North and South Tour with Elgin a Local Guide

Kralendijk, BQ

Included

  • inclusion
    Water
  • inclusion
    Transportation via small van, car or pick-up. (Dependent on number of guests) 
  • inclusion
    Guided by a Kind & Knowledgeable Long-Time Bonaire Resident
  • inclusion
    Clean and Safe Vehicle with Air-Conditioning & Working Seatbelts
  • inclusion
    Transportation to and from your Ship or Hotel*Transportation to and from your Ship or Hotel

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Tips are not included

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
BnB Bonaire
Boutique Hotel Sonrisa
Bruce Bowker's Carib Inn
Buddy Dive Resort
Captain Don's Habitat
Caribbean Club Bonaire
Caribbean Court Bonaire - Breezy Bonaire
Casa Atman
Coco Palm Garden & Casa Oleander
Coral Paradise Resort
Corallium Hotel & Villas Bonaire
Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino
Eden Beach Resort Bonaire
Flamingo Intl Airport
Goood Resort
Harbour Village Beach Club
Hotel Bonaire Inn - Friars' Inn
North Pier Bonaire
Plaza Beach & Dive Resort Bonaire
Port Bonaire Residencia
Sand Dollar Bonaire
Sorobon Luxury Beach Resort
South Pier Bonaire
The Bellafonte - Luxury Oceanfront Hotel
Tropical Divers Resort
Important information about your meeting point: Hotel or apartment guests: For the meeting, please meet your guide at the reception, and if you are staying at an apartment, your driver will be at the address you provided on the booking. Your guide will arrive at your pick-up location 15 minutes before the start of your tour to pick you up. We will notify you if there are any changes. Cruise Ship Guests: Your guide will welcome you with your first or last name on a sign in front of the cruise ship exit/entry gate where your ship is docked. Walking away from your ship, you will approach a security checkpoint gate. When you exit the gate, walk straight forward, and look straight ahead. Your guide will be there 15 minutes before the start of your tour to collect you. Please Note: If your tour starts at 08:30 Local Time, your guide will pick you up 15 minutes (08:15) before the start time of your tour. IMPORTANT: We are reminding you that ship and local times might differ. Please check it before the Tour starts time. Very IMPORTANT: If you don't see your guide with your name, please stay at the gate of your ship and do NOT walk away and look for your companion; let your guide look for you. Guests who book a private tour will not share vehicles with other guests. Our goal is for our guests to leave the Island happier than when they arrived.

What to expect

1

Bonaire Cruise Port

Here we will start our tours when you arrive by cruise ship. We will meet you 15 minutes before your tour departure time to ensure we start our tour on time. When you exit your ship, please walk to the security gate (there will be only one security gate) and look straight ahead, where you will see a sign saying Internet booking. We will be standing there with your name on paper. If you are from a Hotel or Apartment, we will pick you up at your apartment or in the lobby at your hotel.

Duration 15 minutes
2

Kralendijk

We will give you a city/town tour through downtown Kaya Grandi. Kaya Grandi is the Main Street, where all the shops/restaurants and ice cream shops are in Kralendijk. After the tour, you can feel free to be dropped off in Kralendijk, where you will be able to do some shopping and walk around. If you are from the ship, Kralendijk is only a 5 or 1 min walk away from your ship where the cruise ship ports are.

3

Harbour Village Marina

That is where we have boats coming in for shelter when big waves come toward the Island.

4

Trans World Radio Bonaire (TWR)

You will be able to take a nice picture of the wonders of the sea. That is going to be a pleasant surprise for you.

5

Hato

We will be driving through a neighbourhood called Hato, where most hotels are situated.

6

Sabadeco

Here you will see the most affluent part of the Island, and your tour guide will share with you why the rich people are coming to Bonaire.

7

1000 Steps

Here you will be able to get off the vehicle, walk around, and take some pictures of the beautiful scenery of the clear blue ocean. If you don't want to walk down to the beach because of the Steps, that is no problem. You can stay at the top and enjoy the beautiful view.

Duration 10 minutes
8

Tolo Divesite (Ol' Blue, 13)

From a distance, you will see the beautiful scenery from where the water level was many years ago and one of the best Diving spots on the island.

9

landhuis Karpata

Here we will share the history of when the enslaved people were living on Bonaire, and you will see the building where the women and the children were staying during the week while the man continued going to the south side of the Island.

10

BOPEC

Your tour guide will share and show you some of our oil tanks and why we have them here on Bonaire.

11

Goto Zout- en Flamingomeer

Here you see the beautiful scenery of the flamingo in the background and the tallest hill on the island called Brandaris. Here you will not get out of the car since it is a reserved area for the flamingoes, and we are not allowed to let our guests get out of the vehicle, but you will be able to take pictures of the Flamingoes while your tour guide is driving. Depending on the day, you will see the flamingoes very close up; sometimes, they are far away.

Duration 10 minutes
12

Rincon

Rincon is the oldest town on the Island, where everything started many years ago. You will still see the oldest buildings on the Island and the lovely scenery of why Rincon was chosen many years ago when Bonaire was discovered.

13

The Cadushy Distillery

Here you will see how they make liquor and spirits from local cactus, and you can have a complimentary tasting. Please remember that the distillery is open from 10 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Saturday!

Duration 15 minutes
14

Bonaire Landsailing Adventures

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Here you will see the splashing waves hitting the cliffs on the coastline with sometimes a lot of donkeys walking around until we reach downtown. We will also be passing right next to Bonaire Landsailing, where you can see people sailing on land.

15

Seru Largu

We will be going up to a hill where you will be able to see Bonaire from above.

Duration 5 minutes
16

North Saliña

That is the second old neighbourhood on the Island where the Indians have moved.

17

Antriol

That is the largest neighbourhood in Bonaire.

18

Bonaire

Here your guide will tell you more about the inter Bonaire main street.

19

Bonaire International Airport (BON)

Here you will see our pink airport, and we will share about tourism and flight arriving and departing from Bonaire.

20

Te Amo Beach

Te Amo Beach, meaning "I Love You" Beach, is a beautiful public spot near Bonaire's airport. It has a tranquil and sandy shoreline with easy access to the water. 

Duration 5 minutes
21

Donkey Beach

That is a lovely beach where local family and friends gather on the weekends and for celebrations. 

22

Belnem

That is a fast-growing neighbourhood on the Island.

23

Bachelor's Beach

That is a Local Beach with very clear water.

24

Punt Vierkant Apartments

Here you can see one of the ancient lighthouses on Bonaire with great history.

25

Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire

That is a new resort with a lovely pool. This resort has a pool where you can sit and order your food from within the pool.

26

Hilma Hooker

You can see here a ship wrack, a famous spot for divers.

27

Salt Pier

We will stop at the pink water and the salt mountains so you can walk around and take pictures. That is the most beautiful stop on the Island because on your right-hand side, you will see the two blue colours of the ocean, and on your left-hand side, you will see the pink water with the white foam on the ground coming out from the salt water.

Duration 10 minutes
28

Slave Huts at White Pan

Here you will see the Slaves Huts, where you will be able to experience how the enslaved people were working on the Island and where they were sleeping during the week. We'll be taking some time talking about the corals. That is the last stop, and from here, we will drive you back to the ship. It is a great time to ask still questions you may have to your tour guide. Please NOTE: we will have everyone from the cruise ship back to the cruise ship terminal 1 hour before the ship's departure time.

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Bonaire Tours Center

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local cuisine at nearby Rum Runners.
  • icon
    Visit the Cadushy Distillery before noon.
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    Don't miss the sunset at Te Amo Beach.
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    Bring a camera for Salt Pier's stunning views.
  • icon
    Ask your guide about hidden gems along the route.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Bonaire with the North and South Tour guided by Elgin, a friendly local who knows the island like the back of his hand. This unique three-hour adventure is designed to showcase 28 key points of interest, from stunning coastal views to rich historical landmarks. By limiting group sizes to a maximum of twenty, Elgin ensures a personalized experience that allows guests to ask questions, interact, and truly immerse themselves in the local vibe. This tour is not just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the essence of Bonaire as you are whisked away in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle that offers pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or cruise ship. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone looking to soak up the sun, this tour is tailor-made to leave you with unforgettable memories of this Caribbean paradise.

What to expect?

Expect an adventure filled with insights and sights that few get to experience! Elgin takes you on a journey that weaves together Bonaire's stunning landscapes, captivating history, and the vibrant energy of its culture. You’ll witness the stunning pink waters at the Salt Pier, visit the oldest town, Rincon, and learn about the island's intriguing past, including stories of enslaved peoples and the cultural influences that shaped Bonaire. Elgin's friendly and knowledgeable guidance ensures that no stone is left unturned, as he shares tales of local cuisine, economy, and life on the island. With the flexibility to customize your experience, you can indulge your curiosity and perhaps even venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems. Prepare for a mix of breathtaking views, historical narratives, and the warm hospitality of Bonaire that will leave you wanting more.

Who is this for?

The North and South Tour with Elgin is perfect for a diverse range of travelers! Whether you are a solo adventurer eager to explore new cultures, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a family wanting to spend quality time together, this tour caters to all. Those with varying physical abilities will appreciate that the tour is designed to accommodate everyone, including wheelchair users. Even infants are welcome, as parents can easily ensure their comfort during the trip. Adventure seekers will revel in the opportunity to see pristine beaches and vibrant local life, while history enthusiasts will soak in the rich narratives that Elgin shares along the way. Regardless of your background or interests, this tour is tailored to create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the beauty of Bonaire.

Why book this?

Booking the North and South Tour with Elgin means investing in a unique travel experience that prioritizes quality over quantity. Unlike larger, impersonal tours, Elgin's small group setting allows for genuine connections between guests and the guide, fostering a fun and engaging atmosphere. With the insider knowledge of a local, guests gain access to stories and locations that are often overlooked, allowing for a deeper understanding of Bonaire’s culture and history. The convenience of pick-up and drop-off adds to the appeal, ensuring that your experience is smooth from start to finish. Plus, with the option for customization, you have the chance to create a tour that feels uniquely yours. Elgin’s enthusiasm for his homeland shines through, making the experience not just informative but truly enjoyable. Don't miss out on the chance to explore Bonaire with someone who loves it as much as you will!

Good to know

Before setting off on this incredible journey, it’s helpful to know a few things to enhance your experience. The North and South Tour is thoughtfully crafted to be accessible to everyone, with transportation options that accommodate mobility needs. Elgin encourages guests to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as there will be opportunities to walk and explore at various stops. Don’t forget to bring your camera—there will be countless picture-perfect moments, especially at stunning spots like the Salt Pier and 1000 Steps. Additionally, while water is provided during the tour, guests are encouraged to stay hydrated and can bring their own refreshments if desired. Remember to leave a little room in your heart for the island's charm; you might find yourself wanting to return long after the tour concludes.

Reviews

Guests who have experienced the North and South Tour with Elgin rave about the unforgettable moments they’ve shared. Many commend Elgin's friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge, noting how he made them feel like part of the Bonaire family. Travelers appreciate the well-paced itinerary that allowed them to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Feedback highlights the stunning visual experiences, especially at the Salt Pier, where the contrast of colors captured in photographs is nothing short of magical. Reviewers often mention the engaging storytelling that brings the island's history to life, creating a deeper connection to the places visited. The small group size is frequently praised, as it fosters a sense of camaraderie among guests. Overall, participants leave with a sense of fulfillment and a desire to explore more of what Bonaire has to offer, often recommending the tour to friends and family as a must-do when visiting the island.

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