The Bonaire National Marine Park (BNMP) is one of the oldest marine reserves in the world. It includes the sea around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire from the high water line to a depth of sixty meters. The park was established in 1979 and covers 2700 hectares and includes a coral reef, seagrass, and mangrove vegetation. The Lac Bay lagoon is also part of the underwater park.\n\nBonaire National Marine Park is one of the most-loved nature destinations around Bonaire — a Caribbean landscape preserved for future generations.\n\nWHAT YOU'LL FIND\n- Tropical vegetation: palms, mangroves, ferns, tropical hardwoods\n- Endemic and migratory bird species — bring binoculars\n- Hiking trails of varying difficulty\n- Scenic viewpoints, photo opportunities\n- Sometimes: small waterfalls, caves, freshwater pools, lookouts\n\nWHAT TO BRING\n- Sturdy walking shoes (sneakers, hiking boots, not flip-flops)\n- Water (1-2 litres per person)\n- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+ for jungle areas)\n- Hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen\n- Light rain jacket (tropical showers are common)\n- Camera and spare battery\n- Snacks for longer hikes\n\nWHEN TO VISIT\nBest in the dry season (December–April). Wet season (June–November) brings lush vegetation but also rain, mud, and increased mosquito presence. Early morning (6–9 AM) is best for wildlife sightings; late afternoon for soft photo light.\n\nSAFETY\nStick to marked trails. Hire a local guide for longer hikes or if you're unfamiliar with Caribbean terrain. Tell someone your route and expected return time. Mobile coverage can be patchy in remote areas — download an offline map.\n\nThis is the kind of Caribbean experience that travellers remember years later — beyond the resort fence, in genuine nature.