Exploring the Caribbean island of St. Kitts has never been easier. The Exotic Island Tour from Basseterre offers visitors a chance to enjoy the island’s rich history and captivating landscapes. From the vibrant capital to the UNESCO-recognized Brimstone Hill Fortress, this small-group adventure showcases the best of St. Kitts. With knowledgeable guides, unique shopping opportunities, and breathtaking vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this exotic journey?
Key Points
- Departs from the capital city of Basseterre, St Kitts, providing a small-group experience with a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Highlights include the Caribelle Batik factory, Brimstone Hill National Fortress, Black Rocks, and the Timothy Hill overlook.
- Offers a guided tour with live commentary, showcasing the historic center of Basseterre and its colonial-era landmarks.
- Provides an opportunity to experience the vibrant art of batik-making and take home a unique souvenir.
- Explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brimstone Hill Fortress, offering scenic views and insights into St. Kitts’ rich cultural heritage.
Tour Overview
The Exotic Island Tour departs from Basseterre, the capital city of St Kitts, an island nation in the West Indies.
Departing from Basseterre, the capital of St Kitts in the West Indies, the Exotic Island Tour begins.
This small-group tour takes visitors on a journey through the island’s highlights, including the historic Basseterre, the Caribelle Batik factory, the impressive Brimstone Hill National Fortress, the dramatic Black Rocks, and the scenic Timothy Hill overlook.
Travelers experience the tour in a private air-conditioned vehicle with live commentary from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes designated pickup and drop-off points, and participants have time for lunch at their own expense and optional souvenir photos.
Looking for more options in St Kitts? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring Basseterre
As the tour begins, visitors are introduced to the vibrant capital city of Basseterre. The small yet bustling port town is the economic and political heart of St. Kitts.
Travelers stroll through the charming historic center, admiring the colonial-era buildings and lively markets. The tour highlights the landmark Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, an impressive Gothic-style cathedral dating back to the 17th century.
Nearby, the Circus roundabout showcases the island’s British heritage, featuring a replica of London’s Trafalgar Square. From here, the tour ventures beyond the city limits to explore the island’s natural wonders and historic sites.
The Caribelle Batik Experience
What better place to experience the vibrant art of batik-making than at the Caribelle Batik studio?
Nestled in the lush tropical gardens, the studio offers visitors a glimpse into this centuries-old technique. Guests can witness skilled artisans crafting intricate designs on fabric using wax and dye.
The process involves strategically applying wax to create patterns, then submerging the fabric in colored dyes. After several rounds of this, the result is a stunning, one-of-a-kind piece.
The fabric is strategically coated in wax to create intricate patterns, then dipped in colored dyes, resulting in a unique, stunning piece.
Visitors can browse the colorful collection and even try their hand at batik-making, taking home a unique souvenir.
Discovering Brimstone Hill Fortress
After departing the Caribelle Batik studio, the tour continues to one of the region’s most impressive historical sites – the Brimstone Hill Fortress.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 17th-century fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into the colonial past. Visitors can explore the impressive stone walls, ramparts, and restored buildings that showcase the ingenious engineering and strategic design.
Guides share the fortress’ history, from its construction by enslaved Africans to its key role in conflicts between the British and French.
With stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, Brimstone Hill provides a compelling introduction to St. Kitts’ rich heritage.
Admiring the Black Rocks
Next, the tour takes visitors to the unique geological formation known as the Black Rocks. These volcanic rock formations, created by ancient lava flows, stand out against the island’s lush landscape.
Guests can:
-
Admire the striking contrast of the jet-black rocks against the azure Caribbean waters.
-
Explore the intricate patterns and textures formed by the solidified lava.
-
Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and appreciate the raw, natural beauty of this geological wonder.
The Black Rocks offer a captivating glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins and provide an opportunity for visitors to marvel at the power of nature.
The Timothy Hill Overlook
The tour then proceeds to the Timothy Hill overlook, where visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the island.
From this elevated vantage point, guests can gaze out over the verdant rolling hills, the shimmering Caribbean Sea, and the distant silhouette of neighboring islands.
The overlook offers the perfect spot to capture stunning photographs and soak in the natural beauty of St. Kitts.
The overlook offers the perfect spot to capture stunning photographs and soak in the natural beauty of St. Kitts.
With interpretive signage providing context, travelers can learn about the island’s history and geography as they enjoy the scenic vista.
This scenic stop is a highlight of the Exotic Island Tour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes of St. Kitts.
Tour Details and Inclusions
The Exotic Island Tour from Basseterre provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour includes:
-
Live commentary from a knowledgeable guide, who shares insights about the island’s history and attractions.
-
Designated pickup and drop-off points, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the tour.
-
Opportunities to explore significant landmarks like the Caribelle Batik factory and the Brimstone Hill National Fortress, as well as natural wonders like the Black Rocks.
Lunch and souvenir photos are available at an additional cost, allowing travelers to customize their experience.
The tour duration is approximately 6 hours, providing ample time to immerse in the island’s cultural and scenic highlights.
Accessibility and Additional Information
How accessible is the Exotic Island Tour?
The tour is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate strollers. Infant seats are available for families traveling with young children.
Service animals are allowed on the tour. The meeting point and pickup location are near public transportation, making it convenient for travelers.
Children under a certain age can join the tour at a discounted rate when accompanied by two paying adults.
Ask Away
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour is a small-group experience, though the maximum group size isn’t explicitly stated. The tour travels in a private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a personalized and intimate sightseeing adventure.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, it does offer a child rate when sharing with 2 paying adults, so it’s possible similar discounts could be available for other groups upon request. It’s best to check with the tour operator.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Requests?
The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests. Travelers should contact the tour operator directly to discuss any specific needs or preferences they have. The operator will try to accommodate them within the tour’s overall structure and logistics.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Extra Stops?
The tour operator offers some flexibility to extend the duration or add extra stops, though this may incur an additional fee. Travelers can discuss their specific needs and preferences with the tour staff to customize the experience.
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour to Guarantee Availability?
The tour operator recommends booking the Exotic Island Tour from Basseterre at least 2-3 days in advance to guarantee availability, as it’s a popular tour with limited daily departures. Early booking ensures you can secure your preferred date and time.
Final Words
The Exotic Island Tour from Basseterre offers a comprehensive exploration of St. Kitts’ highlights. Visitors can enjoy the island’s vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty, with opportunities to witness local artistry, snap picturesque photos, and learn from knowledgeable guides. Whether seeking a cultural experience or simply a scenic getaway, this tour provides a memorable way to discover the charms of this Caribbean destination.
More Kayak & Canoe Tours in St Kitts
More Tour Reviews in St Kitts
Still browsing? Here are more St Kitts experiences we've covered recently
- Round Trip Private Transport Including Airport and Other Location in St Kitts
- Volcano Crater Hike in St Kitts
- St. Kitts Beach Adventure
- Basseterre Plantation Private Half Day Tour
- Nevis Panoramic Drive, Power Catamaran & Beach Experience
- Local Lunch & Half Day Island Tour – Option 2
- Beach Adventure Tour
- Scenic St Kitts & Nevis Airport Roundtrip Transfers
- Romney Manor/Beach Tour
- City Tour, Timothy Hill Lookout and South Friars Beach
- St Kitts Luxury Private Tours
- Pedal Boating Rental Water Sport Activity.