Washington Slagbaai National Park

Washington Slagbaai National Park (full history here) is a 5,643 hectares nature sanctuary located in the northwest part of the island. It was the first nature sanctuary of the Netherlands Antilles and was established in 1969. It is a safe habitat for the terrestrial endemic and endangered species of Bonaire. Parrots, flamingos, parakeets, iguanas and many other species of birds and reptiles can be found in this protected area. The beaches inside the park are an important nesting ground for all four species of sea turtles found in the Caribbean.

Originally inhabited by native South Americans, and comprised of two of the largest plantations on the island during colonial period, the park is rich in historical and cultural heritage. The visitor center at the park entrance, with its museum and hiking trails offers visitors an enjoyable learning experience.

Washington Slagbaai National park, offers a wide variety of activities. You can choose the long route or the short route. Both routes will take you to spectacular views, hiking trails, bays and eventually to Slagbaai. At Slagbaai you can enjoy the beach, have some lunch (bring your own) and observe flamingo’s and many more bird species from a short distance.