Saint Lucia is a beautiful volcanic island in the Caribbean Lesser Antilles that is just 27 miles in length and 14 miles wide. There are a rich variety of habitats from mangroves, dry forest, grasslands and rainforest in the interior. Over 176 bird species can be spotted in Saint Lucia with five endemic birds including the St Lucia parrot and the St Lucia Oriole. St Lucia is well known for its stunning beaches but there is also beautiful tropical rainforest to explore as well as mountain trails and waterfalls. The iconic Pitons, two dormant volcanoes, tower majestically over the town of Soufrieres on the south east coast of the island and Gros Piton can be climbed by the more adventurous on a full day trek.
A guided birding walk in the less visited Des Cartier Rainforest is an opportunity to see the St Lucia Parrot with its impressive colours, you will also experience the beauty of the rainforest flora including giant tree ferns, orchids and bromeliads.
Saint Lucia has a rich heritage and culture. Originally inhabited by Carib and Arawak Indians, Saint Lucia then became of strategic importance during wars between England and France. Visiting Pigeon Island in the north offers an opportunity learn more about the history at Rodney Fort (a military fort for many years) and combine with a hike affording beautiful coastal views.
Saint Lucian’s love to have fun and there are weekly, street parties with live music at a number of local villages including Gros Islet and Anse La Raye.
There are plenty of excursions in Saint Lucia and a 10 day or two week itinerary can include inland trips such as guided bird watching, rainforest walks, waterfalls, mountain hikes and visiting local communities. Opportunities exist for chocolate making, cooking classes and visiting volcanic mud baths and seeing sulphur springs. Combined with coastal boat trips to snorkel and see whales and dolphins offshore.
The dry season coincides with the dry season for Saint Lucia which is between December and the end of March, however, holidays to Saint Lucia can occur all year round. In the summer months, sunshine can be interspersed with short, brief showers.
Getting to Saint Lucia from the UK couldn't be easier with daily direct flights with British Airways from London Gatwick from November to March and then mostly 4 times a week through April to October.