Caribbean Hiking: 10 Breathtaking Destinations

Want get some exercise while climbing to some of the most breathtaking Caribbean views? Take a look at these Caribbean hiking destinations. These fabulous locations offer fresh, clean jungle air, and unforgettable ocean views. Who knows, maybe you’ll see some tropical wildlife on the way up!

1. Shirley Heights (English Harbour), Antigua

You can’t beat the stunning view from Shirley Heights in Antigua. Climb to the top and gaze on the bay below, with Montserrat’s volcano in the distance. Be sure to go at sunset! On Sundays, a steel band will provide the perfect accompaniment for dancing, and vendors stand by to offer food and drink after your hike.

Shirley Heights, Antigua

2. The Pitons, St. Lucia

This hike is more challenging, but well worth the trip. The Pitons are a group of volcanic peaks, the tallest one being Gros Piton, which towers 2,530 feet above sea level. The upward trail can leave you huffing and puffing, but it’s well worth the effort once you see the view from the top.

3. Paradise Peak, St. Martin

This strenuous hike affords the best view on St. Martin! Most hikers drive most of the way up, and then stop for a 20 minute hike to reach the peak. On the way, you’ll see colorful butterflies, skittish lizards, and amazing rock formations. Many hikers go early in the morning to catch the sunrise, or late in the day to behold an incredible panoramic sunset view.

Paradise Peak, St. Martin

4. Altun Ha Ruins, Belize

Altun Ha Ruins, Belize

Here’s a less- strenuous hike that includes some history as well! Altun Ha is one of the most well known Mayan ruins sites in the country of Belize. Although most of the hike through the rainforest and ruins is low-key, you can climb to the top of some of the temples and other buildings for an extra thrill! Be sure to bring your bug spray, because these ruins are in a humid, vegetation-filled area. This probably isn’t what you’d think of when searching for Caribbean hiking sites, but it’s definitely a great alternative to the norm! In addition, you’ll have the chance to brush up on ancient Mayan history while you get a little exercise.

5. Waitukubuli National Trail, Dominica

At 115 miles long, it’s the Caribbean’s first long distance walking trail. Located on the island of Dominica, it boasts sea-side views, natural sulphur springs, and a thick rainforest packed with flora and fauna. It’s divided into fourteen segments of varying levels of difficulty. This trail even has its own website to give hiking enthusiasts updates on weather conditions and to provide information about each segment of the trail.

6. Arikok National Park, Aruba

This is an extensive park located in Santa Cruz, Aruba. Although many tourists enjoy it by jeep or off-roading 4-wheel-drive vehicles, it also affords plenty of opportunities on foot. What makes it unique is its famous caves containing ancient hieroglyphics. You’ll also find cacti, a natural pool, old gold refining ruins, and a panoramic view of the island. Tour guides will explain the site’s history, and take you to unique natural bridges and a black sand beach. If you’re ever in Aruba, don’t miss this fantastic park!

Caves at Arikok National Park, Aruba

7. Brownsberg Nature Park, Suriname

Located south of Paramaribo, the capital city of the country of Suriname, this vast tropical rainforest reserve was once a gold mining site. It is home to around 1450 species of plants and at least 350 species of birds. Several hiking paths located at the base of the mountain slopes lead to waterfalls and other natural springs. Apart from the occasional hiker, the forest is largely unspoiled. It’s a great place to watch the sunrise while you listen to the howling of baboons and the chirping of exotic birds.

8. Mount Christoffel, Curacao

About an hour from the town of Willemstad, Mount Christoffel is a popular Caribbean hiking destination on the island of Curacao. The trails are easy to hike at first, and then steeper as you continue the climb up the mountainside. Near the top, you will need to hoist yourself over a few boulders here and there. However, as you reach an altitude gain of 1,227 feet, you’ll find that the views from that high up are well-worth the climb. Supposedly, you can see the country of Venezuela from the top, which is around 30 miles away. We wouldn’t recommend this hike for beginners, but you don’t need to be an expert to climb here, either.

9. Concord Falls, Grenada

You’ll find three magnificent waterfalls on a trip through Concord Falls in Grenada. The lower falls are easily accessed with a short hike, but a more strenuous one is required to reach the highest, most impressive one, which measures 65 feet. Take a dip in the refreshing cool water and dive into the natural pools below. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day. You may even get the chance to take a photo with a monkey, or taste chewy cocoa straight from a tree!

Concord Falls, Grenada

10. The Colin Hudson Great Train Hike, Barbados

This hiking trail is actually the site of a railway route that functioned from 1883 until 1937, carrying passengers from Bridgetown to Belleplain. Its twists and turns meander next Barbados’ east coast, offering scenic views of the ocean. “The Great Train Hike” is a national hiking event that began when someone challenged Colin Hudson, an environmentalist and avid hiker, to traipse the entire trail in one day. The route is twenty four miles long. After he completed the challenge, other hikers wanted in on the fun, and so the Great Train Hike annual tradition began. Some locals hike only part of the route; others treat the hike as a race, and try to be the first one to reach the “finish line.” Either way, it’s a unique way to celebrate a man who for many years was at the forefront of the battle for sustainable development in Barbados.

A Caribbean hiking vacation awaits you

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and head to the Caribbean for some fantastic hiking opportunities! Looking for a place to stay while your there? Check out our noise-free private locations, where you can get some much-needed rest after a long day on the trails!

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