Curaçao Taking Steps Towards Sustainable Tourism Amid World Travel Growth

Like much of the world right now, the Caribbean island of Curaçao is facing the effects of overtourism and while most grapple with the problem, this idyllic island is taking a different approach. What they are planning is to prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains.

Curaçao conducting a Destination Carrying Capacity study

Curaçao is working in collaboration with Sustainable Travel Internatoinal and the George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies (GW IITS) to conduct a Destination Carrying Capacity Study. This comprehensive framework assesses the environmental, social and economic impacts of rising tourism.

Meanwhile, by shifting the focus from simply increasing numbers to evaluate tourism’s overall value, to seeking to foster a sustainable, balanced industry that optimizes economic growth while protecting the island’s ecosystems, enhancing both visitor experience and community well-being and preserving its cultural heritage.

Caribbean nation planning for future growth

In 2024, world tourism surged to 1.4 billion international arrivals – almost reaching pre-pandemic levels. However, while the growth in tourism spurred economic recovery, it also led to challenges, including overcrowding, community frustration, environmental damage, and pressure on infrastructure in many destinations.

Meanwhile, Curaçao is also experiencing an upward trend, having received a record 700,000+ overnight visitors in 2024, followed by strong arrivals at the beginning of 2025. Moreover, the Caribbean nation’s global appeal comes from its vibrant culture, idyllic beaches and rich heritage.

However, while seeing the potential for growth pains, Curaçao is proactively taking strategic measures to address future challenges.

Curaçao conducting a Destination Carrying Capacity Study

In collaboration with Sustainable Travel International and the GW International Institute of Tourism Studies, Curaçao is conducting a data-driven Destination Carrying Capacity Study aimed at fostering sustainable tourism growth on the island.

Tourism success has traditionally been measured simply by visitor numbers and revenue. However, these metrics overlook the wider impact on local communities, the long-term sustainability of destinations and the environment.

In response, Curaçao is adopting a more forward-thinking approach, evaluating success through community feedback, infrastructure capacity, ecological health, preservation of cultural heritage and visitor experience, including the following:

• Evaluating the impacts of tourism and modeling future growth scenarios to guide policy and planning decisions.
• Creating an action plan that aligns with local priorities, ensuring a tourism model that is both high-value and low-impact.
• Designing a flexible system for Curaçao to monitor tourism’s effects on the destination and maintain equilibrium by adjusting key factors that influence its sustainability.

Meanwhile, the primary focus is to ensure that all stakeholders have a say in shaping Curaçao’s tourism future. Moreover, the study will actively involve public and private sector stakeholders, industry leaders and local communities, while also taking into account visitor viewpoints, thus promoting a sense of ownership and shared responsibility in the decision-making process.

Managing tourism wisely

Paloma Zapata, CEO of Sustainable Travel International says:

This isn’t about limiting tourism—it’s about managing it wisely. Instead of depleting resources or leading to overtourism, the goal is to create a virtuous cycle where thoughtful tourism growth strengthens community well-being and preserves the island’s unique appeal over time.

This, in turn, enhances visitor experiences and generates economic returns that can be reinvested in continual improvements.

Learn more about Curaçao’s sustainable tourism growth efforts here.