Walking Bonaire: the best trails and hiking routes on the island

Walking Bonaire is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this Caribbean gem. While diving and snorkelling rightly steal the spotlight, Bonaire also offers spectacular trails through rugged landscapes, past historical landmarks and through charming villages. Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply looking for a relaxed morning stroll, the island has something for everyone. We at Sunwise Bonaire are happy to guide you through the highlights.

Bonaire is a small but surprisingly varied island. From the limestone coastlines in the north to the salt flats in the south, every corner has its own distinct character. Walking gives you the freedom to discover at your own pace what a car ride or dive boat simply cannot offer. You smell the wild oregano along the path, hear iguanas rustling in the scrub and spot flamingos wading in the shallows. That is walking Bonaire at its finest.

 

The best routes for hiking Bonaire

For those who want to go proper hiking Bonaire, Washington Slagbaai National Park is the place to be. This park, managed by STINAPA Bonaire, covers the northwestern part of the island and offers trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels. Here is an overview of the most popular options:

• Brandaris summit: The highest point on Bonaire at 241 metres. The climb takes around two hours and rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire island.
• Pos di Mangel: A shorter, flatter trail alongside a freshwater pool that attracts a wide variety of birds. Perfect for birdwatchers.
• Boka Slagbaai: A coastal trail along rugged cliffs and secluded bays. The terrain is uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential.
• Goto Lake: A walk along the inland lake where flamingos nest and feed. Early morning gives you the best chance of spotting large flocks.

Please note that access to Washington Slagbaai National Park requires a valid STINAPA nature tag. You can purchase this at the park entrance or online via the STINAPA website.

Walking Bonaire beyond the national park

Not every walk needs to go through a national park. Bonaire has plenty to offer outside protected areas too. A stroll through the historic village of Rincon is an absolute must. Rincon is the oldest village on Bonaire and breathes history at every turn. The colourful houses, the old church and the warm local community make a walk through this village a genuine cultural experience. During special events the atmosphere in Rincon is truly unforgettable.

The walk along the salt flats in the south of the island is equally rewarding. Here you will find the iconic pink and white salt mountains, the historic slave huts that date back to the eighteenth century and large groups of flamingos foraging in the shallow water. This part of the island is just a few minutes’ drive from Kralendijk and is freely accessible.

Practical tips for walking Bonaire

Being well prepared makes the difference between a great hike and an uncomfortable one. Bonaire has a tropical climate with temperatures that hover between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius year-round. The trade winds provide some relief, but the sun is powerful. Keep the following tips in mind before you head out:

• Start early: Aim to begin your walk before 9 a.m. It is cooler then and you will largely have the trails to yourself.
• Carry enough water: Plan for at least one litre per hour of walking. There are virtually no drinking water facilities along the trails.
• Wear sturdy shoes: The terrain often consists of sharp coral rock or uneven lava fields. Sandals or flip-flops are not suitable.
• Apply sunscreen and wear a hat: The Bonaire sun is far more intense than in Europe or North America. Protect your skin throughout the day.
• Respect the environment: Bonaire enforces strict rules to protect its flora and fauna. Do not leave litter, pick plants or disturb wildlife.
• Download an offline map: Mobile coverage is limited inside the national park. Apps like Maps.me work well without an internet connection.

The best season for hiking Bonaire

You can technically walk on Bonaire all year round, but the dry season from January to June is the most pleasant time. During these months humidity is lower, trails are drier and conditions are generally more comfortable. The rainy season runs from October to December. Hiking is still possible then, but paths can become muddy and unexpected downpours may disrupt your plans.

July and August are popular with tourists but also the warmest months. If you plan to hike during this period, it is especially important to start early and carry extra water. We always advise our guests to check local weather conditions before heading out. Staying flexible is key to enjoying walking Bonaire safely and comfortably.

Stay in the perfect base with Sunwise

A great base makes your hiking adventure complete. Our accommodation Belnem Breeze Dushi Bida is located in the quiet neighbourhood of Belnem, just a short distance from the centre of Kralendijk and most of the island’s walking routes. From here, you can quickly head south towards the salt flats or north towards Washington Slagbaai National Park.

We make sure you stay comfortable and set off for every walk well rested. Do you have questions about routes, transport or the best spots to stop along the way? Our team is always happy to help. Walking Bonaire starts with good preparation — and that preparation starts with Sunwise.