Bonaire is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in the Caribbean. However, like any specialized travel spot—especially one focused so heavily on nature and diving—there are specific logistical hurdles that can catch visitors off guard.
If you are wondering what to avoid in Bonaire, this guide highlights the most common mistakes travelers make and how Fiestatours Bonaire can help you bypass them for a perfect trip.
1. Avoid Arriving Without Paying the Entry Tax ✈️
One of the biggest modern headaches for travelers is the mandatory tourist entry fee.
- The Mistake: Waiting until you land at Airport Bonaire to figure out the payment.
- The Solution: Always pay the fee online before your flight to avoid long queues and technical delays at the arrival gate.
Make sure you have your digital receipt ready. See our step-by-step guide: Bonaire Visitor Entry Tax Guide
2. Avoid Renting the Wrong Type of Vehicle 🚗
Bonaire is the world capital of shore diving, but its terrain is rugged and arid.
- The Mistake: Renting a small, low-clearance sedan if you plan to dive or explore the north.
- The Solution: You absolutely need a high-clearance dive truck. Standard cars struggle with the unpaved roads leading to the best reefs and the Bonaire Park.
Don’t get stuck in the mud or sand. Secure the right vehicle for the island: Bonaire Dive Truck Rentals Guide
3. Avoid Forgetting Your STINAPA Tag 🐠
The waters surrounding Bonaire are a protected Marine Park. Access is a privilege, not a right.
- The Mistake: Entering the water for diving or snorkeling without your digital nature tag.
- The Solution: Purchase your STINAPA tag online before your first dip. This funds the conservation of the reefs we all love.
Learn how your contribution protects the marine life: Coral Reef Conservation and Marine Species Guide
4. Avoid Sun Overexposure ☀️
As we’ve discussed, temperatures in Bonaire are very high. The cooling breeze is deceptive.
- The Mistake: Underestimating the equatorial sun and skipping hydration or reef-safe sunscreen.
- The Solution: Drink plenty of water and wear UV-protective clothing. Avoid the sun’s peak hours when possible.
Stay comfortable even when the sun is at its strongest: Temperatures in Bonaire are Very High: Survival & Comfort Guide
5. Avoid Touching or Stepping on the Coral 🚫🪸
Bonaire’s reefs are incredibly close to the shore, which makes them vulnerable.
- The Mistake: Using gloves while diving (which is prohibited) or standing on coral heads during shore entries.
- The Solution: Practice good buoyancy and use designated entry and exit points at all Best Dive Sites Bonaire.
6. Avoid Staying Only in the City Center
While the City of Bonaire (Kralendijk) is charming, the island’s true beauty is spread out.
- The Mistake: Spending your entire vacation within walking distance of Kaya Grandi.
- The Solution: Use your rental truck to explore the southern salt flats and the northern wilderness.
Discover the layout of the island to plan your escapes: Kaya Grandi Bonaire Maps Shopping Guide
7. Avoid Booking Logistics Separately
Coordination is the hidden challenge of a Bonaire trip.
- The Mistake: Managing separate bookings for your stay, your truck, and your tanks.
- The Solution: Choose a bundled package. Fiestatours Bonaire integrates these essentials, ensuring that your truck is ready when you land and your accommodation is dive-friendly.
Simplify your life by choosing an all-in-one solution: Bonaire Dive and Stay Packages
🤝 Let Fiestatours Bonaire Handle the Details
The best way to know what to avoid in Bonaire is to have a local partner who has already smoothed the path for you. At Fiestatours Bonaire, we ensure you skip the stress and jump straight into the adventure.
Ready to plan a mistake-free vacation? How to Plan Your Ultimate Bonaire Trip
Don’t leave your trip to chance. Contact Fiestatours Bonaire today to secure your logistics and local support! Contact Our Planning Experts
