t Zip lining over lush Labadee in Haiti on the Dragon’s Breath
The Caribbean isn’t just about kicking back in a hammock on a beach. Whether you’re seeking to bicycle, parasail, or ride high on a rainforest zipline, the islands offer endless possibilities for outdoor adventure.
t Zip lining over lush Labadee in Haiti on the Dragon’s Breath
Zip lining is an easy, initially intimidating, adventure to get the adrenalin pumping. Fly like Superman at La Bestia, in Puerto Rico; drop 500 ft (150 m) over the ocean on the Dragon’s Breath zip line in Haiti; and marvel at Saint Lucia’s beauty with Treetop Canopy Adventures. For an unbeatable thrill, give Rainforest Adventures’ The Flying Dutchman a try – the world’s steepest zip line, at Sint Maarten.
You’ll sweat for your reward, but the islands seem even more beautiful from the seat of a bicycle. The Dominican Republic’s rugged terrain is perfect for energetic cyclists; Iguana Mama (iguanamama.com) in Cabarete has trips for beginners through to hardcore cycling junkies. On bike-friendly Tobago, end your ride along forest trails with a cool dip in the sea or at a waterfall; contact Mountain Biking Tobago (mountainbikingtobago.com) for an unforgettable experience.
As geology differs throughout the Caribbean chain, the choice of terrain varies from flat and barren to mountainous and forested. The mountainous isles are laced with excellent trails. Some of the finest trekking is on Saba, with its steep hills, deep vales, and short yet magnificent trails that crisscross the isle. For a full-on adventure, lace up your boots for the overnight trek up the Dominican Republic’s Pico Duarte, the Caribbean’s highest mountain. The Reef Bay Trail in St. John, Virgin Isands, is also worth a trek, running downhill and past a pool inscribed with petroglyphs.
Whether you’re seeking a sunset canter along a beach or a lengthier excursion, opportunities for horseback riding abound. In Jamaica, enjoy an exhilarating swim with your horse in the ocean at the renowned Half Moon Equestrian Center (horsebackridingjamaica.com). A riding excursion in the lush and verdant Valle de Viñales is to explore Cuba a lo cubano (like a Cuban).
DISCOVER The Caribbean Your Way
Shirley Heights, Antigua
Make this short hike for sunset and the party that follows.
Guanapo Gorge, Trinidad
This breathtaking gorge has fascinating geological features.
Mount Jamanota, Aruba
The steep but short trek up the mountain in the Arikok National Park offers fantastic views from the summit.
Seven Sisters Falls, Grenada
A two-hour trek in the Grand Étang Forest Reserve that passes seven lovely waterfalls.
Crispeen Track, Saba
Be transported from Windwardside to The Bottom, with fine views.