5 facts about the Pink Salt Lake on Bonaire

The Pink Salt Lake is located in the south of Bonaire, right in the area where salt production and nature have coexisted for a long time. It is not a place where you walk around extensively or undertake activities, but a stop where you look, spot flamingos, and drive on. It is precisely this simplicity that makes the Pink Salt Lake special. Here you see a landscape set up functionally, yet of great ecological value.

1. The Pink Salt Lake is at the heart of salt production

The Salt Lake is part of the southern salt pan area of Bonaire. It is an elongated, shallow saltwater lake that was historically cut off from the sea and later reconnected for salt production. Part of the water is used for sea salt extraction, while another part is designated as a protected nature reserve.

2. The lake is not an attraction, but a working system

What you see here is not a landscaped nature park or viewpoint with facilities. The Pink Salt Lake functions as part of a larger system where sun, wind, and water together determine the salt content. As evaporation increases the salt concentration, conditions arise in which specific organisms can live. You are literally watching a process that has been taking place for generations.

3. The pink color is caused by microorganisms

The noticeable pink to reddish color of the water is the result of extremely high salt concentrations. In these conditions, microorganisms such as algae and bacteria that contain pigments, including carotenoids, thrive. These pigments give the water its color. Depending on light and time of day, the shade can range from soft pink to intense red.

4. The Salt Pond is an important habitat for flamingos

The Pink Salt Pond is located in a protected sanctuary that is of great importance to the Caribbean flamingo. The area is used as a breeding and resting place. The sanctuary zone is not accessible, but flamingos are often visible from the public road.

5. The pink color of Flamingos and the pink water share the same origin

The pink color of flamingos and the water is indirectly connected. Flamingos get their color through their diet, which consists of small organisms such as algae and crustaceans that are rich in carotenoids. These are the same pigments that also color the water. Therefore, flamingos get their beautiful pink color from this. Water, food, and birds are part of one cohesive system here.

Practical information for your visit

• Location: The Pink Salt Pond is located on the southern coast of Bonaire

• Accessibility: The area is easily accessible by car and is part of the island's popular southern route.

• Accessibility: The protected nature reserve is not freely accessible. Visits take place from the public road and designated stopping points.

• Duration of a visit: The Pink Salt Pond is primarily a short stop. A few minutes to a quarter of an hour of looking and observing is sufficient for many visitors.

• Facilities: There are no facilities such as shade, restrooms, or catering in the immediate vicinity.