KRALENDIJK – The Bonaire Sabal Palm Park in the Lima area officially opened to visitors on Thursday, May 22. The park was established to protect the Bonaire Sabal palm (Sabal lougheediana), a palm species found nowhere else in the world.
During the opening ceremony, a key handover took place to the Public Entity Bonaire (OLB), marking the completion of an important project phase. The project was carried out by BonBèrdè, coordinated by the OLB, and implemented within the framework of the Nature and Environment Policy Plan for Caribbean Netherlands (NMBP).
Walking trails and information boards
The park features several walking trails through the protected area. Along the routes, information boards have been placed about the nature, the history of the area, and the protection of the Sabal palm. Additional information about the routes can be found on the BonBèrdè website.
Visitors are asked to stay on the designated paths to avoid damaging the fragile vegetation and young palms.
Practical information
A parking area has been created at the entrance. Access to the park is via a so-called "hop-over gate", which allows people to enter the grounds while keeping goats and donkeys out.
The terrain is rocky and offers little shade. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Rare palm
The Bonaire Sabal palm, locally known as the kabana, is one of the rarest plant species on the island. Only a few adult specimens remain in the wild. In recent years, protective measures have been taken, including the placement of fencing around young palms.
BonBèrdè hopes that the park will contribute to greater awareness of Bonaire’s unique nature and invites residents and visitors to explore the area respectfully.
More information: bonberde.com/bonaire-sabal-palm-park
