Discover the little-known vanilla cultivation plant Cooperative Provanille, where all work is done by hand on-site. Take a close look at the industrious workers on the job, and witness every step of the way over the 18-month long processing period. There is a gift shop on the premises if you wish to purchase a souvenir.

Founded in the 16th century by the Spanish, Rincón is the oldest settlement not only of Bonaire but the entire Dutch Caribbean. Its location, in the valley, once provided shelter from pirates. Today, it offers great hiking options with breathtaking views. As a cultural centre, it is home to attractions such as the rock formations of Gruta Lourdes, a pilgrimage site, and the Kas Krioyo, an authentic Bonairean building that currently houses a museum. The island's only distillery, Cadushy, is also located here, and it is worth timing your visit so you can celebrate with the locals on Rincón Day on 30 April.

The salt pans on the southern part of the island are among Bonaire's most curious attractions. The 15-metre-high pyramids contain 10,000 tons of salt, which is extracted through solar dehydration from the surrounding ponds. The landscape is also dotted with slave huts: the small, 150 cm tall structures are mere reminders of a dark period in the island's history.

With hundreds of rescued animals, the sanctuary has been home to the island's donkeys since 1993, often saving their lives by adopting them straight from the street. Make friends with some long-eared residents, even from the comfort of your own car — you can even buy grass pallets to feed them — then round off the experience with a tour in the gift shop or a drink on the panoramic terrace.