From Rincon follow the main road northwest for 3.5km to Washington-Slagbaai National Park, which occupies most of the island's northwestern tip. The land, which once belonged to two plantation owners who produced and exported vast quantities of aloe, goat meat and charcoal, is now a protected reserve for fascinating flora and fauna, including the towering cacti (known locally as kadushi , a staple of soups), pink flamingos and numerous species of parrot, bats, iguanas and lizards. Other highlights include salt ponds, rocky coves, plantation houses, snorkeling spots and Brandaris Hill , the highest point on the island (241m).

Once past the gate you can choose from two routes that will take you through the park: the shorter 24km green route (2hr) traversing the hilly interior or the longer 40km yellow route (4hr) that winds around the coast before venturing inland and joining up with the green route. Stick to the colored trail markers and follow the map, keeping in mind that once you start your journey you cannot backtrack - all roads lead in one direction. Feel free to venture out of your car to explore the landscape at any of the stops marked on the map.

Both routes start by taking you past the saltpans of Saliña Matijs , which can be dry for most of the year, though between December and March hundreds of flamingos arrive here as soon as the saltpan fills with rainwater. From here the road forks into separate colored routes.

Taking the yellow route will bring you to Playa Chikitu , a popular sunbathing spot with a few umbrellas on the beach, though swimming is not advisable because of the strong outgoing current. Continuing along this route, you'll pass many rugged coves ( bokas ) and stunning vistas of the park; the green route, meanwhile, cuts west across the park, skipping the park's northern reaches.