St. Kitts Rainforest Adventure

OVERVIEW

Explore the ruins of a 17th-century sugar plantation before hiking into the rainforest with a naturalist guide that will describe the fascinating flora and fauna. While meandering the grounds of Wingfield Estate, you will see the remains of its aqueduct, mill house, lime kiln and rum distillery, which is the oldest in the Caribbean. It was one of the few distilleries that was water-powered rather than wind-powered. Following this intriguing glimpse into the past, you will hike into the surrounding wilderness, a wonderland of tropical plants that includes palms, bamboo, ferns and poinciana, the island’s national tree. It was named for the first French governor of St. Kitt’s, Monsieur de Poincy, and typically blooms in mid-summer. You may also spot colorful birds such as the bananaquit, purple martin and Antillean crested hummingbird, all of which have been portrayed on postage stamps. The brown pelican is the island’s national bird.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the ruins of 17th-century Wingfield Estate, home to the Caribbean’s oldest distillery.
• Enjoy a leisurely hike into the mountainous rainforest that surrounds the estate.
• Observe exotic flora and fauna in the rainforest, which the naturalist guide will describe.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.