fish nursery. Herons, egrets and crabs are the usual sightings, and it is close enough to walk from Otrobanda.

The landscape

• The boardwalk - the raised walkway through the restored mangrove stand.
• The four species - the different mangroves identified along the route.
• The birdlife - herons, egrets and waders using the shallows.
• The restoration story - the replanting and tidal reconnection explained on the tours.

When to go

Year round; mornings are cooler and better for birds. Guided tours run at set times. It closes in the late afternoon.

Before you go

The park is small and an hour covers the boardwalk. Mosquitoes are a real problem at dawn and dusk. It sits in a rough part of town and the surroundings are unappealing.

Nearby

Willemstad's historic centre is east, and Fort Nassau is above the harbour.