Stay safe. Respect the island. Arrive alive.
Practical, no-nonsense tips for driving and moving around Bonaire — for visitors, residents and divers.
- No beach driving. Never drive on beaches, salt pans or dunes. Protect turtles, birds and fragile ecosystems.
- Phone away. Keep full attention on traffic. Pull over safely if you must use your phone.
- Belts & helmets. Seatbelts are standard; helmets strongly recommended on scooters and required for off-road riding.
Driving basics on Bonaire
Speeds & surfaces
Many roads are unpaved with potholes and loose gravel. Drive by sight, not by habit. Reduce speed in neighborhoods and near cyclists, pedestrians and donkeys.
- Expect sudden dips, washboard and dust clouds. Keep distance.
- After rain: mud and hidden holes — brake gently, avoid sharp steering.
- Roundabouts: give way to traffic already on the roundabout.
Behavior & responsibility
Keep it courteous and predictable. Signal early, don’t block narrow roads, and park without damaging vegetation.
- Never leave trash or cigarette butts. Take it with you.
- Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Designate a sober driver.
- Night: lower speed; animals and cyclists are harder to see.
Pickup trucks, dive sites & theft prevention
At dive sites
Park smart, out of traffic flow. Don’t block access for emergency or service vehicles.
Valuables
Leave valuables at your stay. Keep windows slightly open and doors unlocked to avoid damage; take only what you need.
Tank handling
Secure tanks, avoid rolling in the bed. Strap gear so it can’t become a projectile during braking.
Respect nature: Stay on marked roads. Do not drive on beaches or through salt flats. Rinse gear at designated stations only.
Scooters, e-bikes & bicycles
- Wear a helmet and closed shoes. Gloves recommended on gravel.
- Watch for sand patches and oil near intersections — low grip.
- Be visible at dusk/dawn. Use lights and reflective elements.
- Yield with care. Assume others may not see you.
- Strong crosswinds can push you. Keep a safety margin.
- Hydrate often; heat and sun reduce focus quickly.
Donkeys, goats & birds on the road
Animals cross unpredictably, especially at dusk. Brake in a straight line; don’t swerve into oncoming traffic or off the road.
- Keep extra distance at night and near vegetation.
- If you hit an animal, call emergency services and wait in a safe place.
Emergencies & assistance
Emergency
911
Police, fire, ambulance — provide location landmarks and nearest intersection or dive site marker.
After a crash
- Warn traffic; stay visible and safe.
- Call 911 for injuries or major damage. Exchange details calmly.
- Document with photos; contact rental company/insurer.
No dive booked yet? Wanderlust Bonaire can help
From first-time try-dives to guided shore diving and advanced training, Wanderlust Bonaire offers small groups, patient instructors and a strong safety focus.
- Personal pacing & clear briefings.
- Shore-diving expertise — classic and lesser-known sites.
- Flexible scheduling for your holiday rhythm.
FAQ & responsible travel
Insurance & rental
Verify coverage for unpaved roads and water damage. Photograph the vehicle at pickup and return.
Nature rules
Use marked parking. Don’t crush vegetation or coral rubble. Keep distance from wildlife.
Heat & hydration
Carry water and shade. Fatigue and sun reduce reaction time; plan breaks.