You have just landed on Bonaire, the sun is shining and the island is waiting. The fastest way to start your holiday? Picking up your rental car straight at Flamingo International Airport (BON). In this guide we explain why renting a car at Bonaire airport is a smart choice, what you need to bring and how to avoid the most common pitfalls.
Why rent a car at Bonaire airport?
Bonaire may be small, but its highlights are spread out: the pink salt flats in the south, the wild east coast and Washington Slagbaai National Park in the north. There is hardly any public transport, and taxis add up quickly. With a car from the moment you land, you drive straight to your accommodation, stop at the supermarket on the way and can be on the beach within the hour.
International brands or a local rental company?
Several international car rental brands have desks opposite the arrivals hall. They offer familiar names, but at busy times you may wait in line for a long time, and a large deposit is usually blocked on your credit card.
Bonaire also has excellent local rental companies. Renting locally supports the island economy and you get personal service and honest advice about driving and exploring. 123 Car Rental is a local company with a 5-star rating on Google and Trustpilot, a fleet of new Toyotas and a pick-up process that takes minutes, not hours.
What do you need to rent a car at Bonaire airport?
- A valid driver’s licence, valid for the whole rental period. A regular licence from the US, Canada, the EU and most other countries is enough. Is your licence not in the Latin alphabet? Then bring an International Driving Permit.
- Minimum age of 23. There is no maximum age as long as your licence is valid.
- A passport or ID card of the main driver.
- A payment card. Many companies require a credit card for the deposit. At 123 Car Rental you don’t pay a deposit and a debit card works fine. Read more in renting a car without a credit card.
How pick-up works at 123 Car Rental
- Book online before you travel. In high season (December–April) cars, especially pickup trucks, sell out.
- Land at Flamingo Airport and collect your luggage. Our office is just minutes from the airport.
- Show your documents, sign the rental agreement and receive the keys.
- Drive off. No long inspection, no stress about every small scratch: damage is covered by the 100% Coverage Package.
Always included: the 100% Coverage Package
With 123 Car Rental the CDW and the 100% Coverage Package are included in every rental:
- $0 deductible
- No deposit blocked on your card
- Free additional drivers
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Only costs you could have prevented yourself are excluded, such as traffic fines or damage while driving under the influence. Learn more in car rental without a deposit.
Which car should you choose?
| Car | Best for | From |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Agya | Couples, short trips around Kralendijk | $65 per day |
| Toyota Raize | Exploring the whole island, national park allowed | $75 per day |
| Toyota Hilux | Divers, free tank rack, 5 people | $85 per day |
| Toyota Hilux Automatic | Divers who prefer an automatic | $120 per day |
The minimum rental period is 3 days. Going diving? Check our Dive & Drive package.
Tips for driving on Bonaire
- The speed limit is 40 km/h in built-up areas and 60 km/h outside.
- Watch out for donkeys, goats and potholes, especially on unpaved roads.
- At dive sites, never leave valuables in the car.
- Fuel up in time: there are only a few gas stations outside Kralendijk. Read our guide to refueling on Bonaire.
More tips in Driving in Bonaire.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Cheap is often expensive
The lowest daily rate often hides an older car, a high deductible or extra costs at the counter. At 123 Car Rental you only drive new Toyotas, serviced every 5,000 km at the official Toyota dealer, and you know the full price in advance.
Check the reviews
Choose a company with good, recent reviews. Read what our guests say on Trustpilot.
Want to see all our cars, rates and benefits? Read more about car rental Bonaire with 123 Car Rental.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a car at Bonaire airport?
Yes. Several companies serve Flamingo Airport. 123 Car Rental is located just minutes away and hands over your car quickly.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car on Bonaire?
Not at 123 Car Rental. There is no deposit, so you can pay with a debit card.
What is the minimum age to rent a car on Bonaire?
23 years, with a valid driver’s licence.
Should I book my rental car in advance?
Yes, especially between December and April. Pickup trucks and automatics are the first to sell out.
Reserve your car now and drive off as soon as you land on Bonaire.