Hi all. After being in Bonaire for two visits we have decided that this is going to be the year for the park. In other words we want to spend some time up there doing snorkelling and exploring. Which would be the best vehicle for comfort? I have a dubious back which is why this is so important. We will do it at the end of our stay just in case
(and take full insurance on the vehicle).

Any suggestions for the best vehicle and recommended rental agency would be appreciated.
Thanks

Hi Carey, Going by what you said you want (Full Insurance) I would suggest A/B Rental, Grp. 2 Truck as I believe they are the only agency that offers FULL insurance.

I've been to the park with a Mitsubishi Van in July.
I took the long tour.
I had no problems at all; the roads were very good.
I would not mind driving a "normal" car there too. The tyres should be in good shape though.

I would recommend that you start at the opening hours of the park.
Bring at least 2 liters of water per person.
The museum at the entrance is worth visiting.
Don't forget to snorkel at Wayaka II


(Message edited by bpsmits on September 9, 2008)

Just make sure to read the fine print on the insurance, some policies do not coverage damage due to travel on unpaved roads, specifically the park.

Hi Carey,
I agree with Debbie. AB (no, I'm not affiliated with them) is the only agency who provides full insurance but, read the fine print.
You are only allowed to enter the park with a 4x4 or a truck because of the ground clearance. The park's staff will stop any "normal" cars at the entrance.
There are only 2 tours around the park and once on the trail you are not able to turn back or take a short cut.
The 6 hour tour takes you along the north/eastern and northern coast line to join the 4 hour tour which has cut across, at the north/western side.
Take plenty of water (at least 3 liters) and bring some snacks, once in the park there are no snacks and drinks stalls.
I also agree with Bob regarding the museum and the snorkeling and I would add the Boca Slagbaai left side. Not so much because of the beautiful corrals but on the corner you will find 2 canons on the bottom.

Regarding the type of car,...... well..... that's a bit up to taste. Keep in mind it is all dirt roads and some are quite bumpy. Let's just say that a Jeep is build for these kind of roads (especially with a dubious back and all).

I am sure you will enjoy Bonaire above just as much as you enjoy Bonaire beyond.

Ah, just read the part about your back, what are ya crazy? Stay outta of the park, I don't care what you drive through there, it will be bumpity, bumpity, bumpity, BUMP! Lots of other places on Bonaire to explore & snorkel less stressful on the back, but that just my two cents.

yeah, I know I might pay the price of the bumps but I do so want to do the park and thats why it will happen at the end of my trip rather than the beginning. This might be our last trip to Bonaire for a while as we are contemplating Belize next year instead.

O.K. then, enjoy, but do the short route, easier on the back and all the good snorkeling is towards the end of the park IMHO.