Hiking in Barbados

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Barbados is only 21 mi (34 km) long and 14 mi (23 km) wide. So why not explore it on foot? You can choose to hike coastal trails or rural inland areas, walk rolling hills and grasslands, breathe in the fresh air of dense rainforests, or head to the unbeatable rugged northeast with its dramatic cliffs. Dozens of guided hikes around the island are organized by the Barbados National Trust and Barbados Hiking Associations. The tours are free, but feel free to make donations to the National Trust.

Best season for hiking in Barbados

For the best weather, skip the hurricane season from June to November. The other drier half of the year, December through May, is also better since the average temperature drops slightly. At least, avoid the month of August, which is excessively hot and humid. Anyway, tropical climate means the days are pretty hot year-round. So most guided trips start either around 6 am, or 3:30 pm, when the sun is less scorching.

Barbados hiking trails

While the best beaches sit mainly on the west Caribbean coast, the most breathtaking hiking trails can be found along the wild east Atlantic coast, further from tourist sites. The distances differ from 5 mi (8 km) to 20 mi (32 km). Most routes are rated easy, and only some are moderate.

Bathsheba Coastal Walk

You can start your hiking adventures in Bathsheba. Go southeast to Bathsheba Coastal Walk, spanning 4 mi (7 km) to Bath. You'll see an abandoned railway and fascinating seascapes all along the way. The route is easy and requires about 2.5 hours to complete.

Coast-to-Coast Trail

If you want to escape the sea and explore the in-land, set off to the Coast-to-Coast Trail, which starts north of Bathsheba, at the border of St. Andrew and St. Joseph parishes, and ends on the opposite side of the island at Holetown. This route is 10 mi (17 km) long and takes a little more than 5 hours.

Nature & Heritage Trail

If you prefer to remain on the west coast, Nature & Heritage Trail, designed by Barbados National Trust, is your best option. This leisurely 3-hour round-trip starts outside St. Peter's Church in Speightstown. It features panoramic views of the Caribbean coast, the mysterious gully called The Whim, Warleight Plantation, the 18th-century Dover Fort, and Heywoods Beach. Besides the cultural and historical sites, you will likely encounter indigenous Barbados Blackbelly sheep.

Mount Hillaby

If you feel like a bit more strenuous hiking, opt for Mt. Hillaby, which is Barbados' highest point at 1,115 ft (340 m). The peak, known for its misty morning views, is located in the north-central part of the island. The summit reveals captivating panoramas of northern and eastern Barbados. To the west, you'll see a series of terraces descending to the sea.

Turner's Hall Wood

Also, we suggest that you explore the biodiversity of the Scottish District at Turner's Hall Wood. The pre-colonial Barbados must have looked somewhat similar to this tropical rainforest with thick vegetation, undisturbed and completely immaculate. When you've got enough green therapy, you can hike through the Barkleys Trail down to the east coast and also meditate by the side of the Atlantic.

Hiking trails map

Lastly, what could be more comforting than a refreshing shower and a cozy bed after hours of walking? You can find all Barbados' hiking areas on the map and book accommodations nearby.