Things To See And Do In Saint Kitts and Nevis
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, one would find the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. One country comprising two islands, both epitomizing island paradise.
In the last decade, the Federation’s economy diversified from sugar to tourism, making Saint Kitts and Nevis now buzzwords in the global tourism industry, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
Both islands boast of miles of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and world-class hotels and resorts but these merely scratch the surface of what the two-island state has to offer.
Here, we’ve compiled a list of things you should know before you plan your trip to the Federation.
Smallest Country in the Western Hemisphere:
Saint Kitts and Nevis holds the title of being the smallest country in the Americas, both in terms of land area and population. But don’t let its size fool you; it’s brimming with experiences.
Birthplace of Alexander Hamilton:
Nevis is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America. His childhood home in Charlestown now serves as the Alexander Hamilton Museum.
Historic Capital:
Basseterre, the capital city situated on Saint Kitts, boasts colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and the National Museum, giving visitors a glimpse into the islands’ rich history.
UNESCO World Heritage Site:
The Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, a well-preserved fortress, offers panoramic views and is a testament to European military engineering in the Caribbean.
Beach Diversity:
Nevis, the smaller of the two islands, is renowned for its golden sandy beaches, while Saint Kitts has a mix of black and golden sands, each with its unique allure.
Natural Hot Springs:
Just outside Charlestown, Nevis, you’ll find natural hot springs known for their therapeutic properties, believed to be the bathhouse of British soldiers in colonial times.
Plantation Inns:
Both islands boast a number of beautifully restored plantation inns. These former sugar plantations offer a unique lodging experience and often combine colonial architecture with modern luxury.
Volcanic Adventures:
Both islands are volcanic in origin. Mount Liamuiga on Saint Kitts offers adventurous treks, leading hikers through lush rainforests to its crater.
Cultural Festivals:
From the pulsating beats of Carnival in December-January to the St. Kitts Music Festival in June, the islands come alive with music, dance, and vibrant celebrations throughout the year. Culturama
Foodie Delights:
The local cuisine is a blend of African, European, and Creole influences. Don’t miss trying the national dish, stewed saltfish served with spicy plantains, coconut dumplings, and seasoned breadfruit.
Sustainable Efforts:
The islands are making concerted efforts toward sustainable tourism, preserving their natural beauty for future generations. This includes initiatives to protect marine life and conserve native flora and fauna.
PORT ZANTE is literally the heart of the islands cruise tourism industry. This is where all the ships dock and tourists disembark to explore the wonder of Saint Kitts. On any given day, you can see hundreds of tourists milling around, going from shop to shop, as they purchase souvenirs and sample local eats and drinks on sale. Many spend as much as US$10 to pose and take pictures wit vervet monkeys usually adorned in the cutest outfits by their respective trainers/handlers.
SAINT KITTS SCENIC RAILWAY – The prettiest way to experience Saint Kitts is a ride on the old sugar train which has been transformed into a charming Scenic Railway Tour. The St Kitts Scenic Railway takes passengers on a 3-hour tour that makes a 30-mile circle around the island. Built between 1912 and 1926, the railway and train were once used to transport sugar cane from plantations to the factory in Basseterre. The Scenic Railway is said to be the last railway in the West Indies and provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the islands unspoiled scenery while being treated to stories of its rich and colourful history.
