District Otrobanda

About

Otrobanda, which translates to "the other side," is the historic district on the opposite side of St. Anna Bay from Punda. Established in 1707 when Punda ran out of space, Otrobanda has seen a total revitalization in recent years thanks to the annual KayaKaya Festival and other community efforts that help beautify the area, support local vendors, and celebrate the endless art and culture with live performances, food, and dancing. The district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of Willemstad's most important cultural attractions. Kura Hulanda Village, the heart of Otrobanda, includes stores, bars, restaurants, hotels, and the iconic Kura Hulanda Museum — one of the most important museums in the Caribbean dedicated to the transatlantic slave trade and African heritage. Rif Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the district's waterfront, has been transformed into a beautiful area with restaurants, stores, a casino, and live music performances on weekends. A guided walking tour through Otrobanda immerses visitors in the history, art, and architecture of unique sites across the district, with colorful street art, colonial mansions, and stunning views of Punda across the bay. Otrobanda is best explored on weekends when the energy is highest, and can be easily reached from Punda via the Queen Emma Bridge.

Otrobanda

How to get there

Cross the Queen Emma Bridge from Punda or walk along the waterfront from Rif Fort. Otrobanda is directly across St. Anna Bay from Punda.