Barbados is brimming with adventure activities, whether you’re looking for spills and thrills or something a little more laidback and relaxing. Despite being known as being a location for being a beach holiday destination, Barbados has plenty to offer for those who want to experience something different during their trip.
All ages and fitness levels are catered for, with options ranging from beach and water activities to hiking or safari tours.
Among the most popular activities are those involving both water and wildlife. All kinds of exotic wildlife make their home in or around Barbados, where there are several nature sanctuaries or national parks where you can experience the flora and fauna of the island.
Scuba diving in the clear blue waters takes you into a colourful new world and even beginners can get involved by taking a diving course.
Certificated diving courses are available for around £500 and one of the most popular diving centres is located at Carlisle Bay. Being the area where four ships were wrecked in the earlier part of the 20th century, the bay is reputed to have the most diverse sea life around the island.
If you prefer to stay on top of the water, but still want to experience the thrill of the sea, a power-boat adventure to the hidden bays, snorkelling with turtles en-route, may be more to your taste.
Organised tours such as Cool Runnings include all the necessary equipment, such as snorkel masks and vests, in the price, along with refreshments to revive you after snorkelling.
Prices for turtle and snorkelling cruises for adults are around £40, although you would need to check with your tour provider and prices may vary because of the exchange rate. The currency used in Barbados is the US dollar. If you prefer to find your own snorkelling locations, you may want to try Dottins Reef or Bell Bouy, both of which are beautiful places.
Alternatives to water-based adventures include hiking in the northern and eastern regions of the island, where you’ll find some of the most stunning scenery.
The Arbib Heritage and Nature Trail offers two hikes that are suitable for different fitness levels. The more strenuous trail runs through gullies and various plantations and leads to some ruins in the remote northern areas.
A shorter and easier option is a hike through Speightstown, taking in side streets and traditional buildings. Organised hikes are available from around £30, with special rates for group bookings. Day-long hikes or moonlit walks are also on offer for those who either like a longer walk or who prefer something a little different.
As with all hikes or treks, suitable shoes, loose clothing and sunscreen are advisable. Most organisers would also encourage you to take a small bottle of water and a camera.
Fun lovers will enjoy Segway activities. For the uninitiated, a Segway is the best way to get off the beaten track and motor through sand or grass and over gravel or rocky terrain.
Segway vehicles are two-wheeled, stand-on machines that are operated by body movements. Lean forward to accelerate and right or left to change direction. Summer and winter rates vary, but are generally around the £45 mark for adults during the summer. Tours take you across cliff tops, past cows and Black Belly sheep, making regular stops for photo calls and refreshments.
Submarine rides can provide life-long memories. They’re one of the most popular underwater activities in Barbados, diving to view shipwrecks by either day or night. The tours come with a guide so you always know what you’re looking at.
They are suitable for almost all ages, although there is a height restriction of three feet and are the perfect way for the family to have an adventure together. Prices run at around £70 per adult and last for up to 1.5 hours.
Holidaying on the tropical island of Barbados doesn’t mean simply lying passively in the sun. There is so much to see and do that even the most energetic of tourists will be fully entertained.
