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Harrison's Cave in Barbados 2023-2024

Barbados' top tourist attraction promises an escapade to remember

Best time: all year round

Barbados Tourist Encyclopedia calls Harrison's Cave one of the seven wonders on the island for a reason. The cave is full of stalactites hanging from the roof and stalagmites emerging from the ground, accomplished with crystal-clear waterfalls and emerald pools. You can find this gem of Barbados tucked in the central uplands of St. Thomas parish, just south of Welchman Hall Gully. Merely join a guided Harrison's Cave tour by electrical tram and enjoy the adventure.

Harrison's Cave tour

Tram tours through Harrison's Cave run all year round. A well-informed guide ensures that you behold the most impressive sights along the underground journey. Though most of your time you'll stay in the tram car, at specific points you'll be able to leave the tram and explore the natural gallery up close. Additionally, you can opt for a walking tour or a special Eco tour. For further details on the tours, please check with the organizers.

How to get there & where to stay

As you find Harrison's Cave Eco-Adventure Park on the map, you'll see the cave is situated in the middle of the island. The site is roughly 9 mi (15 km) from the national airport and about 5 mi (8 km) from Bridgetown, Holetown, and Bathsheba. You can get to the community of Allen View by a public bus or taxi, but renting a car is the most convenient option. Also, consider booking accommodations in advance (see the map below) so that you can kick back and enjoy your stay once you get there.

Interesting facts about Harrison's Cave

There are several interesting facts about Harrison's Cave. It sits at 700 ft (210 m) above the sea; the biggest cavitation within the cave measures almost 50 ft (15 m) high; the temperature underground hits 81 °F (27 °C). But the most awe-inspiring feature is the cave's constant growth. Admittedly, the yearly change might be thinner than a sheet of paper. Yet, such alterations are considered fast in geological terms.

History of Harrison's Cave

The first mention of Harrison's Cave as a tourist attraction in Barbados dates back to 1795. Yet, the first serious speleological explorations of the underground environment started only in 1970, and the cave finally opened to the public in 1981.

Practical info

When is the best time of year to visit Harrison's Cave in Barbados?

Visitors can explore Harrison's Cave in Barbados all year round but it's best to visit between December to May, during the dry season, to minimize closed-off areas due to rainfall. Despite the season, the cave remains at a constant temperature of approximately 27°C (81°F) throughout the year.

How do I get to Harrison's Cave and what are some nearby accommodations?

Located in the central uplands of St. Thomas Parish in Barbados, Harrison's Cave is accessible by public buses, taxis, or car rentals. To reach the community of Allen View, visitors must travel about 8 km from Bridgetown, Holetown, or Bathsheba while covering around 15 km from the national airport. Additionally, numerous accommodation options near the cave can be booked beforehand. Examples of nearby lodgings include The Crane Resort, Coral Mist Beach Hotel, and Silver Point Hotel.

Can I explore the cave on foot or must I take the tram tour?

Harrison's Cave in Barbados offers various tour options such as the popular tram tour, a walking tour, and an eco-tour. The tram ride is a comprehensive tour to observe the cave's highlights and explore on foot on specific occasions. Guests that opt for eco-tours or walking tours have the option to exclusively traverse the cave on foot. The tram tour covers more territory than the other tour selections.

What are some unique features of Harrison's Cave, such as its temperature or growth?

Harrison's Cave in Barbados is renowned for its constant growth, in which yearly changes occur even if they're only as thin as paper, alongside its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The cave's most prominent cavitation measures close to 15 meters tall. Regardless of the outdoor tropical temperature, the cave maintains a constant temperature of around 27°C (81°F), making it a pleasant experience for travelers.

What is the history of Harrison's Cave and when did it become a tourist attraction?

Although the first mention of Harrison's Cave in Barbados goes back to 1795, notable explorations didn't take place until 1970. The cave finally became accessible to the audience in 1981 and has been an acclaimed tourist spot since then, captivating thousands of visitors annually. Ongoing renovations have been done to enhance the cave's mystique and continue to stupefy visitors with its immaculate natural attributes.

External resources

Find hotels and airbnbs near Harrison's Cave (Map)

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