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Are you interested in knowing what are the best Caribbean islands for bird watching? Well, this article is perfect for you.
There are many species of birds that make the Caribbean their home as well as migratory birds that visit for certain months of the year.
In this article, we outline the best Caribbean islands for bird watching as well as detail where to stay on these islands.
So let’s get started.
1. St Lucia
Our first recommendation is the Caribbean island of St Lucia which is globally known for its twin majestic peaks called The Pitons.
The island is home to over thirty species of birds which can be seen at the Millet Bird Sanctuary.
This haven for birds is located in the middle of the island and takes approximately an hour walking to complete.
The hike is moderate to strenuous depending on your fitness level and there you can see five endemic birds in St Lucia.
Birds that live at this sanctuary include St Lucia Black Finch, St Lucia Parrot, St Lucia Warbler, St Lucia Oriole and the St Lucia Pewee.
Where To Stay In St Lucia
The best place to stay in St Lucia is in Gros Islet as there are many restaurants, marinas, bars, banks, malls and supermarket all in the vicinity. Additionally, it is easy to access the capital city, Castries from Gros Islet via public transportation.
Bay Garden Hotel, Coco Palm and Harbor Club, St Lucia Curio Collection by Hilton are all phenomenal locations to stay in the heart of Gros Islet with easy access to buses to the capital city, Castries.
Royalton St Lucia is also another premium property ideal for an all-inclusive stay.
For an upscale and world class experience, we recommend Jade Mountain with stunning views of the Pitons. This location is also perfect for an unforgettable romantic honeymoon.
2. Dominica
Also known as the Imperial Amazon, the Sisserou Parrot is the national animal of Dominica.
It is also on the national flag and the coat of arms. The Sisserou Parrot and Jaco Parrot are only found in Dominica.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Morne Trois National Park is home to both of these birds.
This park is also home to the boiling lake which is the second largest in the world.
Where To Stay In Dominica
Fort Young Hotel is the best place to stay in the capital city of Roseau. There is an excellent restaurant on site, an outdoor infinity pool and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
For a breathtaking beach front 5 star stay in Portsmouth which is the second major city, The Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa is the ideal place to stay.
Nestled in the historic Northern region of the island, the hotel is equipped with fitness centre, kids club and restaurant.
For an eco-friendly stay, Rosalie Bay Eco Resort is an outstanding choice. The property features stunning river, sea and mountain views. There is a fitness centre, spa facilities and garden.
3. Trinidad & Tobago
Home to over 400 species of birds, Trinidad & Tobago is an excellent Caribbean island for birdwatchers.
The Scarlet Ibis is the national bird and is found in the Caroni Swamp. This contains fresh and salt water marshes which provide the perfect haven for birds.
Additionally, there are varieties of flora and fauna as part of a 12,000 acres habitat.
Tobago is 115 square miles and is a dependency of mainland Trinidad. The island is also home to over 260 species of birds.
Popular places for birdwatchers to visit include Flagstaff Hill, Adventure Farm & Nature Reserve, Miss Mills Trace, Gilpin Trace and Little Tobago Island.
Where To Stay In Trinidad & Tobago
The best place to stay in Trinidad is the capital city of Port of Spain. The capital is exceptional for business travelers and persons seeking a lively nightlife atmosphere.
For stay in Port of Spain, we suggest Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, Hyatt Regency Trinidad and Radisson Hotel Trinidad.
Tobago is excellent for visitors who want to spend time on picturesque white sand beaches.
Crown Point is the main hub for visitors to the smaller island of Tobago. For stay in Crown Point, we recommend Carolina Point Resort and The Hummingbird.
4. Guyana
Home to over 800 species of birds, Guyana is another great country for bird watchers to consider.
Although the country is situated in South America, Guyana is culturally and economically linked to the Caribbean.
The Canje Phesant or Hoatzin is the national bird of Guyana. It is approximately 22 inches long measured from its beak to tail.
The Hoatzin can be seen throughout the year. Nevertheless, the nesting period is from April to September annually.
Furthermore, the Hoatzin can often be seen along the banks of the Berbice River, the Canje Creek and the Mahaicony and Mahaica Rivers.
Other popular species of birds in Guyana include the Harpy Eagle, Sun Parakeet and the Red Siskin.
Where To Stay In Guyana
There are options available in the country to suit a wide variety of travelers. The best place to stay is in the capital city of Georgetown.
For a budget friendly option in the capital city, we recommend Julian Guest House.
Alternatively, if you prefer a mid-range option we recommend The Durban Hotel Guyana INC.
Finally, the Guyana Marriott Hotel Georgetown is an excellent luxurious resort to consider for your stay in the capital city.
5. Cuba
The Spanish speaking island of Cuba is home to almost four hundred species of birds.
The Cuba Trogon is the national bird and is part of the Trogonidae family.
Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve and Zapata Peninsula are two places to visit for birdwatching.
The Zapata Peninsula is the best place to see the bee hummingbird which is the world’s smallest bird species.
Where To Stay In Cuba
Cuba is such a diverse country that where you stay is largely defined by your interests.
Havana is great for historical visitors and Varadero is excellent for persons who love beaches.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Cayo Santa Maria is the best place to stay and for promenades and tours, Trinidad is the best location.
Casa Pedro- Maria and El Candil Boutique Hotel are great for stay in Havana.
6. Barbuda
Are you fond of frigate birds? The island of Barbuda which is a dependency of mainland Antigua has the largest frigate bird colony in the entire Western hemisphere.
Barbuda Frigate Bird Sanctuary is home to approximately 170 species of birds and over 5,000 frigate birds.
The sanctuary is accessible via a short boat ride and is located in the capital city of Codrington.
Where To Stay In Barbuda
The small capital city of Codrington is the best place to stay in Barbuda.
Harrys Cottages 5 is a great place to consider as well as a 1 bedroom cottage in Codrington.
These all have patio, free private parking and free WIFI.
7. Jamaica
Known as the land of wood and water, Rocklands Bird Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit for bird watching.
Situated in Montego Bay, the sanctuary is peaceful and serene. The birds are friendly so you will enjoy interacting with them.
Types of birds that you can find at the sanctuary include Caribbean doves, Greater Antillean Bullfinch, Jamaican Orioles and Jamaican Tody.
Where To Stay In Jamaica
For proximity to the sanctuary in Montego Bay, Toby’s Resort and Altamont West Hotel are excellent accommodation providers.
Furthermore, if you prefer an all inclusive options in Montego Bay, S Hotel Jamaica and Riu Reggae are two amazing choices.
Alternatively, if you are also considering spending time in Negril and the iconic Seven Mile Beach, we recommend Negril Treehouse Resort, Merrils Beach Resort II and Negril Palms.
Contrastingly, if you are interested in staying in Ocho Rios, Ocean Palms, Hibiscus Lodge Hotel and Pineapple Court Hotel are places that we recommend.
8. Montserrat
Fondly referred to as the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean due to its Irish heritage, Montserrat is only 39.5 square miles but is an ideal place for birdwatchers.
The national bird and animal of the island is the Montserrat Oriole, the scientific name being Icterus Oberi.
This bird is on the coat of arms and is critically endangered due to the destruction of the forest habitat as a result of the volcano.
There are other species of birds that live on Montserrat such as Caribbean Elaenia, Yellow Warbler, Antillean-crested Hummingbird, Scaly-breasted Thrasher and Pearly-eyed Thrasher.
Where To Stay In Montserrat
Montserrat does not have high end all inclusive resort chains. Nevertheless, there are cozy villas and hotels on the island with lots of charm, guaranteed to make your stay comfortable.
Hereunder are two amazing recommendations:-
Famili Villa
This is a four bedroom villa which sleeps approximately nine guests. There is a pool and the property is situated 1.5km from the center of Old Towne.
A deposit is required to cover any incidences. Little Bay Beach mentioned above is situated nearby.
Kurtenas Hideaway
This oceanfront property features three bedrooms with private pool and WIFI.
Little Bay Beach is about 6km away which is about five minutes’ drive. Pets and smoking are not allowed.
Restaurants are about twenty minutes’ drive away. The property can arrange a private chef if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is The Most Unspoilt Caribbean Island?
Dominica is the most unspoilt island in the Caribbean. The island is home to the UNESCO heritage site Morne Trois Pitons National Park where the second largest boiling lake in the world is located. Additionally, there are hot springs, fresh water lakes and volcanoes at the park.
Final Thoughts: Best Caribbean Islands For Bird Watching
We trust that you found this article comprehensive as you plan your birding expedition to the Caribbean.
We are confident that whatever destination you choose that you will make valuable memories and enjoy the wildlife of the destination.
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