Discover the Flora & Fauna of the Caribbean

May 26, 2024 - Sandals Resorts - Jamaica

With the RHS Chelsea Flower Show having us all turning our attention to the beautiful flowers and plant life around us, it got us to thinking about the incredible flora and fauna of the Caribbean. The tropical climate of the Caribbean means you can discover all kinds of plants that don’t naturally flourish in the UK, making it the perfect location for any nature lover to explore!

Whether on resort or out exploring your chosen island on an Island Routes excursion, you’re sure to discover all kinds of botanical delights. Plenty of our resorts boast landscaped gardens, meaning just taking a stroll down the path from your room to the beach will see you surrounded with colourful flowers and palm trees swaying gently in the sea breeze. For the flower lovers we recommend a stay at Sandals Grande Antigua, voted as the world’s most romantic resort, where lush gardens adorn the resort and add to the enchanting feel of the place. Particularly perfect for a wedding, here you can opt to say ‘I do’ surrounded by the mesmerising colours and sweet scent of the flowers, making the occasion even more special.

Of course outside the neatly organised resort gardens there’s plenty more to discover in the wild rainforests of the Caribbean. Here you can find vibrant indigenous plant species that thrive in this environment, and our Island Routes excursions are a great way to discover them with an expert guide at your side. Check out a few of our top picks below.

Croydon in the Mountains, Jamaica – Not just great for visiting the historical Croydon Plantation which still to this day produces pineapple and coffee, the journey to this plantation proves especially exciting for nature lovers. As you journey into the majestic mountainous country enroute to the plantation, expect to find lush vegetation, wild flowers and trickling waterfalls awaiting you. Upon arrival enjoy incredible views and learn the history of the plantation.

Jamaica Swamp Safari Village Tour, Jamaica – Journey through lush, green, untouched rainforests at Jamaica Swamp Safari Village, and experience Mother Nature's finest. Discover the incredible plant life that surrounds you, as well as some amazing animal species too, with your guide on hand to make sure you spot all the points of interest. This is sure to be a trip to remember for any nature lover.

Soufriere Fountain of Youth, Saint Lucia – This excursion allows you to soak up the natural beauty of Saint Lucia, as you sail along the west coast and through fishing villages and journey up to a Plantation House for lunch. However, for plant lovers the real highlight will be the extended tour of the Botanical Gardens located in Soufriere the and rainforest walk that takes you up to the plantation – giving you plenty of opportunity to admire the flora and fauna of the Saint Lucia.

Parrot’s Bath and Hike, Saint Lucia – Don't forget your walking shoes on this incredible hike through the tropical rainforest. Starting in Bexon, one of the flattest lines of the rainforest, you'll wander through the tall trees and have the chance to admire vibrant plants, while also keeping an eye out for some of the island's native birds, including the National Bird, the Saint Lucian Parrot.

So if the fantastic displays at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show have given you a passion for flowers and plants, make sure you inject a bit of the Caribbean’s natural beauty into your next holiday!