Underground Bonaire
Bonaire’s limestone geology has produced cave systems across the island — formed by the dissolution of coral limestone over millions of years, the caves contain stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and in some locations, ancient Amerindian petroglyphs left by the Caiquetio people who inhabited the island before European contact.
The caves of Washington Slagbaai National Park — several caves within the national park are accessible on foot. The park’s volcanic and limestone terrain creates formations ranging from small overhangs to walkable caverns.
The Indian inscriptions — petroglyphs carved into cave walls by the Caiquetio (an Arawak people who used the caves for shelter and ceremonial purposes). The rock art is estimated to be 500–1,000+ years old and depicts geometric patterns, animal figures, and symbolic designs. A guide explains the archaeological context and the Caiquetio culture.
The Hato Caves on neighbouring Curaçao are the most developed cave tourist experience in the ABC Islands — Bonaire’s caves are more modest in scale but more remote and less commercialised.
Practical Tips
A guide is essential for cave visits. The caves are in remote locations (many within Washington Slagbaai National Park, which requires 4WD access), are unmarked, and the petroglyph sites require interpretation to locate and understand.
Bring a torch/flashlight. The caves are not illuminated. Your guide will carry lighting but a personal torch is useful.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The cave floors are uneven limestone — rocky, sometimes slippery, and occasionally requiring scrambling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bonaire’s caves large?
Most are modest in scale compared to commercial show caves — walkable caverns and overhangs rather than vast underground systems. The interest lies in the geological formations and the Amerindian petroglyphs rather than the scale.
How do I access the caves?
Most caves are within Washington Slagbaai National Park (4WD access, park entry fee) or on private land (guide-arranged access). A guided tour manages the logistics, the navigation, and the historical interpretation.
Are the caves suitable for children?
Children aged 8+ who are comfortable in dark, enclosed spaces and on uneven ground can manage most of Bonaire’s accessible caves. The petroglyph sites add an educational element that engages older children.