Topside Bonaire

Tour the island and discover rare sights Catering to those who want the complete island tour, several companies on Bonaire offer definitive guided excursions. You can cover the highlights of this 112-square-mile Dutch island in three to four hours.The ''Island Journey'' tour by Bonaire Tours is offered Mondays through Fridays in an air-conditioned bus or van, depending on group size. Stops include: Salt Mounds: The huge salt mounds and salt pans that are part of Bonaire's thriving salt-making industry. Stone Staricase: The ''1000 Steps'' dive site along the northern coastline. An impressive view of the water and a sigh of relief that you're not carrying your gear and tanks down all those steps. Divers can easily locate Bonaire's 100 dive sites by the yellow painted stones that mark the areas. Pink Flamingos: ''Goto Lake'' is a stop where you can catch a glimpse of Bonaire's pink flamingos.Rincon Village: Bonaire's first settlement, which dates back to the 1500s, when it was built to hide from the view of pirates. Slave Huts: The historic slave huts that serve as reminders of Bonaire's slave industry.There are plenty of opportunities to take photos, and the drivers are very accommodating and knowledgeable. The price for adults is $22; $11 for children.For more information: Bonaire Tours: 011-599-7-8778Baranka Tours: 011-599-7-2200