Get to know Bonaire on an island sightseeing excursion from its northern shores to its south. Not only will you see some of the most impressive sights, but you'll also learn about the history, culture, food, and economics of the island.
You'll meet your native excursion guide outside your Bonaire cruise ship port. Depending on the number of guests you'll be in air-conditioned comfort in a car, van or pickup with free WiFi and drinks. Start your day with a drive along Kaya Grandi, the main street of Bonaire. Here you'll see historic buildings from the late 1800s to early 1900s, some now renovated. The main floors were shops and the upper floors had residences. This is the main shopping area with a vast variety of stores from luxury jewelry shops to souvenir shops and everything in between. Restaurants and bars are also plentiful along this stretch.
Your first stop is at the 1000 Steps for a 5 to 10-minute photo opportunity. The hill has 67 limestone steps leading down to a beach by the sparkling blue ocean but your guide will fill you in on its misleading name.
Your next 5 to 10-minute stop is at the Flamingo Sanctuary. This is one of only four areas in the world where Flamingos breed. Depending on Mother Nature (and the flamingos) they may be close or further away. As a backdrop is Mount Brandaris, the tallest peak on the island at only 784 feet.
You'll drive through the serene village of Rincon, tucked away in a valley and from whose hills you can see both sides of the island. The village has some historical edifices plus the oldest building on the island.
Then your guide will head to the wild northeast coast of Bonaire where the waves crash off the limestone cliffs. You may see some of the many wild donkeys roaming the island. Your next stop is at the Salt Hills for a brief 5 to 10-minute photo op. Here you can see the contrasting white salt hills with the pink lagoon. The processed salt attracts different types of algae to the ponds, which gives them a pink color. It's this algae that also gives the flamingos their distinctive pink coats.
Your last 5 to 10-minute stop is at the Slave Huts. These iconic island structures housed the slaves who worked in the salt mines during the mid-1800s. The slaves slept in the primitive huts during the workweek and walked about 7 hours into town to be with their families on the weekends.
After your excursion, you will have the option to be taken back to your ship or you can decide to have some beach time. If you would like some fun in the sun, the transport will return to pick you up and get you back to the ship at least 1 hour before it departs the port. There are 3 beaches to choose from Sorobon Beach, Eden or Coco Beach. You can find small restaurants and bars that sell snacks, food, and beverages if you choose to purchase them. Beach time varies according to your ship's departure time. This option may not be available for all arrivals or excursions depending on time.
Please consider the maximum number of people is 14 guests.
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