Underwater Paradise
The in 1979 founded Bonaire National Marine Park is a sea reserve located in front of the southwest coast of Bonaire, north of the isle Klein Bonaire. This amazing area consists of at least 600 acres of coral reef, mangroves and wonderful tropical fish and is a true paradise for snorkelers and divers.
For many years in a row Bonaire is elected as one of the best dive locations worldwide.
Pristine Nature and
Unique Experiences
For the ones who don’t like snorkeling, Bonaire has more than enough to offer. The island is blessed with a very nice flora and fauna, where lovers of nature can enjoy different species of birds like parrots, parakeets in beautiful colors and of course our island icon, the flamingo.
Besides this Bonaire offers a number of other interesting activities like sailing, surfing, kite-surfing, kayaking, horseback riding or for instance a quad tour.
History and Culture
Bonaire has a rich history and culture. Before the Spanish discovered Bonaire in 1499, Bonaire was already inhabited by Indians who originated from South America. In 1636 the Dutch took the place of the Spanish and started to bring African slaves to work at the plantations and saltpans from the end of the 17th century. Between 1799 and 1816 there is a ‘period of confusion’. The island was in possession of different countries. In 1816 it became Dutch again.
The different ethnic influences, Indian, African, Asian, European and South American, all contributed to Bonaire’s present day character. Bonaire’s culture is a clear mix of all these different influences. This shows in the language, Papiamentu, the traditional music and dance, the food and the different celebrations and holidays.