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Bonaire

Caribbean Netherlands

Bonaire

Provided byJannick Nijholt/Unsplash
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BonaireGuide was updated:
With crystal clear waters and uniquely rich marine life, Bonaire is regarded as a premier diving destination. Yet, there is plenty to see and do even after your swim fins are off — salt pyramids, a cactus distillery, and historical monuments to name but a few.
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Facts
Population:22,573 (Bonaire, 2022)
Currency:US Dollar, $1 = 100 cents
Emergency Numbers:Police, Ambulance, Fire: 911
Newspapers:BES Reporter (English) — www.bes-reporter.com Amigoe (Dutch) — www.amigoe.com Bonaire TV (Papiamentu) — www.bonaire.tv
Website:www.bonaireisland.com »
Opening Hours:Shops are generally open from 9am to 6pm seven days a week, but exceptions do occur with shortened opening hours on weekends.
Tourist Information:Tourism Corporation Bonaire 2 Kaya Grandi, Kralendijk, Bonaire +599 717 8322 www.bonaireisland.com

Do & See

Thanks to its extensive marine park, sanctuaries, and distinctive ecosystem, Bonaire offers whole new perspectives on the natural world. And from sports to cuisine to architecture, be sure to also explore man's take on this extraordinary world.
Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving

The sea surrounding Bonaire is entirely part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, whose reefs and mangroves are home to the best preserved and the most diverse marine life in the Caribbean. There are nearly 90 dive sites in Bonaire, the most well-known ones being the 1000 Steps Beach, the popular wreck of Hilma Hooker, the deserted island of Klein Bonaire and Bari Reef, whose richness is unique even from a Bonairean perspective. Dive sites are indicated with big rocks painted yellow across the island to help underwater enthusiasts find the location they seek.

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Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary

Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary

Bonairean landscapes are brimming with vibrant flamingos, the island being one of the world's only four breeding grounds for the pink-hued birds — who get their iconic colour from the brine shrimp in the water. Bonaire's go-to place for birdwatching is Pekelmeer Lake, which is located near the salt pans. It's worth hiring a car to explore the area, but don't forget to bring your binoculars as you can only observe the flamingos from a distance. If you are headed elsewhere, both Goto Lake (Goto Meer) and Lac Bay give you spectacular views of the birds.

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Rincón

Rincón

Founded in the 16th century by the Spanish, Rincón is the oldest settlement not only of Bonaire but the entire Dutch Caribbean. Its location, in the valley, once provided shelter from pirates. Today, it offers great hiking options with breathtaking views. As a cultural centre, it is home to attractions such as the rock formations of Gruta Lourdes, a pilgrimage site, and the Kas Krioyo, an authentic Bonairean building that currently houses a museum. The island's only distillery, Cadushy, is also located here, and it is worth timing your visit so you can celebrate with the locals on Rincón Day on 30 April.

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