Washington Slagbaai park Bonaire:
The place for nature lovers and adventurers!
A vacation on Bonaire is only truly complete with a visit to Slagbaai Bonaire. This national park on the northern side of the island spans no less than 5,643 hectares, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. Whether you are a fan of birdwatching, snorkeling, hiking, or mountain biking, there is something for everyone in Washington Slagbaai Park Bonaire. To explore the park to the fullest, we recommend renting a car, which you can easily arrange through our own car rental service, Car Rental Bonaire.
Slagbaai Park is a perfect place to snorkel on Bonaire.
A fantastic place to snorkel on Bonaire is Wayaka Beach, named after the many Wayaka lignum vitae trees that grow here. There are a total of three beaches, but we recommend visiting Wayaka 2. This public sandy beach is the perfect location for snorkeling, for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. You reach the beach via a stone staircase. In the relatively shallow water, you enter a completely different world. Below the surface, you will find breathtaking corals, colorful fish, and have a good chance of encountering sea turtles. If Wayaka 2 is busy, you can also go to Boka Slagbaai, where you can explore the historical remains of the former plantation that was once home to Slagbaai National Park Bonaire.
A paradise for birdwatchers
Slagbaai Park on Bonaire offers an impressive diversity of ecosystems. In the park, you will find dry forests full of cacti and divi-divi trees, mangroves, salt lakes and pools, and of course, an extensive coastline; it is a true paradise for countless bird species. This is the place to observe flamingos, parrots, and wild parakeets. Even if you don't see the birds, you will undoubtedly hear them, as Washington Slagbaai Park is a popular breeding ground for songbirds such as the oriole and the sugarbird. Great places to spot rare birds are Pos Mangel and Put Bronswinkel. If you want to see flamingos, you can visit one of the salt lakes. The birds are most active early in the morning or just before sunset. However, make sure not to disturb their peace.
Tips for an unforgettable day at Slagbaai Park Bonaire
If you wish to spend a day at Washington Slagbaai Park on Bonaire, it is necessary to pay a 'nature fee'. This entrance ticket grants you access to the park and contributes to its maintenance. Your Nature Fee is valid for the entire island, including the other nature reserves. You can easily arrange your Nature Fee via the website of the Bonaire National Parks Foundation. Please note that there are no facilities in the park, so bring plenty of food and drinks. Do not leave any waste behind in the park. Finally, always inquire about any special circumstances at the park entrance.
