Bonaire 2026

Bonaire’s salt flats are a striking blend of natural wonder and industrial activity.

Covering about 13% of the island’s southeastern corner, the flats are managed by Cargill, which operates one of the largest solar salt facilities in the Caribbean.

The process begins with seawater flowing into vast crystallizers, where evaporation leaves behind high-purity salt—up to 99.6% pure. The salt is then washed, stacked into the iconic white pyramids (each containing around 10,000 metric tons), and prepared for shipment.

The facility produces between 300,000 and 500,000 metric tons annually.

Historically, salt production in Bonaire dates back centuries, with the Dutch recognizing its value as a commodity for preserving meats and fish, tanning hides, and later, as a key part of the Caribbean trade network.

The industry faced a decline after the abolition of slavery in the 1850s but was revitalized under Cargill’s management starting in 1997. The flats are also ecologically significant, supporting flamingo populations and other wildlife, thanks to the unique high-salinity habitat.

The salt, once collected, is conveyed via a large belt onto cargo ships. When ships are not present there, it’s a great snorkeling and diving site.

Industrial Uses of Salt

Chlor-alkali industry: Salt is electrolyzed to produce chlorine and sodium hydroxide, both critical for water treatment, disinfectants, and PVC manufacturing.

De-icing:Rock salt is widely used to melt ice on roads in winter.

Food processing: Salt is essential for preservation and flavor enhancement.

Chemical manufacturing: Used in the production of soda ash, baking soda, and other chemicals.

Water softening: Salt regenerates ion-exchange resins in water softeners.

Agriculture: Salt licks for livestock and soil amendment in some regions.Read more