Page 53 - The Dutch Caribbean Isles

onaire is a special protectorate of the Neth- onaire was formed millions of years survive the often-so-devastating influence
of humans.
B erlands. and maintains special and direct B ago in different stages. Changes in sea
and ties with The Netherlands itself, thus level have left up to four stranded terraces
guaranteeing even more than the island above the present main sea level and one C aving - Bonaire has many cave systems;
already enjoys: good education, justice, and terrace below. In the South you will find the some are dry and others have lakes and

a stable financial structure that serves the salt pans and mangrove forests. This area is tunnels. Bonaire provides a unique oppor-

well-being of both Bonaire’s population and wide, flat, and open. Besides the impressive tunity to explore these ancient wonders

its visitors. and important mangrove trees, vegetation with their majestic stalactites and stalag-

F or many years, Bonaire’s government is limited here because of the influence mites and to snorkel underground in the
has played a leading role in preserving of salt and wind. the large salt pans are a crystal clear water. Out of over one hundred
favorite spot of the flamingos. The most in- caves on Bonaire, a mere three of them are

and protecting the nature on the island, teresting area of the southern region is Lac accessible for tourists, and they may be

both under and above the water. Most Bay. Being part of the biggest lagoon in the only entered under the supervision of a

significant and well known, of course, is Netherlands Antilles, it covers over 1730 certified guide. The caves play an important

the Bonaire National Marine Park, initiated acres (700 hectares) and has a water surface role in the island’s ecosystem, since six spe-

over thirty years ago at a time when marine of over three square miles (8 square kilom- cies of bats inhabit the caves. These flying

parks were unknown. eters). It is bordered by a barrier reef and, mammals pollinate the island’s flowers and

B onaire is well known for its underwa- although it is a highly protected area, there consume mosquitoes.
ter wonders. Once on Bonaire, you will are many activities which you may enjoy,
discover that, although the island doesn’t from birding watching to kayaking through K ayaking - Besides scuba diving, kayak-
the mangroves, scuba diving outside the ing is one of the most popular activities

have the flora and fauna you associate with coral dam, or windsurfing. Strict rules and on Bonaire and there are all sorts of ways

typical Caribbean islands, it has a diverse regulations ensure that this unique wetland to experience it. Take a guided kayak tour

and rich nature above water as well. From a with its fragile eco­system stays preserved through the mangroves or to nearby Klein

land point­of-view, the island can be roughly for future generations. Endangered spe- Bonaire.

divided into three regions with their own cies like the green turtle, queen conch,

distinguished vegetation and landscaping. and mangrove tree all get the chance to