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There's so much to discover about this island - from the historic homes and buildings to the underground wonder of our natural caves. You will see our natural beauty in the tropical flowers that bloom around you and the breathtaking landscapes and seascapes and that abound. One can take a tour of the local towns and villages to truly experience Bajan life!!
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Ocean Park is a unique attraction bringing the spectacular underwater world of Barbados to all - without having to get wet! Ocean Park displays a fascinating collection of freshwater and tropical marine life of the Caribbean in a way that is exciting, unique and educational.
The Andromeda Botanical Garden, found in the parish of St.Joseph, is a six-acre garden containing several varieties of orchids, palms, ferns, heliconia, hibiscus, bougainvillea, begonias and cacti. The beautiful and exotic flowers and trees are complemented by a lovely stream which bisects the land and forms enchanting pools and waterfalls. The name Andromeda is derived from the mythical Greek goddess who was chained to a rock. Work on the Garden was started in 1954 by Mrs. Iris Bannochie, a local horticulturist. At her death, Mrs. Bannochie bequeathed Andromeda to the Barbados National Trust, which now runs the Garden.
Orchid! The very name evokes exotic mysticism and is truly one of nature's wonders. Orchid World, located on a six acre former chicken/pig farm, is surrounded by sugarcane in the heart of the Barbadian countryside. With an elevation of 810 ft a number of vantage points allow you to take in the view. The location is ideal for growing and displaying the more than 20,000 Orchids. The well-landscaped, meandering path leads you on a self guided tour past a waterfall, through a coral grotto and eventually through five orchid houses. Many orchids are also on display along the path edge. Keep your eyes on the trees for orchids such as Schomburgkia that bloom once a year with spectacular results. Each turn of a corner offers a new and different view or floral delight.
Folkestone Marine Park features an artificial reef, purposefully formed by the sinking of the ship Stavronikita which had been destroyed by fire in 1976. The ship rests in 120ft of water, less than half a mile from the shore. As a result of its depth, diving the Stavronikita is recommended only for experienced divers in the company of others.
The Graeme Hall Swamp, located in the parish of Christ Church, is the largest expanse of inland water in Barbados and the swamp's Red and White Mangrove trees provide a natural habitat for several local species of birds. In addition the swamp is also a temporary home for a large number of migrant and wintering water and shore birds.
Harrison’s cave: With an abundance of stalactites, stalagmites, streams, lakes and waterfalls, leading speleologists consider it to be among the finest showcases in the world. The Caves are located near the geographical centre of Barbados, in the parish of St. Thomas and are natural phenomenons affording an experience unique in the tropical world: a trip aboard a special tram through the exciting subterranean stream passages.
The Animal Flower Cave is located at the most Northerly point of Barbados in the parish of St.Lucy. The name "Animal Flower Cave" comes from the sea anemones found in the pools of the cave. Some of these pools are deep enough for you to swim in! There are also several openings looking out to sea, offering some spectacular views. The now famous cave has been featured in singer Billy Ocean's music videos and in the soap opera "Bold and Beautiful".
Joe's River Tropical Rain Forest consists of 85 acres of woodlands situated in the parish of St.Joseph. With the imposing Hackletons cliff on one side and the picturesque Atlantic Ocean on the other, this site is a nature-lover's paradise! The Forest is the responsibility of the National Conservation Commission which has developed nature trails and picnic areas throughout the Forest. The more adventurous among you might wish to stay a weekend in the rustic wooden houses being built in the Woods.
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is located in a natural mahogany wood across the road from the Farley hill national park in the parish of St.Peter. Visitors are offered a unique opportunity to stroll freely through the Reserve, which is primarily a monkey sanctuary. They can observe the green monkeys of Barbados at close range and in their own natural environment. There are few cages and the animals can be observed as they eat, play and interact with the other animals. Other animals that can be found at the Reserve are ducks, turtles, tortoises, birds, peacocks, otters, racoons, agouti, and deer.
Welchman Hall Gully, located in the parish of St.Thomas, is a three-quarter mile (1.2km) long "gully" (really a garden) and home to a number of tropical plants trees, including nutmeg, bamboo, clove and palms. In addition to the impressive flora, look out for the world's largest pillar (the joining of a stalactite and stalagmite) and the gazebo, which looks out to the Atlantic Ocean.
