Barbados Wildlife Reserve

If you fancy taking a break from sun loungers and snorkelling, there’s no better place to visit than the Barbados Wildlife Reserve a wonderful, tropical haven teeming with native and non-native creatures. Located in the northern parish of St Peter, this reserve is the perfect spot for a fun-filled, family day out. Kids will love watching the animals roaming around freely in their natural, unspoilt habitat, while the adults can appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the efforts of those running this protected sanctuary.

While the scenery in Barbados is generally breathtaking, this wildlife reserve adds a splash of colour to the mix with its array of exotic animals, ranging from pink flamingos and multi-coloured parrots to azure-sapphire peacocks. Marvel at these fantastic creatures as you meander through the walk-through aviary, one of the highlights of the reserve.

A host of reptiles await you from turtles, tortoises and iguanas to snakes – but don’t worry if you’re a feeling a little nervous at the thought of meeting these slippery little friends as they are kept in a controlled and confined area. Keep an eye out for the unique, non-native animals that can be seen rambling around the bushes and trees as you walk along the shady path, such as caimans, brocket deer, armadillos and agouti, cute little tropical American rodents. As you wander around the reserve, please bear in mind that these animals are not tame and may become frightened by unexpected noises.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve’s main attraction is its collection of green monkeys, a rare species of monkey hailing from Senegal and Gambia in West Africa. Coincide your journey with feeding time and watch these cheeky primates swinging from treetop to treetop to get their hands on some fresh fruit. Capture the moment by taking a few snaps of these energetic creatures as they munch away to their heart’s content.

Get back to nature and spend an entertaining day at this wonderful wildlife reserve there is an entry fee, which also includes access to the Grenade Hall Forest and Signal Station located nearby, and there is plenty of free parking available should you choose to drive.