There are endless reasons visiting the Caribbean sister islands of Antigua and Barbuda should top your bucket list. The profound natural beauty of this destination is as good a reason as any: with its numerous white-sand beaches, lush rainforests, and warm tropical waters, it is easy to fall in love with the outdoors of Antigua and Barbuda.
Of course, visiting Antigua and Barbuda is the ideal location for some R&R on the beach…but who’s to say relaxation can’t take the form of a scenic hike? After all, being in nature is known to reduce stress! Whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or something more challenging, Antigua and Barbuda has the perfect trail for you!
Wallings Nature Reserve
Wallings Nature Reserve is more than just a beautiful hiking spot. This storied reserve is a community-managed National Park that focuses on sustainability while protecting Antigua’s biodiversity. Wallings Nature Reserve consists of roughly 1,680 acres of rainforest in the Shekerley Mountains with many walking trails intertwined throughout the park. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or rarely go for walks, there is a trail for everyone at Wallings Nature Reserve. The abundance of plants and trees makes Wallings Nature Reserve an ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature. The trails throughout the reserve vary in distance, ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours to complete. Whichever route you choose, make sure to take your time; you’d hate to walk by a mango tree and miss out on a mid-hike snack!
Guests can book a guided tour at Wallings Nature Reserve on their website, and the cost of the tours varies depending on which guided hike you choose. There is a $6 USD entrance fee to access the park area of the reserve, or if you wish to use any of the hiking trails and park, the cost is $15 USD. If you give 48 hours of notice, Wallings can prepare lunch and a drink for guests.
Green Castle Hill National Park
Green Castle Hill National Park is known for spectacular scenic views and captivating rock formations jutting out from the slopes. Green Castle Hill is located next to the village of Jennings, on the west side of Antigua near its volcanic highlands. The hill’s highest point reaches 565 feet above sea level, making the trek up the hill slightly steep but nothing a beginner hiker can’t handle. The rock formations known as megaliths, which are found along the slopes, contribute to the popularity of this hike. Megaliths are prehistoric rock structures, and the ones located at Green Castle Hill are said to be set up by pre-Columbian tribes who likely used the stones for ceremonial purposes. So, if you want to simultaneously cross a history lesson and a hike off your vacation to-do list, this is the sport for you.
Mount Obama
If you want to take in some of the most incredible views and hike through what feels like a tropical rainforest, consider making the trek up Mount Obama; and yes, it is named after the former U.S president! Mount Obama, formerly Boggy Peak, is Antigua’s highest point offering panoramic views of the island and, on clear days, the neighbouring islands of St. Kitts and Montserrat. Although the hike is somewhat strenuous, the journey through a canopy of trees to reach a 360-degree view of the island is worth the sweat. Altogether, the hike is about 6.6km long and will take a few hours to go up and down. Completing the hike up Mount Obama is rewarding and you’ll deserve a relaxing drink at the beach when you’re done. Luckily, Turners Beach is only 20 minutes away making it a perfect spot to grab a bite and recharge.
Antigua and Barbuda offer many different trails that provide unbelievable views. Besides the three walking trails listed, there are many other remarkable destinations for walking and hiking. Any of Antigua and Barbuda’s national parks make for great adventures. So, rather than experiencing Antigua and Barbuda solely from the comfort of your resort, go out and explore the blissful creation the twin-island nation has to offer.
