Car Rental Bonaire

A rental car on Bonaire isn't luxury but necessity. The island has no public transport and the best dive sites, beaches and attractions are scattered across the entire island. if you want to visit the flamingos in the south, explore the rugged nature of Washington Slagbaai National Park, or simply stay flexible during your diving vacation, without a car you won't get anywhere.

In this complete guide we tell you everything about car rental Bonaire: which rental companies are best, which car you need, what it costs and how driving on the island works. With more than 20 years of experience on the island, we share practical tips you won't find anywhere else.

Why a rental car is essential on Bonaire

Bonaire is compact but spreads attractions across the entire island. Without your own transport you'll miss the best of what the island has to offer. Here are the main reasons why a rental car is indispensable:

No public transport available

Bonaire simply has no buses, trams or other forms of public transport. You're completely dependent on your own transport or taxis. For an island 38 kilometers long and 8 kilometers wide that might seem excessive, but the distances between important locations are bigger than you think.

Taxi costs $45 per hour

Taxis are available but expensive. The hourly rate is $45, and from the airport to Kralendijk you already pay $15-20. For a day of sightseeing you easily reach $200-300. A rental car costs $39-75 per day, the choice is quickly made.

Distances between attractions are large

From Kralendijk to Washington Slagbaai National Park you drive 45 minutes. To Lac Bay in the east it's 20 minutes. The southern salt pans are 25 minutes drive from the capital. With a rental car you set your own pace and can stop wherever you want along the way.

Dive sites only reachable by car

Bonaire has 86 dive sites, 54 of which are accessible from shore. These shore diving sites are scattered along the west coast and can only be reached by car. You park at the yellow stones that mark each dive site and walk into the water. Without a car you miss the best dive locations in the Caribbean.

Freedom to stop spontaneously

The most beautiful things on Bonaire you often discover by accident: a group of flamingos along the road, a deserted bay, donkeys blocking the road. With a rental car you stop where and when you want. That freedom makes your vacation much richer.

Compare best car rental companies on Bonaire

On Bonaire you have a choice between local rental companies and international chains. Local companies are often cheaper and more flexible, while big names offer more security. Here we compare the best options:

AB Car Rental - local market leader

AB Car Rental has been active on Bonaire for more than 30 years and has developed into the largest local rental company. They distinguish themselves mainly through personal service and flexibility.

Advantages AB Car Rental:

• Only rental company with €0 excess option
• Free taxi service from/to Flamingo Airport
• Dive & Drive packages with 10% discount
• No credit card needed with certain packages
• 200,000+ satisfied customers since 1985

Prices start at $39 per day for an automatic Kia Picanto. For divers the Toyota Hilux pickup trucks are popular: manual from $49, automatic from $75. They have two locations: the main office at Kaya Industria 31 and a counter at the airport.

Sunny Cars - all-inclusive rental

Sunny Cars works with the all-inclusive concept: all insurance, unlimited mileage and no surprises afterwards. They have two branches on Bonaire: one in Kralendijk and one at Flamingo Airport.

Advantages Sunny Cars:

• All-in package without hidden costs
• SGR quality mark for financial security
• Flexservice: cancel up to 1 hour beforehand
• ANWB partnership with €10 discount for members
• Transparent pricing

ANWB members get €10 discount when they choose fastlane and/or a young rental car. The Flexservice is handy if your plans suddenly change, you can still cancel up to one hour before start.

International rental companies (Avis, Hertz, Budget)

The well-known international brands also have branches on Bonaire, mainly at the airport. They offer the familiarity of a worldwide chain but are usually more expensive than local alternatives.

Characteristics international rental companies:

• Recognizable brand names and standard procedures
• Branches at Flamingo Airport for convenience
• Worldwide customer service
• Higher prices than local rental companies
• Strict conditions for age and credit card

For car rental Bonaire we especially recommend local rental companies. They know the island, are more flexible with conditions and often offer better service at lower prices. AB Car Rental and Easy Car Rental Bonaire have proven to be reliable choices.

Rental company	From price/day	Excess	Credit card required	Airport pickup
AB Car Rental	$39	€0 option	No (with some packages)	Free taxi
Sunny Cars	$45	Included	Yes	Yes
Avis/Hertz	$52+	$500-1500	Yes	Yes

Which car do you need for Bonaire

Your rental car choice determines which parts of Bonaire you can explore. The island has paved main roads but also dirt paths and rocky routes that require special cars.

Compact cars for regular road use

For driving around Kralendijk and visits to the southern and eastern parts of the island, a regular car suffices. The Kia Picanto, Nissan March or similar models are suitable for:

• Paved roads to Lac Bay, Sorobon and the southern salt pans
• Daily use in and around Kralendijk
• Most dive sites on the west coast
• Budget-friendly from $39 per day

Air conditioning is essential at temperatures of 27-32°C. All rental companies now have standard AC, but do check this when booking. Manual cars are the norm on Bonaire, automatic transmission costs $5-10 extra per day.

Pickup trucks for diving and off-road

For divers, pickup trucks are the most popular choice. They offer practical advantages you especially notice with shore diving:

Why divers choose pickup trucks:

• Dive tanks lie safely in the truck bed
• Wet wetsuits dry while driving
• High seating position for overview on unfamiliar roads
• Access to Washington Slagbaai National Park
• Better road holding on unpaved paths

The Toyota Hilux is the standard on Bonaire. AB Car Rental rents them from $49 per day (manual) or $75 (automatic). 4WD isn't always necessary, 2WD pickup trucks can already do a lot. Only for the toughest routes in Washington Slagbaai do you need real 4x4 drive.

SUVs and off-road vehicles

Families with children or groups often prefer SUVs. They offer more comfort than pickup trucks but retain many practical advantages:

• Air conditioning for all passengers
• Closed trunk space for valuable items
• Comfortable for longer trips
• Suitable for light off-road routes

The Suzuki Jimny 4x4 is popular and costs from $65 per day. For real off-road trips to remote beaches or the interior of Washington Slagbaai this is a good middle ground between comfort and capability.

License, age and traffic rules Bonaire

Driving on Bonaire is relaxed but has specific rules and customs that differ from the Netherlands. Here you read what you need to know before getting behind the wheel.

Dutch license validity

Your Dutch license is directly valid on Bonaire, no international license is needed. However, conditions apply:

• Minimum 1 year in possession of your license
• Age between 21-25 years (differs per rental company)
• License must be valid during entire stay

Most rental companies have a minimum age of 23 years. AB Car Rental accepts drivers from 21 years, but then you pay a young driver surcharge. Some luxury cars or 4x4s are only available from 25 years.

Traffic rules specific to Bonaire

On Bonaire you drive right, just like in the Netherlands. Traffic rules are based on the Dutch system but with important differences:

Speed limits:

• 40 km/h within built-up areas
• 60 km/h outside built-up areas
• No speed cameras on the entire island

Special traffic situations:

• No traffic lights on the entire island
• Roundabouts with right of way
• Donkeys and goats on the road (especially near Sorobon)
• Narrow roads without center divider
• Dirt roads in Washington Slagbaai

Honking cars usually mean thank you or saying hi, not irritation. Driving style is relaxed but sometimes unpredictable. Always keep extra distance and anticipate sudden braking or turning without signaling.

Insurance and excess explanation

Car rental insurance can be confusing. On Bonaire conditions vary greatly between rental companies. Here we explain what to watch out for.

Excess waiver options

Standard excess ranges between €500-1500 at most rental companies. You lose this amount with damage, regardless of who's at fault. Fortunately there are options to reduce this risk:

AB Car Rental €0 excess:
AB Car Rental is the only rental company offering true €0 excess. With their comprehensive packages you pay nothing extra for damage. This makes them more expensive per day but can save you money in the end.

All-inclusive packages:
Sunny Cars and other rental companies offer all-inclusive packages where insurance is included. Excess is then often reduced to €150-300. Always check the fine print for exceptions.

Travel insurance coverage:
Many Dutch travel insurances also cover car rental excess. Check this beforehand, it can save you expensive additional insurance.

Credit card requirements and alternatives

Almost all rental companies ask for a credit card as guarantee. The blocked amount varies from $500-2000 and is only released after return. This can take 7-14 days.

AB Car Rental without credit card:
AB Car Rental is the only one offering the possibility to rent without credit card. With their premium packages you pay no deposit. For basic packages you can sometimes leave a cash deposit, but this is more expensive than a credit card guarantee.

Prepaid credit cards:
Prepaid credit cards usually don't work as guarantee, rental companies need a real credit line. Debit cards (Maestro/V-Pay) are also not accepted for the guarantee.

Fuel, parking and practical matters

The daily practice of driving on Bonaire has its peculiarities. From gas stations to parking rules, here you read what you need to know.

Gas stations and fuel prices

Curoil is the main chain with gas stations spread across the island. You'll find them in Kralendijk (multiple locations), at the airport and along main roads. Smaller independent stations fill the gaps.

Fuel prices (2024):

• Gasoline: around $1.40 per liter
• Diesel: around $1.30 per liter
• Prices fluctuate with world market prices

Opening hours and payment:
Most gas stations are open from 6:00-22:00. Some have 24-hour automats. Payment can be cash (USD) or card. Credit cards are widely accepted. Always fill up before entering Washington Slagbaai, there are no gas stations there.

Parking and traffic

Parking on Bonaire is free everywhere except at the airport. There are no parking meters, blue zones or time limits. Do park sensibly:

• Not on private property (hotels, restaurants)
• Not in front of driveways or garage entrances
• Out of the sun where possible, cars become ovens in tropical heat
• Always keep valuables out of sight

Busy times Kralendijk:
Kralendijk center can get busy during cruise ship visits and in the evenings. Parking along the boulevard is then more difficult. Use the free parking areas behind the center.

Animals on the road:
Donkeys and goats roam freely, especially around Lac Bay and in the north. They have no traffic sense, drive carefully and honk friendly to move them away. Hitting them usually means expensive damage and an injured animal.

Most beautiful driving routes and destinations Bonaire

With your rental car you discover Bonaire in all its diversity. From rocky north coast to flat salt pans, each route offers different landscapes and attractions.

North route: Washington Slagbaai National Park

The route to the north is the most adventurous. Washington Slagbaai National Park covers a fifth of the island and requires a high car or 4x4 for the complete experience.

Highlights north route:

• Mount Brandaris (241m) - highest point of Bonaire
• Salina Matijs - large salt pan with flamingos
• Playa Funchi - westernmost beach of the park
• Boca Slagbaai - historic bay with cannons underwater

The park has two routes: green route (24 km) and yellow route (35 km). Both are one-way traffic over dirt roads with sharp stones. A regular car can't make the long route, pickup truck or SUV is needed. The park is open Tuesday-Sunday 8:00-17:00, last entry 14:30.

Entry costs $40 (included in Nature Fee) and gives access to both routes. Bring water and snacks, there are no facilities except at the entrance.

East route: Lac Bay and Sorobon Beach

The east route takes you to the windsurfing spot of Lac Bay. This lagoon is 700 hectares and no deeper than one meter, perfect for beginners and advanced.

Stops east route:

• Sorobon Beach - windsurfing and kitesurfing center
• Mangrove forests Lac Bay - ecologically important natural area
• Jibe City - windsurf school and equipment rental
• Cai Beach - quieter part of Lac Bay

The road to Lac Bay is fully paved and suitable for all cars. Drive carefully, donkeys regularly cross the road here. At Sorobon you'll find beach restaurants, windsurf equipment rental and water sports activities.

South route: salt pans and flamingos

The south route leads along the colorful salt pans where Cargill extracts salt and thousands of flamingos breed. This route is accessible for all cars.

Attractions south route:

• Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary - breeding area of 10,000+ flamingos
• Red and pink salt pans - salt ponds colored by algae
• Saliña Tam - second flamingo location
• White salt mountains Cargill factory

The Flamingo Sanctuary is not accessible to visitors, but you can see the birds well from the road with binoculars. The best viewpoint is at Pink Beach. Drive slowly and don't make noise, disturbance is prohibited and punished.

Route	Distance	Drive time	Road type	Car requirement
North (Washington Slagbaai)	35 km	3-4 hours	Dirt road	Pickup/SUV
East (Lac Bay)	20 km	45 min	Paved	All cars
South (Flamingos)	25 km	1 hour	Paved	All cars

Complete cost overview car rental Bonaire

Car rental costs go beyond just the daily rate. Here we give you a complete overview of all costs you can expect.

Daily rental costs per car type

Prices vary by season and rental company. Low season (May-November) is 20-30% cheaper than high season (December-April).

Economy cars (Kia Picanto, Nissan March):

• Low season: $39-45 per day
• High season: $50-60 per day
• Automatic transmission: +$5-10

SUV and mid-size:

• Low season: $50-65 per day
• High season: $70-85 per day
• Suzuki Jimny 4x4: $65-75

Pickup trucks:

• Toyota Hilux 2WD: $49-65 per day
• Toyota Hilux 4x4: $65-85 per day
• Automatic transmission: +$10-15

Extra costs and hidden fees

Besides the daily rate, extra costs often apply. Count on these beforehand to avoid surprises:

Mandatory extra costs:

• Fuel: $40-80 per week (depending on usage)
• Airport pickup costs: $0-15 (differs per rental company)
• Government tax: 6% on total rental amount

Optional extra costs:

• Additional driver: $5-10 per day
• Young driver surcharge (<25 years): $10-15 per day
• GPS navigation: $5 per day (smartphones work too)
• Child seat: $10 per day
• Insurance: $10-25 per day

Deposit (refunded):

• Economy car: $500-800
• SUV/Pickup: $800-1500
• Credit card required
• Cash alternative at some rental companies

Alternatives to car rental: taxi, scooter and bicycle

Not everyone wants or can rent a car. Fortunately there are alternatives, although they have limitations on an island like Bonaire.

Taxi services and costs Bonaire

Taxis are the most expensive but most carefree option. The island has an official taxi network with fixed rates:

Standard taxi rates:

• $45 per hour for island tours
• Flamingo Airport - Kralendijk center: $15-20
• Kralendijk - Lac Bay: $25-30
• Kralendijk - Washington Slagbaai entrance: $35-40

Taxis are recognizable by the TX on the license plate. For reliable service you can book via +599 717 8100. Many hotels and restaurants can also arrange taxis for you. Expect to book in advance, taxis don't drive around looking for customers.

Scooter and bicycle rental options

For shorter distances and around Kralendijk, scooters and bicycles are alternatives. They do have their limitations on an island with considerable distances and tropical heat.

Scooter rental:

• From $25 per day for a 50cc scooter
• Helmet mandatory (usually included)
• License B sufficient for 50cc
• Range limited to Kralendijk and nearby area

Bicycle rental:

• Mountain bikes from $15 per day
• Touring bikes from $10 per day
• Suitable for Kralendijk and short distances
• Tough with 27-32°C and strong wind

For dive sites and longer distances a car remains the practical choice. Scooters and bicycles are fun for exploring Kralendijk for a day, but not for the entire island.

Booking tips: best deals and reservation strategy

With the right booking strategy you save money and avoid disappointments. Here we share the best tips for car rental Bonaire.

When to book for best prices

Timing is everything with car rental. Bonaire has clear seasons that influence prices:

Early booking advantages:

• 2-3 months ahead: 15-25% cheaper
• Biggest choice in car types
• Pickup trucks are popular and fill up quickly
• Free cancellation at most rental companies

Avoid seasonal peaks:
Christmas, New Year and Carnival (February/March) are the most expensive periods. Prices can be 50-100% higher. Book these periods 4-6 months ahead or choose shoulder periods.

Last-minute availability:
In low season (May-November) you sometimes find last-minute deals. Risk is limited choice, especially pickup trucks are then scarce. For economy cars you have better chances.

Airport pickup vs city

Where you pick up the car influences both convenience and costs. Both options have pros and cons:

Flamingo Airport pickup:

• Straight into the car after landing
• All major rental companies present
• Sometimes extra airport fees ($10-15)
• Can be busy during cruise ship arrivals

Offices in Kralendijk:

• Often cheaper than airport
• More time for explanation and questions
• Free taxi service (AB Car Rental)
• More flexible times

AB Car Rental offers free taxi from the airport to their office, best of both worlds. You save airport costs but don't have to wait.