How to Plan Your St. Lucia: Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour

St. Lucia is a charming island in the Caribbean, known for its lush tropical forests, stunning beaches, and crystal clear waters. One of the best ways to explore the island’s natural beauty is by taking a guided jungle tour. This St. Lucia: Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour is an excellent option for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, and in this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to plan your tour.

Step 1: Choose your Date and Time

The St. Lucia: Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour takes place in Soufrière and runs throughout the day. You can book your tour at any time that suits your schedule. It is recommended to book your tour in advance to ensure availability.

Step 2: Check the Inclusions

The tour package includes round-trip complimentary transfers, guided tours, a sampling of local banana, and water. Gratuities are accepted but not included in the package. Ensure you read the included details carefully to make the most out of your tour.

Step 3: Book Your Tour

Booking your St. Lucia: Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour is easy. Simply click on the following link to be redirected to the tour’s booking page – book the tour here. Fill in your preferred date, time, and number of people, and follow the instructions to complete your booking.

Step 4: Prepare for the Tour

The tour involves hiking through the tropical rainforest, so comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. You may also want to bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the incredible sights and sounds of the jungle. You can carry a small backpack for essentials and snacks, but be mindful of the weight as you will need to carry it throughout the tour.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tour

On the day of your tour, your guide will meet you at your hotel or a designated pick-up location. From there, you will travel to the Soufrière plantation to begin your rainforest exploration. Your guide will educate you on the rare plants and birds you’ll see throughout the tour, making it informative and fun. You will also have an opportunity to stop for lunch and sample some of St. Lucia’s famous Creole Cuisine.

The Inclusions

The tour is an opportunity to experience the wonder of the lush and tropical rainforest in St. Lucia. The package includes a tour of the rainforest and historical Marigot Bay, a local banana sampling, round-trip complimentary transfers, and gratuities. The guided tour of the rainforest provides an educational, fun-filled experience for visitors. You will have an opportunity to see many rare plants and bird species that you cannot find anywhere else.

The Highlights

The St. Lucia: Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour highlights the beauty of St. Lucia’s natural landscape. It provides the opportunity to explore the island’s lush tropical rainforest and Marigot Bay, which is a significant historical site. You can also enjoy a light lunch under the naturally cooling trees of the rainforest, and sample some of the famous Creole Cuisine. The tour guarantees a fun-filled and memorable experience.

Conclusion

The St. Lucia: Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour is an excellent way to explore the beauty of St. Lucia’s natural rainforest. If you’re an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, this tour is a must-do activity on your trip to St. Lucia. You can easily book the tour by following the steps outlined in this blog post. Make sure to prepare adequately for the tour and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

An Insider’s Guide to the Best of St. Lucia: Your Rainforest and Birdwatching Tour

Welcome to St. Lucia, the hidden gem of the Caribbean. This tropical paradise is the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, then this is one destination you don’t want to miss. With its lush rainforests and abundance of bird species, St. Lucia is every birdwatcher and nature enthusiast’s dream. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your perfect rainforest and birdwatching tour of St. Lucia.

Rainforest Adventures in St. Lucia

St. Lucia is known for its incredible rainforests, which cover around 19,000 acres of land. The serene nature walks present a unique opportunity for visitors to see the amazing tropical flora and fauna. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, and you can choose the one that feels right for you. Here are a few top-rated options:

– The Enbas Saut Trail: This trail runs along the highest peak on the island, Mount Gimie. It is a great option for experienced hikers, and it can take up to 8 hours to complete the 13.5 km-long trail. The hike usually takes you through a dense rainforest, over streams and waterfalls, and offers fantastic views of the St. Lucia countryside.
– Edmund Forest Reserve: A 2-hour moderate hike through Edmund Forest Reserve will amaze you with the sights and sounds of the Caribbean. Expect to see a myriad of flora and fauna, including orchids, bromeliads, tree ferns, and colorful bird species like the St. Lucia parrot.
– Barre de l’Isle Forest Reserve: This reserve is known for its easy to moderate hikes. Notable picnic areas are sandwiched by the scenic river, rainforests, and rocky edges. A wide variety of bird species will make sure you leave with unforgettable experiences.

Birdwatching in St. Lucia

St. Lucia is a birdwatcher’s haven and home to over 170 unique bird species. You’re likely to encounter most of these species near the forest reserves, but some of the best birding spots include:

– Millet Bird Sanctuary: This is one of the best birdwatching spots in St. Lucia. It is located on the west coast of the island and is home to various endemic bird species like the St. Lucia Black Finch and Lesser Antillean Bullfinch. Guided tours are available, making it easier to navigate the area.
– Pigeon Island National Park: Pigeon Island is within the urbanized area of Gros Islet and offers complementary birdwatching experiences. The observation tower provides prime viewing spots for bird species like the Bridled Quail-Dove, Antillean Palm Swift, and Mangrove Cuckoo.
– Des Cartiers Rainforest: This reserve is a must-visit for birdwatching enthusiasts. Located in the mountains on the eastern coast of the island, the reserve is home to various endemic bird species like the St. Lucia Oriole, St. Lucia Pewee, and St. Lucia Parrot.

Local Dining and Cultural Experiences in St. Lucia

The local food and experiences of St. Lucia are as amazing as the natural beauty and bird species. Here are some places you need to visit while in St. Lucia:

– The Coal Pot Restaurant: This family-run restaurant in Soufrière offers authentic St. Lucian cuisine with a European twist. Coconut-crusted shrimp is a must-try.
– Meme Bete Crabback: This seafood restaurant is just a short walk from Millet Bird Sanctuary. It offers delicious seafood, including the must-have dish, Crabback.
– Fond Doux Plantation and Resort: This 100-acre cocoa plantation doubles up as a resort and provides an authentic plantation experience that includes cocoa picking and processing.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

St. Lucia’s rich history is part of what makes it stand out from other Caribbean islands. Visit sites like:

– Fort Charlotte: The historic fort is located in the capital city of Castries. It was built in the 18th Century and played a critical role in the Battle of St. Lucia.
– Marigot Bay: This small bay on the west coast was once a haven for pirates and a navigational landmark for American submarines during World War II.
– Soufrière: Just a few miles from Jalousie Beach, this old fishing village is known for its colonial-era buildings and active morning markets.

St. Lucia has hidden treasures waiting to be explored that you won’t find in tourist brochures. Make a point to meet an artisan, take salsa lessons, or have a stroll in Anse Chastanet beach, which is known for its amazing sunset views. Whatever you do, be sure to take home precious memories that will last a lifetime.