Bonaire – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions Advisory Issued August 20, 2026

There was no change to the advisory level. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise normal precautions in Bonaire.

Advisory summary

Bonaire is generally a safe destination for travelers.

• Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins.
• Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. Some sellers may be aggressive. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.
• Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activity.
• It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Bonaire. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time.

Review our Travel Guidance for Bonaire to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to Bonaire:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dutch Caribbean.
• You may wish to use different bags for travel than the ones you use to store or carry weapons and ammunition at home. This may help you avoid accidentally bringing illegal items into Bonaire.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bonaire.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

Source: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/bonaire-travel-advisory.html
Originally Published: August 20, 2026