Otrobanda on foot: the other side of the harbour

Otrobanda literally means "the other side": the side of the harbour opposite Punda. It is the district most visitors walk across on their way to the Rif Fort and back again, which is a pity, because it only gets interesting a few streets inland.

What you see

Colonial buildings in every state of repair, from freshly painted to with a tree through the roof. Streets narrow enough to hold some shade. Church towers above the rooflines. And scattered among them, the murals the district has become known for in recent years.

The contrast with Punda is the point. Punda is polished for visitors; Otrobanda is a residential neighbourhood that also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A route that works

Cross the Queen Emma Bridge from Punda, turn left past the Rif Fort, then head into the district along the Breedestraat. Keep right where you can and you will end up in the Kura Hulanda area. Walk back a few streets further north so you see different facades.

Allow an hour and a half to two hours if you take your time.

What to watch for

During the day it is easy walking. In the evening it is quieter and parts are poorly lit; then it is wiser to stay on the Punda side or take a taxi. Otherwise the usual: bring water, and wear shoes you can walk in, because the pavements are uneven.