Renting a car in Bonaire is essential for fully experiencing the island's stunning beauty, renowned for its coral reefs and exceptional shore diving. With public transport options limited, independent travel is crucial to access scattered dive sites, salt pans, and the rugged landscapes of Washington Slagbaai National Park. Those planning to rent a car should weigh important factors to ensure a seamless and enjoyable holiday. By exploring the top ten considerations in this guide, travellers can turn a potential logistical challenge into a memorable Caribbean road trip adventure.
Before you even book your flight, you must understand the requirements for legally driving a car on the island. For most visitors, a valid driving licence from their home country is sufficient for short-term rentals, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is typically not mandatory. However, if your driving licence is not in English, it is best to get an IDP.
Rental companies often impose stricter rules. The minimum age for renting a car in Bonaire is commonly 21 years old, and some companies may even require the driver to have held their licence for a minimum period, sometimes two years. Younger drivers, generally those under 25, may also be subject to an additional 'young driver' surcharge, significantly impacting the overall cost.
Furthermore, a major credit card in the main driver’s name is almost universally required for the security deposit, even if the final rental fee is paid with a debit card or cash. It is vital to confirm these requirements with the specific rental company before arrival to avoid disappointment and unforeseen charges.
The rental agreement is the most important document you will sign, and reading it meticulously is non-negotiable. This contract will detail the terms and conditions that govern your use of the vehicle and will supersede any verbal promises. Pay particular attention to clauses concerning the vehicle's permitted use. Many standard contracts strictly prohibit driving off-road or in certain areas, most notably within the Washington Slagbaai National Park, which has notoriously rough, unpaved roads. If your travel itinerary includes this park, you must specifically rent a vehicle, usually a four-wheel-drive or a rugged pick-up, that is explicitly authorised for park access.
For many divers visiting Bonaire, the agreement must also clarify the policy on transporting dive gear. Some companies allow or even cater for the transport of wet, sandy equipment in the open bed of a pick-up truck, while others prohibit carrying gear inside the passenger cabin, which is a key distinction for vehicle selection. Lastly, clarify the fuel policy, usually ‘full-to-full’, and the associated penalties for returning the tank less than full.
Understanding the offered insurance policies is critical for peace of mind in Bonaire. While all rental vehicles are mandated to have basic Third-Party Liability coverage, this only covers damage you inflict on other people or property, not damage to your rental car. Also, the Collision Damage Waiver, often included in the rate, will leave you liable for a substantial excess or deductible, which can run to hundreds of US dollars.
Given the island's varied road surfaces, the risk of minor scratches, damages, or scrapes is higher than in many places. This is why many tourists opt for a zero-excess or all-inclusive insurance package, which, despite a higher upfront cost, entirely removes the deductible, providing complete financial security against damage to the vehicle.
Carefully check if the insurance covers damage to tyres, windows, and the undercarriage, as these are often excluded from basic waivers. Reviewing personal car insurance, travel insurance, and credit card benefits for pre-existing rental coverage can also prevent purchasing redundant policies.
A basic knowledge of traffic laws will ensure both your safety and compliance on Bonaire's roads. The island operates a right-hand driving system. Seatbelt usage is compulsory for all occupants. The general speed limits are relatively low: typically 40 kph in towns and 60 kph on open roads.
A few key rules differ from common international practice: at equal intersections, the driver coming from the right generally has the right-of-way, and you must come to a complete stop at all stop signs. Furthermore, drivers must be acutely aware of wandering wildlife, especially wild donkeys and goats, which frequently cross roads and necessitate cautious driving, especially at dusk and dawn. Failure to stop for these animals can result in a significant accident and hefty repair costs, for which the driver will be liable.
While the main roads around Kralendijk are typically paved and in good repair, the overall road conditions across Bonaire are variable. Many of the most scenic routes leading to dive sites, beaches, and the national park are unpaved, consisting of rough dirt, gravel, or coral rock. These surfaces demand a vehicle with higher ground clearance and robust tyres. After a rainfall, unpaved roads can become muddy and extremely slippery.
Even well-maintained paved roads can have potholes or speed bumps that are not always clearly marked. The southern part of the island, particularly near the salt flats and the slave huts, offers magnificent scenery but is accessed via somewhat rougher tracks. Drivers should always maintain a defensive and cautious approach, driving slowly and deliberately, especially when exploring areas outside the main town, to prevent damage to the undercarriage and tyres, both of which are common sources of excess charges.
The time of year you visit has a profound effect on the car rental market. Bonaire’s peak season, which generally runs from the Christmas holidays through to the end of April, sees a massive surge in demand for rental cars, particularly the ubiquitous pick-up trucks popular with divers. During this period, the island's finite fleet of rental vehicles is quickly booked out. Consequently, prices are at their highest, and vehicle selection is severely limited.
Attempting to secure a rental car upon arrival during the peak season is highly discouraged, as you risk not finding a suitable vehicle at all or paying an exorbitant, last-minute rate for a less-than-ideal car. Conversely, during the low season, roughly May to November, prices are lower, and availability is excellent, allowing for more flexibility and choice.
Your travel itinerary should be the primary factor guiding your car rental choice. Bonaire is small enough to drive from end to end in under an hour, so a basic compact car is adequate for general sightseeing and short trips around the main areas. However, if your itinerary is centred around diving, a pick-up truck is the de facto standard.
Pick-ups allow for the easy and safe transport of dive tanks and wet gear in the open bed, preventing the salt and sand damage that would ruin a closed-cabin passenger vehicle and violate many rental agreements. If you plan to visit the rugged north and the Washington Slagbaai National Park, a four-wheel-drive vehicle (4x4) or a robust SUV is necessary to handle the challenging, unpaved roads and comply with the park’s own vehicle regulations. Matching the car type to your planned activities is a financial and practical necessity.
Car selection involves more than just picking a model; it is about choosing the right tool for the job. As established, divers often require a pick-up truck. Even if you are not diving, an air-conditioned car is a near necessity due to the intense tropical heat. While an open-air vehicle might sound appealing, the scorching sun makes air conditioning a comfort that quickly becomes a requirement for a pleasant journey.
Beyond the vehicle type, examine the specifics of the car you are offered. Inspect the tyres for wear, as damaged or poorly maintained tyres will be your liability on the rough roads. Check the ground clearance and ensure the vehicle is in a generally good state of repair. It is wise to rent from companies known for vehicles that are well-maintained and island-appropriate.
The most effective way to save money and ensure the availability of your preferred vehicle, especially during the peak season, is advanced booking. As soon as your flights are confirmed, the car rental should be the next item on your list. Booking several weeks or even months ahead secures a better rate than last-minute reservations and guarantees you will get a pick-up or a 4x4 if those are required for your itinerary.
Booking in advance also allows time to thoroughly compare rates and insurance options from both international chains and reputable local Bonairean rental companies, which often offer competitive rates and more diver-friendly policies. Confirming your booking and all its details in writing is a crucial final step.
Finally, knowing how to access emergency services and the rental company’s support network is paramount. Before driving away, ensure you have the rental company's 24-hour emergency roadside assistance number, and store it safely in your phone. In the event of an accident, even a minor one, you are typically required to contact the rental company and the local road service immediately; failure to do so can void your insurance coverage. The emergency number for the general police is 911.
Be prepared for the possibility of minor mishaps, such as a flat tyre or mechanical trouble, which are common on the rougher tracks. Understanding the protocol for a breakdown or an accident—who to call and what documentation is required—will expedite the process and minimise disruption to your holiday.
Renting a car in Bonaire is essential for transforming a pleasant island visit into a truly immersive adventure. The freedom to chase the sun to any of the 70 dive sites, to explore the historic village of Rincon, or to traverse the wild terrain of the National Park is a flexibility that no other mode of transport can offer.
By methodically addressing the ten essential considerations—from securing the right licence and understanding the fine print of the rental agreement, to wisely selecting a vehicle suitable for Bonaire’s unique road conditions and booking well in advance—you lay the groundwork for a seamless and safe journey. Do not let logistical concerns limit your experience of this stunning Caribbean island. Take the plunge and book your ideal rental vehicle on Final Rentals today. Your independent, unforgettable Bonaire road trip is just a signature away.
