Wildlife Attractions like Parrots, Iguanas and Red Footed Boobies!
A British Territory in the Western Caribbean, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are peaks of the massive underwater Cayman Ridge. The Cayman Islands are located south of Cuba, between Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and Jamaica. Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are situated east and slightly north of Grand Cayman.
If you’re wondering how to get to these remote islands… Don’t worry, there are daily island hopper flights from Grand Cayman that can fly you over quickly and easily. Local Grand Cayman boat operators can also cover the 80 miles (130km) and the cruise is fun in itself.
There’s plenty of unique and interesting things to do in the Cayman Islands, and that includes the lesser visited ones as well as Grand Cayman. Let’s take a look at some of our favourite attractions and things to do when visiting Little Cayman and Cayman Brac.
Things to Do in Cayman Brac
The first thing to know about Cayman Brac, affectionately known as ‘the brac’, is that the island is named for the 140 foot (43m) high bluff, or “brac” on the east end of the island. While not exactly daunting, it is the highest point of the Cayman Islands and provides some pretty spectacular views of the sea towards Cuba. The main attraction of the Brac is the National Trust Parrot Reserve. These protected lands are home to the remaining few hundred of endemic parrots that exist in the wild. There’s a mile long nature trail that loops through a corner of the reserve, allowing you to experience the area’s natural brush and forested habitat as well as mango trees, cactus and orchids. With any luck, you may even spot a parrot!
You’ll also find a couple of interesting low-key attractions on the island. Heritage House, a re-purposed old tannery, hosts cultural events and a local craft market. The Cayman Brac Museum features free exhibits showcasing the turtle trade, ship-building as well as the history of local hurricanes.
Things to Do on Little Cayman
If you’re looking for a quieter island than Cayman Brac, well Little Cayman, population 100 (there-abouts), will probably fit the bill 😉 One recommendation for something to do on the island is… Relax and do nothing – and by nothing we mean, meditate, read a book or go for some leisurely walks. When you’re ready for a little more excitement, you can hop on a bike and casually cycle around the island’s 8 mile (13km) loop stopping at wildlife viewing stations along the way.
The real attraction of the island is it’s relatively undisturbed nature. Little Cayman has gorgeous mangroves and lagoons, as well as salt ponds and tropical forests to explore. One area of interest is the Preston Bay Iguana Habitat. Here you can stroll along a boardwalk learning about what lives in the area from informational signs posted along the way. The real star of the show however, is Booby Pond Nature Reserve – A RAMSAR wetland, recognized by BirdLife International as an ‘Important Bird Area’! The 200 acre site is home to 10s of thousands of red-footed boobies along with frigates, herons, ducks, warblers, plovers, sandpipers and more. The Reserve has a visitor centre with an observation gallery equipped with some handy telescopes for examining the local flora and fauna.
If you’re looking for some fun and festivities, time your visit to coincide with the annual Cayman Islands Pirates Week Festival. You can participate in the Caribbean’s premier pirate festival and the Cayman Islands’ largest national event which includes activities on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Events include parades, costume contests, scavenger hunts, street parties, boat races and more.
If you’re looking for something else to do on the islands, that will raise your pulse rate a bit higher, check out our Cayman Brac & Little Cayman Adventure recommendations blog
For our overview of the beautiful and diverse islands that make up the Caymans, click on our Cayman Islands Vacations page
There’s Plenty of Things to Do on the Sister Islands of St. Kitts & Nevis
The Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis Islands, commonly referred to as “St. Kitts” or “SKN”, is a two island nation in the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles’ Leeward Islands. The St. Kitts and Nevis islands are actually the tops of a submerged volcanic mountain range. The green islands are covered with rolling folds of volcanic peaks and lush valleys. Regular ferry service connects the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis, which are approximately 2 miles (3 km) apart. St. Kitts is only a few miles from its closest neighbours, Sint Eustatius to the north-west, Barbuda and Antigua to the East and Montserrat to the south.
While no trip to St. Kitts is complete without seeing Brimstone Hill Fortress, the picturesque south-east peninsula or visiting the capital Basseterre, there are plenty of other amazing and fun things to do in St. Kitts & Nevis – If you know where to look. Our personal favourites include:
Experience Unique and Historical Attractions in Saint Kitts
Sit back and relax while you see the island from the “last railway in the West Indies” – A train, built in the early 1900s for the sugar industry, now operates a unique scenic railway tour. The train ride takes you around the rugged north-east coastline, then bus transportation takes you along the west side of the island, giving you a great all-round island experience.
For the history buff, Brimstone Hill Fortress – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must see. With it’s formidable structure and spectacular views of the Caribbean sea, this well preserved fortification makes for an imposing sight. Located on the west side of the island, the fortress is an excellent example of British military architecture of a bygone era. Covering almost 40 acres (150k sq. m), the main features of the multi-leveled fortification include it’s massive stone wall, with it’s commanding view (and cannon range) of the surrounding coastline and Caribbean Sea, along with it’s main building the Citadel, also know as Fort George.
Another structure of historical significance is the Wingfield Estate Sugar Plantation. The Ruins are located in the Central Forest Reserve National Park on the west side of the island, adjacent to the more popular Romney Manor. Old stone structures outline the remains of a once majestic set of buildings – Imagine the ancient sugar mill, rum distillery and more. While you’re in the area, one of the more interesting things to do in St. Kitts is to find the 17th century petroglyphs.
For a unique and interesting geological site, check out the “Black Rocks” on the rugged north-east coast near the village of Bellevue. These ancient lava formations on the edge of the sea, provide a reminder of the island’s volcanic past.
OK, so you’re looking for some rum… Local tour operators can take you to the Fairview Great House for some tasting, or on a Rum Runner’s Tour of the capital Basseterre, along with south-east peninsula sightseeing and 5 Rum / Bar Stops.
Romney Manor, on the west side of the island is one of the most popular things to do in St. Kitts and is well worth a visit – Their botanical gardens showcase a variety of local flora, including a 400-year-old SAMAN tree as well as colourful ‘lipstick’ palm trees. A Bar and the Caribelle Batik are also on the grounds – You can even watch a local artist make the famous Batik clothing.
Fairview Great House & Botanical Gardens is a restored 18th century home and grounds. Your tour there includes the great-house and gardens, which feature local flora. Located on the west side of the island, you’ll also enjoy great views of the south-western shoreline and Caribbean Sea.
One of the more relaxing things to do in St. Kitts, is to take-in the best views of the islands, without having the climb a volcano or mountain. Journey to a place called Timothy Hill, approximately 3.5 miles (5km) south-east of the capital Bassettere. From this vantage point you can see all the way down the lush and hilly south-east peninsula of the island, along with Nevis peak in the background.
For those looking for a nice nature walk, you can take a leisurely stroll in the Central Forest Reserve National Park on the west side of St. Kitts. Also visit the St. Kitts Eco-Park in the north-west corner of the island – Stretch your legs while you enjoy a variety of greenhouses, gardens, and orchards, before grabbing some shade at the tea house.
A variety of tours available in St. Kitts will take you sight-seeing through the mountainous interior of the island by jeep, Land Rover or open air safari bus. This is a great way to really appreciate the natural beauty of the tropical island and one of the more popular things to do in St. Kitts. Many tours provide a picnic lunch and include a visit to an old Estate and/or Plantation.
Sometimes, there’s nothing more relaxing than simply taking a break in a park accompanied by a leisurely walk around town. Basseterre is a great place in the Caribbean where you can wander around safely.
Independence Square is a short walk from the port. This former slave market location is now a beautiful and tranquil park setting – Sit on a bench and soak-up the Caribbean sun while enjoying the water fountain, the park’s centre-piece. In the background you can see the magnificent Church of Immaculate Conception. The equally impressive St. Georges Anglican church is also just a five-minute walk away.
Looking for more things to do in St. Kitts? On the outskirts of town, yet just a 15 minute walk from Independence Square, is the Government House – A large 19th century dwelling, now home to the island’s Governor General.
Want to feel the rush of flying over cane-fields or jungle foliage? There’s a zip-line operator on the west side of the island, just next to the Wingfield Estate Sugar Plantation. They have 5 zip-lines to experience and trying multiple rides involve 4×4 transport to get you from line to line.
ATV and Dune Buggy tours are also available on St. Kitts – Ride off-road country tracks, deserted beaches, up scenic mountain slopes and through cane-fields… Then enjoy some beach time and maybe a refreshing swim.
Get a unique perspective of St. Kitts and Nevis by sight-seeing from sea. At the sister islands, that means it’s west coast features, including Mount Liamuiga and Brimstone Fortress, the south-east peninsula as well as Mount Nevis.
There are a variety of sea-faring options available to you, including catamaran sailboats, power-boats and pontoon boats. Sight-seeing the western shores of the islands is spectacular and boat tours often include a beach visit and/or a BBQ lunch. Of course, Party Cruises and Sunset Cruises – featuring the chance to see the famous St. Kitts and Nevis ‘green flash’, are also available!
For the more adventurous, how would you like to rip around in a Mini Speedboat? A local boat operator offers guided tours with these ‘motorized dinghies for two’ – It’s a great way to explore the blue waters of St Kitts and Nevis.
A short ferry ride will take you from St. Kitts to the island of Nevis, where you can enjoy peaceful natural beauty, all in the shadow of majestic Nevis Peak.
You can enjoy the local flora at the Botanical Gardens of Nevis on the south side of the island. Visit to the quaint village of Charlestown, the island’s capital, on the west side of Nevis – There you can learn about the island’s history at the Horatio Nelson or Alexander Hamilton Museums, or simply unwind as you bathe in the local hot-springs. On the north end of the island you can visit the Nisbet Plantation and kick-back with great views of St. Kitts from Oualie beach.
For a little more activity, you’ll appreciate a nature walk through the rain-forest, bird watching or looking for the Vervet or “green” monkeys that inhabit the islands. There’s even an Amerindian Site to explore. These are all great things to do in Nevis.
For the more intrepid, there’s exciting 4×4 off-road adventure tours as well as an equestrian centre where you can enjoy trail rides or even a beach tour.
Looking for Things to do in Jamaica? Discover the Black River Safari
It was an exciting day! We were headed to Jamaica’s south-west coast to enjoy three amazing excursions – The Black River ‘Boat Safari’, YS Falls and the Appleton Estate Rum tour. All great things to do in Jamaica! We booked this 3-in-1 smorgasbord of adventures through Jamaica’s Amstar DMC.
This is part one of three blog posts from the day’s adventures – This one Focuses on the Black River Safari.
I’ll start by saying that it’s a fair distance from Montego Bay down to the Black River, just over 42 miles (70km). Lucky for us the bus was comfortable and our guide from Tropical Tours kept us busy by providing insight into the points of interest we passed along the way.
We left the concrete and noise of Montego Bay behind us and ventured into the mountains of St. James Parish. We had some great views of Jamaica’s beautiful interior as we winded our way through the mountains. We passed the quaint villages of Mount Carey, Montpelier and Shettlewood, getting a first hand view of how the locals live. From New Market to Middle Quarters the road traveled through an impressive valley before spilling out into the flatter rural areas of St. Elizabeth Parish.
A cluster of Egrets in the bush
When we finally reached the Riverside Dock, it was great to be able to stretch our legs. After checking out some souvenirs offered by local vendors, we boarded our pontoon boat and were ready for our Black River boat cruise – One of the many fun things to do in Jamaica. Just before we got under way, we noticed that it looked more like a green river than a black one, although that would change as we ventured further upstream. Although we had been listening to the enjoyable rhythms of Reggae music the last couple of days, I couldn’t help think about CCRs ‘Green River’ tune.
We pushed off from the dock and our pontoon boat took us out into the murky waters. Our boat operator ‘slash’ guide, immediately started telling us about the various vegetation and birds in the area. It didn’t take long for the view from the boat to get much more wild looking, and we settled in for a nice nature tour. The guide was informative and friendly, pointing out and describing the various flora and fauna that we encountered. He first mentioned that large portions of the river bottom was peat moss, and that is what gave the water it’s dark greenish hue.
Our boat guide also explained how the clumps of long vine-like branches bring water from the river up to the higher parts of the tree – Pretty fascinating. He also showed us Indigo plants growing at the sides of the river and explained that in the past, blue dye was extracted from these plants by European settlers and used for making ‘blue jeans’.
The banks of the river were mostly covered with a couple different species of mangroves along with various bushes and long shoots. There was really no ‘shore’ to speak of the entire boat trip. With the exception of the large ever-present mountains in the background, I again couldn’t help to think I was traveling through some southern bayou.
At a broad bend in the river, we came across a large patch of green lily pads floating on the water. In the background a local fisherman canoed by with his crab traps – apparently they’re quite the delicacy in the area. It was amazing to see him paddling the river in a traditional dugout style canoe – a real blast from the past!
As we journeyed up river, we saw plenty of birds near the water and in the trees along the river banks. There were a couple types of egret along with a variety of other birds, and we also saw a couple of ospreys! That’s all good, however we were really out there to see a Jamaican Crocodile…
Eventually the river narrowed and the water got much darker, OK it was black… This was my favourite area for sure – Again reminiscent of a southern US swamp, although the water here always appeared to be fairly deep. Here’s where we saw a couple of crocodiles. I have to say I’m not a big fan of feeding wild animals, however it did get them out of their hiding spots along the river banks and bring them out onto the water for everyone to see. The American Crocodiles that live in Jamaica’s Black River are relatively small as compared to their African and Australian cousins. Apparently they are also quite mellow, perhaps a reflection of the local people themselves 🙂
After spotting a few of the ancient reptiles, we turned around and moved considerably faster on the way downriver, back to the dock. Once there, we enjoyed a local lunch of beef stew, jerk chicken along with rice & peas (although I think they were beans) and fruit punch (sans rum). Tasty – That hit the spot.
In summary, this enjoyable boat cruise is just one of the many incredible things to do in Jamaica. The tour lasted just under an hour and a half. While there were a number of other boats on the river, I didn’t find it crowded or touristy. Admittedly, we had set out to see a crocodile, although we ended up really appreciating the boat cruise itself. It was a beautiful warm sunny day and there was lots of nature to see with plenty of opportunities for photos to capture and bring home memories.
A Great House, Heritage Railway, Rum Distillery and more…
Barbados is a unique coral island in the south-eastern Caribbean famous for its white-sand beaches, consistently warm weather as well as generally being considered the birthplace of rum. It was on a(nother) quest for rum that motivated me to leave the beaches and touristy south-west area and travel across the island to the rural north-east of Barbados – I’m sure glad we decided to visit St. Nicholas Abbey! This excursion really helped us get to know some of the history and culture of the island, as well as see some of its natural beauty.
St. Nicholas Abbey is comfortably nestled in the beautiful “Scottish highlands” of Barbados – A region full of natural beauty which we witnessed first hand as we drove up the hilly east coast and up/across a ridge that took us past the amazingly preserved Morgan Lewis Windmill and the fabulous Cherry Tree Hill look-out (more on that later). I really enjoyed the last bit of the drive along an extraordinary road lined with massive Mahogany trees whose branches seemed to touch each other above us across the road.
We arrived at the grand old plantation just in time! The St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway was preparing to leave the station. We boarded the train and were off… The ride started in a gentle arc around a pond and past some sugar cane fields before chugging up a bit of a hill. After another wide turn, we entered a mature stand of mahogany which gave way to a section of track flanked by a cliffside which was remarkably close to the train. I understand this train and its track was completed in late 2018, with tours having just started in early 2019. This rail system is an authentic representation of the 19th Century transportation system used in Barbados to transport sugar, then later commuters, around the island. The train cars were stunningly beautiful and I could just feel the craftsmanship that went into their construction. We enjoyed our ride, which was narrated by a tour guide who helped us understand what we were seeing along the journey.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before we reached the end of the line at Cherry Tree Hill. At this point, we were pleasantly surprised to be volunteered into assisting the train crew turn the train engine around on a manual carousal/turn-table in preparation for the return journey. It’s not every day that you can participate in such an event! Our work done, we wandered across the street to visit some local vendors who had set up tables and were selling a variety of souvenirs. That didn’t hold our attention for long, as we noticed the amazing views of the island just a few steps away.
This is the second-highest point on Barbados and we savoured the breathtaking views of the island’s hills and ridges as well as the rugged boulder-strewn shoreline of the east coast. Before reboarding the train, we took the opportunity to get our picture taken with the spectacular ‘period correct’ engine and listen to the train conductor as he told stories about the history of trains and their cargo/passengers on the island. This experience really transported us back in time to the days before Barbados had roads. We imagined trains commuting people from Bridgetown around the south end of the island and heading up the east coast, which at that time was the destination of choice for wealthy travelers – It’s still a great place to spend time in the beautiful Bajan countryside away from the hustle and bustle of the west coast.
After our railway adventure was complete, we exited the train to tour St. Nicholas Abbey’s great house. After a short walk across a manicured field lined with gardens and giant palm trees, we were welcomed into one of only two surviving 17th-century Jacobian homes in the Caribbean. English Jacobian architecture is characterized by its combination of Tudor, Elizabethan and Renaissance styles influenced by Flemish, Dutch and French architecture of the time. A tour guide walked us through the main floor pointing out some of the house’s antiques and artifacts while providing a brief history of some of the owners who had lived there.
I immediately gazed upon the Drawing Room’s chandelier, which was decorated with shells. Along with an English tea set from the 1800s, I enjoyed inspecting the “sailors valentines” – mosaics, ornately assembled from tiny shells. The Dining Room looked inviting, with the table fully set with fine china.
We then passed through the Study, which featured a vintage 1930s “Gentleman’s Chair” complete with a backrest, footrest, wheels, table attachments and a reading lamp. There was also a much older mahogany “judge chair” that looked very much at home in the storied great house.
It was interesting listening to the long line of families and sordid tales of the some of the inhabitants. Some of the more revered owners of the property included Sir John Gay Allyne, a long time local government official and Mount Gay rum fame, as well as the more recent Cave family, who lived at the house from the early 1800s all the way up to 2006.
After the great house tour, we headed outside where we enjoyed a complimentary rum punch in a courtyard under the shadow of a massive 400 year old Sandbox tree. We then took a short walk down a gentle slope past some cockatoos and colourful macaws to see the rum producing parts of the plantation. I understand that a few days a week, staff demonstrate how the plantation’s sugar cane is crushed for juice which is then reduced to a sweet syrup – The day we visited, the old Steam Mill was not in operation. St. Nicholas Abbey uses cane sugar syrup and a modern hybrid (pot/column) still, to produce their rum which is aged in used bourbon barrels.
We then went back into their main building and watched a short film, which is essentially ‘home movies’ from the 1930s taken by a Cave family member. The filmed covered their Atlantic crossing, scenes of a bustling Bridgetown, clearly centred around the sugar industry, as well as scenes of the plantation including traditional sugar and rum-making utilizing windmills. The video was followed by a short discussion about their rum, along with a sampling of their 5 year old spirit. St. Nicholas Abbey rekindled the old plantation’s rum making in the early 2000s, and now produce small-batch, single cask artisan rums that also include an 8 year old, 15 year old as well as a rare 22 year old. They also produce a white rum along with interestingly flavoured rums (Banana, Passion Fruit, Sorrel and Coffee) as well as Rum Punch.
The tour formally ended at this point, however guests were welcome to roam the plantation or enjoy lunch on a fantastic terrace situated above a lush ravine. We wandered back into the great house and also visited their rum bottling building, where a woman was hand bottling some ‘special occasion’ rums. After having a light lunch in their snack bar we visited their gift shop where a nice assortment of souvenirs was available – I thought their coffee beans, flavoured by being stored in empty rum barrels, was interesting – Nice!
What a great way to spend an afternoon. St. Nicholas Abbey, which by the way is/was not an abbey at all… has plenty to offer visitors… from a Train ride and Great house to assorted Rum related attractions. The plantation also conveniently has a restaurant, snack bar and gift shops. That said, the place really provides a historical perspective of Barbados that you just can’t get on the beach. St. Nicholas Abbey does a good job in preserving the heritage of Barbados. The property and facilities all have a ‘new’ feel to it, clearly well managed and professionally run, although its staff is still nice and friendly, which we have come to expect from Bajans – Casual and laid back…
ACT Staff
For more information about the plantation and its tours, check out their website at St. Nicholas Abbey
For Tour Operators who can get you there as well as other great Tourist Attractions on the island, check out our Things to Do in Barbados page
If you’re interested in reading more about rum, check out our Caribbean Rum page as well as our Barbados Rum page, which includes a list of Tour Operators who will get you sampling Barbados’ finest.
For an overview of beautiful Barbados, take a look at our Barbados Vacations page
If you’re looking for more ‘active’ things to do while vacationing on the island, click on our Barbados Adventures blog post for some great ideas!
Cultural and Natural Treasures of the Caribbean Islands
Looking for something special in the Caribbean islands? These wonderful places have been deemed worthy by UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Centre of being of significant cultural or natural value. These sites preserve our heritage – Our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations!
When it comes to the Caribbean islands as well as coastal areas of the Americas, this includes archaeological Indigenous sites, well preserved historical European structures, along with breathtaking and rich bio-diverse natural sites. UNESCO’s intent is to strengthen the Caribbean’s sustainable development and the role of local communities, which is vital for heritage protection and management. A well protected World Heritage site contributes directly to environmental, social and economic development and helps better the life of local communities in the Caribbean.
The Caribbean has 31 (including seven tentative) Cultural sites, 19 (including seven tentative) Natural sites along with 4 (including two tentative) Mixed (Both Cultural & Natural) sites. Three of these sites are in danger of irreparable damage due to direct and indirect human activities – They are Belize’s “Natural” Barrier Reef Reserve System; Venezuela’s “Cultural” Coro and its Port; and Honduras’ “Natural” Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve.
Our favourite ‘Cultural’ World Heritage sites in the Caribbean include:
Saint Kitts & Nevis – Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
This well preserved Fortress makes for an imposing sight. The fortress is built on a steep volcanic hilltop, approximately 755 feet (230m) high, yet seemingly a natural part of the Caribbean island’s main mountain range. This fortification must have been extremely intimidating in it’s day. The fortress is an excellent example of British military architecture used in the Caribbean in the 1600s, 1700s and 1800s – This is the earliest surviving example of “Polygonal System” design. Covering almost 40 acres (150k sq. m), the main features of the multi-leveled fortification include it’s massive stone wall, with it’s commanding view (read cannon range) of the surrounding coastline and Caribbean Sea, along with it’s main building the Citadel, also know as Fort George.
Puerto Rico – La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site
Over the last 500 years, a series of defensive structures have been built in this Caribbean Island to protect it’s Capital, San Juan. These fortifications provide an excellent example of European military architecture traditionally used in the Caribbean to protect important cities and ports. These Spanish built structures reflect Italian Renaissance, Baroque, and French Enlightenment designs and construction. This Heritage site includes the structures of La Fortaleza, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristobal, Fort San Juan de la Cruz, the Devil’s Sentry Box, as well as the town now known as Old San Juan.
La Fortaleza has been used as a fortress, an arsenal, a prison, the residence of the Governor-General, as well as the residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico, for which it is still used today. Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or just “El Morro” for short, with it’s dominating command over the entrance to the Bay of San Juan, was probably the most iconic and feared Spanish built fortress in the Caribbean. The remaining fortifications were an expansion to the over-all system.
Few other Caribbean islands offer tourists a place for a full day’s walk-about of sight-seeing featuring old fortresses and protective stone walls (almost three miles [5km] long) along with the charming town of Old San Juan itself – Great for indulging in history, culture, and shopping!
For more information on the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico and the tons of fun that can be had there, check our our Puerto Rico Active Vacations page
Cuba – Old Havana and its Fortification System
Built by the Spanish on the northern shores of the west end of this Caribbean island, the capital Havana grew over the centuries into an eclectic combination of residences and defensive fortifications. The old historic centre, with it’s plazas and narrow streets, retains it’s 17th and 18th century European architecture – Featuring grandiose commercial buildings along-side private homes with balconies, wrought-iron fences and enchanting internal courtyards.
Some of the oldest and largest stone fortifications in the Caribbean islands were built in Cuba starting in the early 1500s, right up to the 1900s. The complex system of fortifications that protected Havana, its port and its all-important dockyard is comprised of: the Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña – one of the largest fortresses in the Caribbean; Castillo de la Real Fuerza – one of the oldest fortifications in the Caribbean; Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta; Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, along with a number of other smaller fortifications.
Mexico – Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen Itza
When you think of the iconic Mayan pyramid, Chichen Itza has to come to mind.
Photo Credit – Vincent-Ko-Hon-Chiu
This sacred site was one of the greatest Mayan centres ever built on Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula. Influenced by close to a thousand years of diverse habitation, the area demonstrates the fusion of Maya and Toltec construction, as well as monuments and art. Buildings that still remain today from the Mayan-Toltec civilization include the Warriors’ Temple, El Castillo (pyramid) and El Caracol circular observatory.
Dominica – Fort Shirley (Tentative List)
The Fort is located on the south side of Cabrits National Park, on a small point jutting into the Caribbean Sea on the west side of the north end of the Caribbean island. Nestled between two hills, the fortifications were first built by the English, then augmented by the French. The area provides an amazing vantage point over the beautiful Bay of Portsmouth and the rugged landscape of Dominica. The Fort and Park provide a calm area to relax in, for those coming from the strenuous travel through the island’s mountainous geography. Fort Shirley consists of a main garrison with seven gun batteries, seven cisterns, powder magazines, ordnance storehouses, bakeries, iron forge and barracks for officers, hundreds of soldiers as well as their support staff and slaves. This site is of historical significance for the following two reasons.
In 1802, the 8th West India Regiment revolted, with African slave soldiers taking over the garrison for three days. They protested living conditions and the constant threat of being sent to work on the plantations. The revolt resulted in all slave soldiers in the British Empire being made free a few years later.
The Fort was successfully defended by the English from French attacks on numerous occasions in the late 1700s and early 1800s, although it is a sea battle that is it’s claim to fame. The Battle of the Saintes, considered to be one of the the most important naval battles in the history of the Caribbean – An offshoot of the American Revolutionary War, the naval battle took place within view of the fort in early April, 1782. England’s Admiral Rodney was victorious, re-confirming Britain’s ownership of their colonial territories in the Caribbean.
For more information on the Nature Island of the Caribbean, check out our Dominica Active Vacations page
Our favourite ‘Natural’ World Heritage sites in the Caribbean include:
Belize – Barrier Reef Reserve System
Photo Credit – Evergreen
This amazing area contains the largest barrier reef complex and one of the healthiest eco-systems in the northern hemisphere – Making it a top candidate for the most rewarding place in the Caribbean for snorkeling and boating. Seven protected areas encompass reefs, mangrove forests, coastal lagoons and estuaries, as well as offshore atolls and hundreds of sand and mangrove cays. The area provides habitat for threatened species such as marine turtles, manatees and the American crocodile. This natural paradise is home to over 200 types of marine flora, over 500 fish species as well as bird colonies of red-footed booby, brown booby and the common noddy.
The Reserve System is comprised of: Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve; Blue Hole Natural Monument; Half Moon Caye Natural Monument; South Water Caye Marine Reserve; Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve; Laughing Bird Caye National Park; and Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve.
Dominica – Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Photo Credit – Evergreen
Perhaps the most dramatic mountains in all of the Caribbean islands are found on this quiet isle. The Park, along with two Forest Reserves, are full of diverse rugged beauty making Dominica one of the most challenging Caribbean islands for hiking. The National Park combines lush tropical forests with barren volcanic features and is home to the 4,400 feet (1,342m) high volcano peak of the Trois (three) Pitons. The Park’s 27 square miles (70 sq. km) are dominated by a rugged mountain range filled with steep peaks and narrow canyons – Here you can find dozens of fumaroles and hot springs, a couple of freshwater lakes, a number of volcanoes as well as a lake with water so hot, it boils!
While the Park contains the massive pitons and Dominica’s largest lakes, Boeri Lake and Freshwater Lake, perhaps the most impressive and interesting areas lie further south-east. Here you will find the aptly named Valley of Desolation, an unworldly barren rocky valley of volcanic activities including hot springs, fumaroles and bubbling mud holes. Of course there’s also Boiling Lake, a waterfall fed flooded fumarole whose water is a constant rolling boil.
For more information on the Nature Island of the Caribbean, check out our Dominica Active Vacations page
Jamaica – Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park
Photo Credit – R Miller
The Park is home to one of the Caribbean’s largest mountain ranges and the highest peaks in Jamaica. It’s tallest, Blue Mountain Peak stands 7,402 feet (2,256 m) above sea level. While driving the roads in the area are an adventure unto themselves, this is one of the best areas in the Caribbean for hiking and mountain biking. This massive Park covers 100 square miles (260 sq. km) of heavily forested mountainous landscape. The elevation variations in the Blue and John Crow Mountains provide a diverse natural system consisting of tropical montane rain-forest, a unique mor-ridge forest as well as an elfin forest.
The Park contains one of the richest bio-diverse areas found in all of the Caribbean islands, with an exceptionally high proportion of endemic plant and animal species – Indicating that Jamaica evolved somewhat separately from other islands. Plants include rare lichens, mosses and a variety of flowering plants. Home to several species of amphibian, bird and mammals, the Park is a protected area for the conservation of a number of globally endangered frog and bird species.
For more information on the Caribbean island of Jamaica, including the wide variety of adventures and tourist attractions to enjoy, click on our Jamaica Active Vacations page
Honduras – Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve
The tropical reserve protects some of the most diverse plant and wildlife in Central America, as well as being home to more than 2,000 indigenous people who are managing to preserve their traditional way of life. Bordered by the Caribbean sea on the north, the mountainous Reserve is part of a conservation complex which includes another Reserve as well as a National Park. The Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve contains rain-forests, wetlands, Savannah as well as coastal lagoons. Home to over 500 plant species and more than 400 types of birds, 200 types of mammals, as well as over 100 reptiles, amphibians and fish. Of note is the critically endangered Mexican Spider Monkey, the endangered Central American Tapir and Great Green Macaw, the vulnerable Giant Anteater, West Indian Manatee and pheasant like Great Curassow, as well as the near-threatened Jaguar, boar like White-lipped Peccary and Guiana Crested Eagle and Harpy Eagle. A number of ancient sites, some with petroglyphs can also be found in the area.
Cuba – Desembarco del Granma National Park
Found at the south-west tip of the Caribbean island, this remote and quiet Park covers approximately 124 square miles (320 sq. km), including more than 23 square miles (60 sq. km) of marine territory. The land in the Park is an excellent example of ongoing geological processes, featuring a dramatic karst landscape filled with sinkholes, caves and canyons. The magnificent coastal cliffs provide beautiful natural views as well – From the land and the sea!
Mexico – Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Photo Credit – Vincent-Ko-Hon-Chiu
Located on the Yucatán peninsula, bordering the Caribbean Sea, the massive Reserve, translated from Mayan as the ‘Origin of the Sky’, covers over 1,540 square miles (4,000 sq. km) of land, including 75 miles (120km) of coastline along with a large number of mangroves. The Reserve contains tropical forests, palm Savannah along with well preserved wetlands filled with mangroves, marshes, lagoons and sand beaches. There’s a large marine area in the park as well. The Reserve is home to over 300 species of birds, hundreds of types of fish, along with amazing and rare wild cats such as Jaguar, Puma and Ocelot as well as the Central American Tapir. Of special geological interest in this Biosphere is the hundreds of ‘petenes’ or small islands, that appear/disappear in the marsh lands as is the ‘cenotes’ or karst sinkholes, found further inland.
Saint Lucia – Pitons Management Area
Photo Credit – Marc Patry
Perhaps the most iconic image in all of the Caribbean islands, St. Lucia’s Pitons rise sharply from the sea, making for fantastic photo-ops as well as hiking. Covering almost 12 square miles (30 sq. km), the area encompasses the Piton Mitan ridge with it’s two volcanic spires, hot springs and fumeroles, including the renowned Sulpher Springs, along with a marine area approximately 7 miles (11km) long and just under a mile (1km) off shore – This marine area is full of coral reefs and steep underwater walls – Like a subterranean extension of the Pitons themselves. At 2,526 feet (770m) and 2,438 feet (743m) high, the Pitons are an imposing home to tropical forests and dry forests as well as elfin woodlands at higher elevations. The area is home to over 100 hundred plant species – including eight rare species of trees, 27 types of birds along with small mammals (including bats), as well as a number of reptiles and amphibians. Off the coast of St. Lucia, the sea contains over 100 species of fish, along with an assortment of corals and sponges. Ancient Petroglyphs have also been found in the area.
For more information on the beautiful island of St. Lucia, including a long list of things to do on the island, check out our St. Lucia Active Vacations page
