Transportation in Bonaire
Boomerang-shaped Bonaire spans 288 km² and is characterised by a cactus-clad interior edged by an ecological preserve in the north dominated by the lofty peaks of 240-metre Mount Brandaris. Curvaceous Lac Bay hems the east of the island with Atlantis Beach on the western flank - both are accessible in a single morning's drive.Many of Bonaire's attractions are clustered around the capital city Kralendijk where sights are easy to reach on foot.Head to the north for pristine sparkling lakes, rugged peaks and flamingo feeding grounds with glorious beaches and clear, warm waters on the eastern and western shorelines and salt pans in the south.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Taxi
Taxis are inexpensive and plentiful with a large rank at Flamingo International Airport and on Kralendijk's waterfront stretch. For a full list of pick-up points, contact the central taxi despatch office (+599 717 8100). Vehicles are unmetered, but must adhere to government rates that each taxi is obliged to display; fares increase by 50% 12am-7am, so be sure to agree a price beforehand.
Car
Bonaire's roads range from flat, paved expanses to pitted, rocky and muddy trails. Numerous rental agencies operate out of the airport and offer air-conditioned family saloons, jeeps and open-sided pick-up trucks. Drivers should be over 21 with a full licence. A 4x4 is wise during the wetter months of October to January. The island has no traffic lights and cars drive on the right.
Foot
Getting from A to B in Kralendijk is relatively easy on foot with the waterfront area and key attractions conveniently clustered together. Pedestrianised malls and historic streets make walking tours a breeze, well away from the traffic of the commercial core of the city.
Boat
A number of charters, sail boats and water taxis connect Bonaire to Klein Bonaire islet (Little Bonaire) – a popular jaunt with snorkellers, divers, fishing buffs and sightseers alike. This low-lying, uninhabited islet is an easy ten-minute hop, early till dusk.
Rent your car
Car hire is popular with visitors seeking out Bonaire’s best diving locations, and the “main” road traverses the island in a figure of eight. Not all the roads are paved and signposts can be few and far between, but there’s little traffic and it’s easy to find your way.
Transportation Tips
Unlike many Caribbean islands, Bonaire is rife with road signs that provide excellent pointers to major sights, towns and attractions. What's more, free maps are available from every hotel, tourist information point and car-hire booth on the island – just ask around for a copy.
