Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bonaire
Bonaire is the island in the Caribbean Sea that is part of the ABC islands which also includes Aruba and Curacao.
Bonaire has been inhabited and controlled by many different countries in the past from Spain, Denmark or England. It is currently a special municipality under the Netherlands.
Dutch is the official language of Bonaire as it still remains part of the Netherlands. But, it is not the most widely spoken language on the island. The majority of the island speaks Papiamentu, a Creole language.
The capital of Bonaire is Kralendijk, which is the only main city on the island. It encompasses nearly the entirety of the island’s population.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Bonaire?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bonaire
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Bonaire?
What Is the Climate Like in Bonaire?
How Safe Is Bonaire?
Scuba Diving in Bonaire
What Should I Take to Bonaire?
Canadian Consular Services in Bonaire
Do I Need Vaccines for Bonaire?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bonaire. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bonaire: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Bonaire |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Bonaire |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, typically spread through contaminated food or water, leading to fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The typhoid vaccine provides immunity against this bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of contracting the disease, especially in areas where typhoid is common.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the PHAC.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus leads to liver infection through contact with infected fluids. The most effective safeguard is the hepatitis B vaccine, administered in a series of shots that stimulate the body to produce antibodies, providing long-term immunity. It is crucial for infants and those at an increased risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that can easily spread. Vaccination remains the primary defense against these threats. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, is a reliable way to bolster immunity and reduce the risk of infection and outbreaks.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bonaire
Prevent Bug Bites in Bonaire
To fend off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: cover up with long clothing, use repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and avoid bug-heavy areas during dawn and dusk. Protect your sleep with insect-repellent-treated bed nets.
Food and Water Safety in Bonaire
When abroad, ensure food safety by avoiding street vendors, practicing hand hygiene, and opting for thoroughly cooked dishes. Choose bottled or canned drinks with intact seals. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at trustworthy restaurants.
Infections To Be Aware of in Bonaire
- Dengue – The PHAC describes dengue fever as a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, presenting symptoms such as rash and joint pain. Prevention strategies focus on reducing mosquito exposure and breeding grounds. Treatment is supportive, emphasizing the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, can cause mild to severe symptoms and poses significant risks during pregnancy. Prevention strategies include using insect repellent, safe sex practices, and avoiding travel to affected areas.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Bonaire?
A visa is not required for stays under 90 days within a 180 day period. Proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds may be required.
Bonaire Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Bonaire? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Bonaire and Government of Canada
What Is the Climate Like in Bonaire?
Bonaire is a small island in the southern Caribbean that’s popular with tourists. The weather there is warm and sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging around 25. There’s a little bit of rain from October to December, but not a lot.
Kralendijk is the capital city and a top tourist destination. It has similar weather to the rest of the island, with warm temperatures and little rainfall. Lac Bay, on the southeastern side of the island, is another popular area. It’s also warm and sunny, but windier than other parts of Bonaire. This makes it a great place for windsurfing and other water sports.
If you’re planning a trip to Bonaire, you can expect warm and sunny weather most of the time.
How Safe Is Bonaire?
Bonaire is a generally safe place to visit, but it’s still important to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe:
- Pay attention to what’s happening around you and trust your instincts.
- Keep your valuable belongings like passports, cash, and electronics locked up or hidden away.
- Use a reliable taxi or car rental company when travelling around the island.
- Be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately.
- Practice water safety when diving or snorkeling.
- Be prepared for emergencies and know where the nearest medical center is.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bonaire.
Scuba Diving in Bonaire
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Bonaire is a popular destination for people looking to scuba dive; from experienced divers to beginners. Even their license plate says “Diver’s Paradise”.
If you are a beginner scuba diver, you are able to buy or rent all the equipment you may need on the island. Bonaire is a good place to start scuba diving. They are best known for their shore dives, which are more shallow and easily accessible. Bonaire is also known for their reefs as well as their shipwrecks.
If you are diving, do not wear gloves and do NOT touch the reefs. If you are caught doing either of these things, you will be removed from the water by dive operators.
The most popular dive site in Bonaire is Hilma Hooker, a sunken freighter that sank in 1984. This shipwreck is both accessible from boat and from the shore.
What Should I Take to Bonaire?
If you’re planning a trip to Bonaire, it’s important to pack for the warm and humid climate. Bring lightweight and breathable clothing like cotton or linen, and don’t forget swimwear for enjoying the beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen, and bring insect repellent for mosquitoes. Remember to bring a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun. Snorkeling and diving gear are also essential if you plan to participate in these activities.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island on foot or by bike. Bring enough prescription medications for the duration of your trip. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and marine life.
It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or emergencies, even though many places on the island accept credit cards.
Canadian Embassy in Bonaire
If travellers face issues or have concerns while travelling throughout the country, contact or visit the Canadian Embassy.
There is no Canadian embassy in Bonaire, but it is served by the embassy in Colombia.
Canadian Embassy in Colombia
Cra. 7, No. 114-33, Piso 14,
Bogotá, D.C. Colombia
Telephone: (57-601) 657-9800
Email: bgotaconsular@international.gc.ca
If you have any questions about travelling to Bonaire or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the Bonaire
“Very sweet and kindhearted staff. A former nurse, she comes off as very intelligent and caring about her patients and their well being. I greatly appreciate the concern for my well-being and the information she prepared me with for Bonaire. Great inter-personal skills and genuinely kind.”
“Great location, clean and was given information and explained the vaccines for Bonaire. Very nice and knowledgeable person.”
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