Carmabi Foundation ~repack~ Jun 2026

However, a group of forward-thinking scientists and local visionaries saw something else. They saw a pristine laboratory. They realized that the southern coast of Curaçao, with its calm, crystal-clear waters and staggering biodiversity, was one of the most unique ecological spots on the planet.

By the 1980s and 1990s, the industrial prosperity of Curaçao began to clash with the ecological mandate of CARMABI. The once-pristine Piscadera Bay, right on the institute's doorstep, began to suffer. Pollution from the growing population and the nearby industry threatened the very reefs the institute was built to study.

Want to visit? Carmabi’s visitor center is open daily (except holidays). Check their official site for current hours, trail conditions, and tour reservations. carmabi foundation

Today, the story of CARMABI is woven into the daily life of Curaçao. It is no longer just an institute; it is a foundation with three pillars.

Entering the 21st century, CARMABI underwent a physical and philosophical transformation. The old institute buildings, while charming, were becoming obsolete. Recognizing the global urgency of climate change, the foundation launched a massive renovation. However, a group of forward-thinking scientists and local

If you’re visiting Curaçao, learning about Carmabi isn’t just a nice-to-know—it’s the key to experiencing the island like a true naturalist.

But the institute soon realized that science alone was not enough; the islanders themselves were disconnected from their environment. In the 1960s, a pivotal chapter was written with the acquisition of a sprawling tract of land on the northwest coast. This area, known as Christoffelpark , was a rugged, arid wilderness filled with cacti, wild goats, and ancient caves. By the 1980s and 1990s, the industrial prosperity

Three species of sea turtles nest on Curaçao’s beaches. Carmabi patrols nesting sites, relocates threatened eggs, and educates locals and tourists about reducing light pollution and beach furniture that blocks hatchlings. If you see a turtle while diving, thank Carmabi’s conservation work.

Today, standing on the dock at Piscadera Bay, looking out over the water, the narrative continues. The scientists in the modern labs are racing against time. The rangers in the parks are guarding ancient species. The foundation stands as a testament to a simple truth: that on a small island in the Caribbean, a small group of dedicated people can indeed protect an entire world. The story of CARMABI is, ultimately, the story of Curaçao learning to love itself.