Bonaire is built on limestone, and beneath the dry scrub the rock is riddled with caves, some easy to walk into and others partly flooded. The Tourism Corporation Bonaire notes that the island’s caves are part of its ecosystem, with formations to see, some of them easy to visit and others flooded. This guided tour takes you underground to explore them with a local guide, combining some scrambling and climbing with a snorkel stop in cave water, as the title says. It is a very different outing from the island’s reef trips, with rock formations, dark chambers and quiet pools in place of fish and sunshine. The tour is well rated, with close to a hundred reviews averaging above four and a half stars, which gives confidence that guides handle the terrain and safety well. It is best suited to people who are comfortable with uneven ground, enclosed spaces and getting wet and dirty. Expect a briefing and a guide who explains how the caves formed and what lives in them.
Why it works
It adds an entirely different kind of Bonaire to your trip. After days of reef and sea, going underground shows another side of the island’s geology and ecosystems, and it is a good option for a hot afternoon, a windy day or a day when the sea is rough. Children old enough to scramble over rocks often love it, as do adults who like a bit of physical challenge.
What to wear and know
Bring sturdy closed shoes that can get wet and muddy, a swimsuit under your clothes, a towel and a change of clothes, along with water and insect repellent. Expect to climb and crawl in places, so avoid carrying valuables in a bag you cannot keep clear of mud. Check the fitness, age and health requirements at booking, and tell the guide beforehand if you are claustrophobic or nervous in the dark. As in any cave, follow the guide’s instructions and do not touch or remove formations or disturb wildlife.
Fitting it in
The tour is a good partner to a morning at the salt pans or a self-drive around the north, since it lets you swap the water for rock. If you prefer something gentler, the donkey sanctuary or Kralendijk waterfront is a better fit. If you like caving or hiking in other destinations, this is a good value outing, and photographers will find it rewarding. Book a few days ahead in the busy winter and spring months.
What to expect
The experience
A guided cave visit with some climbing and a snorkel in cave water, led by a local guide who explains the geology and wildlife.
Best time
Any day works, which makes it a good plan for hot afternoons or rough-sea days.
How long
Plan on a few hours including the briefing and travel.
Tips
Wear sturdy closed shoes that can get wet, bring a towel and a change of clothes, and tell the guide about any health concerns.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adventurous travelers who want something different from reef trips.
- Families
- Good for older children who can scramble over rocks; check minimum age and fitness requirements.
- Couples
- A shared adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.
- Pair with
- The southern salt pans, the donkey sanctuary or Rincon.
- Time needed
- A half day including travel and clean-up.
Good questions
Do I need to be fit for the cave tour?+
You need to be comfortable with uneven ground, some climbing and getting wet. Check the fitness and age requirements at booking and tell the guide about any health issues.
Will I get dirty?+
Yes, so wear clothes and shoes you do not mind getting wet and muddy. Bring a towel and a change of clothes for afterward.
Is it safe for claustrophobic people?+
Some passages are enclosed, so it may not suit everyone. Speak with the guide ahead of time about what to expect.
Can I take photos?+
Usually yes, but protect your camera from water and mud. A waterproof case is a good idea.
What is the snorkel like?+
It is a short swim in cave water, which is calm, dark and quiet. It is not a reef snorkel, so expect rock and still water rather than fish.
