Planning a trip to Bonaire? Here's a helpful guide with useful information to prepare you for your visit to this beautiful island.
AREA CODE – The country code of Bonaire is +(599).
ENTRY TAX - Visitors to Bonaire are required to pay a tourist entry tax of $75 per person, per visit.
TOTAL AREA – Bonaire is an island in the Caribbean Netherlands, with a total area of approximately 111 square miles. The island is home to a population of around 20,000 residents.
GEOGRAPHY – Bonaire is known for its stunning marine life, coral reefs, and arid landscape. The island is relatively flat, with its highest point being Mount Brandaris at 784 feet. The island's beaches vary, with some featuring soft white sand and others having rocky or coral-strewn shores.
MONEY – While many places on Bonaire accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry local cash for smaller establishments. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is widely used and accepted across the island.
CAPITAL CITY – Kralendijk is the capital of Bonaire, located on the island's western coast. It's a charming town and the main port of entry for visitors.
AIRPORT – Bonaire is served by Flamingo International Airport also called Bonaire International Airport (BON), which handles international and regional flights.
LANGUAGE – Dutch is the official language of Bonaire, but English and Papiamentu are also widely spoken. Papiamentu is a Creole language that blends elements of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, and African languages.
WEATHER – Bonaire enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures averaging around 30°C. The island is located outside the hurricane belt, making it a reliable destination for sunny weather. Rainfall is relatively low, with occasional showers mostly occurring between December through March.
WATER – Tap water on Bonaire is safe to drink. The island's water supply comes from desalinated seawater, providing clean and refreshing water. Bottled water is also readily available for those who prefer it.
ELECTRICITY – The power sockets on Bonaire are of type A, B, and F, with a standard voltage of 127/220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. It's recommended to bring an adapter to ensure compatibility with your electronic devices.
BUSINESS HOURS – Most businesses in Bonaire operate from Monday to Friday, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it's always a good idea to check ahead, especially during holidays.
TIPPING – Tipping in Bonaire is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.
TRANSPORTATION - To explore Bonaire, consider renting a car, especially a double cabin pick-up or a jeep for access to all areas, including Washington-Slagbaai National Park. Most rentals are stick shifts, so reserve early if you need an automatic. Taxis are available in Bonaire, but they are not metered. It's advisable to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey. Motorcycles, scooters, golf carts, and bicycles are also popular options for exploring the island offering a more casual means of transportation. Thinking of going to Klein Bonaire? A ferry is your best option for getting there; check schedules and fares with local operators. Remember to book all rentals in advance, particularly during peak seasons.
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