Curaçao Ostrich Farm

The Curaçao Ostrich Farm at Groot Sint Joris, in the dry hills of the island's east near Spanish Water, is one of the largest ostrich-breeding operations outside Africa. The arid, sunny climate suits the birds well, and the farm has grown into a popular family attraction built around guided tours of the flock.

Visits run as open-vehicle safari tours: you ride out among the enclosures in a converted safari truck while a guide explains the ostrich life cycle, from egg to fully grown bird. Along the way there are chances to get close, hold an ostrich egg (which can bear the weight of an adult), feed the birds, and, for the brave, stand on one of the giant eggs to test its strength.

More than the tour

The farm also keeps emus and other animals, and there is a small craft shop and an on-site restaurant that serves ostrich-meat dishes for the curious, alongside more familiar fare. The whole visit is hands-on and well suited to children, with plenty of photo opportunities among the towering birds.

• Tours run on a fixed schedule, so aim to arrive a little before a departure time.
• The east-coast location pairs with a trip out toward Spanish Water and the calm southeast beaches.

Go in the morning before the heat builds, follow the guide's instructions around the birds (ostriches are powerful and can kick), and bring sun protection and water for the open, sun-baked farm.