Getting Around Bonaire. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Comprehensive Overview of Public Transit Systems

Bonaire operates without a structured public bus or metro system. This means scheduled routes and designated stops are non-existent. The concept of route maps and important hubs does not apply to Bonaire's transportation landscape.

Ticketing systems and fare options for public transit do not exist. Opening hours and frequency are not relevant, as there is no formal public transit schedule. Accessibility information concerning public transit is not applicable. Relying on public transportation is not feasible for exploring Bonaire. Visitors consider other options for getting around.

Public Transport Facts

No formal public bus network.
No metro system.
No scheduled routes, designated stops, or ticketing.
Not a feasible option to discover the island.

No Fixed Routes

Public transport lacks predefined routes.

No Fare System

There are no established fare options.

Alternative Travel

Consider walking, cycling, or rentals instead.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Information

Taxis are available at Flamingo International Airport, major hotels, and by phone.
Look for typically white vans with "Taxi" signs.
Fares are generally fixed for common routes (e.g., airport to Kralendijk); confirm fare before starting.

Payment and Safety

Fares are in United States Dollars (USD); cash is preferred, some may accept cards.
Taxis are generally safe and regulated; choose licensed taxis for reliability.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are not available in Bonaire.

Taxi Service At a Glance

Availability

Airport, hotels, by phone.

Identification

White vans with "Taxi" signs.

Fares

Fixed rates for common routes.

Ride-Sharing

Not available.

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle offers the most flexibility and convenience for exploring Bonaire, especially for divers.

Car Rental Procedures & Requirements

Book well in advance, especially for high season or specific vehicle types (dive truck).
Valid driver's license from home country. IDP useful if license not in widely recognized language.
Credit card for deposit is needed.
Minimum driving age typically 21, could be different by company (some 25+).

Vehicle Choices & Companies

For divers, a pick-up truck is highly recommended for transporting dive gear.
For non-divers, a compact car is sufficient for island exploration.
International companies: Budget, Hertz, Avis.
Local Bonairean companies: AB Car Rental, Total Car Rental, often knowledgeable about diver needs.

Motorcycle, Scooter, and Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available from local operators.
Helmets are usually provided and advised for safety.
Bicycles work well for Kralendijk and nearby areas.

Bicycle rentals from some hotels and dedicated shops.
Bonaire does not operate a formal bike-sharing program.
No specialty vehicle options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

Driving Laws, Road Conditions, and Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Speed limits in km/h: 40 km/h (25 mph) in residential, 60 km/h (37 mph) outside towns, 80 kilometers per hour (50 mph) on main roads. Mobile phone use while driving is illegal.

Road Conditions

Main roads are paved and generally well-maintained. Roads to some dive sites and within Washington Slagbaai National Park can be unpaved, rocky, and call for caution. Higher clearance can be useful.

Parking Info

Generally, ample no-cost parking is available throughout the island, especially at dive sites and attractions. In Kralendijk, street parking could be restricted, but paid parking lots are available.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer pleasant ways to explore certain areas, especially Kralendijk.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas and Walking Routes

Kralendijk's downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks making walking pleasant for shops and waterfront.
Outside Kralendijk, walking is mainly along roadsides, which may lack dedicated sidewalks.
Self-guided walks are popular in Kralendijk for touring its charming shops and architecture.
Be mindful of traffic when walking outside designated pedestrian areas.

Bicycle Infrastructure and Safety

Bonaire has limited dedicated bike lanes. Cyclists share roads with vehicles.
Wearing a Helmet and bright clothing is advised for safety, especially on main roads.
Very few specific "no-go" areas exist. Avoid walking long distances outside well-lit areas after dark due to lack of lighting and wildlife.
Be careful about wildlife (donkeys, goats) on roads, specifically at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Hop-on-Hop-off

Several tour operators offer guided island tours. No formal hop-on-hop-off bus services are available.

Explore with a local guide.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Water taxis operate regularly between Kralendijk and Klein Bonaire. Klein Bonaire is ideal for snorkeling and pristine beaches.

Access offshore island easily.

Accessibility Services

Accessibility infrastructure in Bonaire is limited. Many establishments and sidewalks could have limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.

Contact providers in advance.

Further Specialized Transport Notes

Unique Local Transport

Bonaire has no cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems of this nature.
The focus is on practical land and water based transport.
Mainly self-driven vehicles or taxis for land travel.