st lucia eco tourism

St. Lucia Sustainability and Ecotourism

Responsible green travel to saint lucia.

Sustainable Eco-Tourism in Saint Lucia

The Saint Lucia National Trust  conserves both the natural and cultural heritage of Saint Lucia.  The Trust is currently responsible for the conservation and management of: Pigeon Island National Landmark; The Maria Islands Nature Reserve; Pointe Sable Environmental Protection Area; Morne Pavillon Nature Reserve; Morne Fortuné; and Anse La Liberte – Which are all open to the public.   Eco South Tours offers a Maria Islands Tour, as well as several tours in the Pointe Sable Environmental Protection Area.

The Soufriere Marine Management Association is an NGO authorized by the Government of St. Lucia to manage the Soufriere Marine Management Area (SMMA) and the Canaries & Anse La Raye Marine Management Area (CAMMA). Mandated to conserve and protect the natural marine environment, the Association also ensures sustainable use and development of the Area.

Tour Operators on the island exemplifying Sustainable Eco-Tourism include:

• Dive Saint Lucia , a scuba diving centre/school offering diving and snorkeling tours, has built a new facility in Rodney Bay that has earned the LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Platinum level Green Building Certification award, for it’s ‘sustainability, water efficiency, energy & atmosphere, materials & resources and indoor environmental quality’.
• Anse Chastanet’s Scuba St Lucia received PADI Green Star Award for commitment to conservation and the aquatic environment

In terms of accommodations, St. Lucia offers the following “environmentally friendly” options:

• Has received Green Globe as well as Organic Plantation Certification
• Utilize water and power conservation practices
• Excavated the land and built all their cottages without machinery as not to disturb Nature
• Harvests much of the land to use in their two restaurants
• Has received Green Globe Certification
• Converted a number of AC units to energy efficient inversion units; Changed their lighting to LEDs; Implemented a recycling program; and Established related education for their team and local community
• Implemented a farm to table menu that reduces food travel
• Has received “Travel Life” recognition for Sustainability in Tourism
• Utilize water management practices including: Use of their own rain/river water reservoir and fresh water treatment station; Utilize water saving shower heads and toilets; Use of their own waste water treatment plant and re-use for irrigation;  Ensure that all cleaning products are non-toxic, non-corrosive, and biodegradable
• Practice good energy saving behavior as well as promote the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle of hotel consumables
• Has received “Responsible Travel” recommendation

Energy Sustainability – Electrical Power Production in Saint Lucia

As of 2015, the island was almost 100% reliant on imported fossil fuels for electricity generation.  Saint Lucia now has a “Renewable Energy Goal” to generate 35% of the country’s energy from renewables by 2020.

Saint Lucia’s energy policy evolution:

• 1994 – The Electricity Supply Act enabled the island’s utility, LUCELEC, to advance development of renewable resources through voluntary financial incentives
• 1999 – The government waived import duties and consumption taxes on renewable energy equipment
• 2001 – Solar water heaters became tax deductible and the government initiated a National Sustainability Energy Plan (NSEP), which aimed for a 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2010
• 2004 – A lighting program reduced the island lighting load
• 2005 – A Sustainable Energy Plan was implemented and a green paper on the National Energy Policy (NEP) was written.
• 2010 – The government established the Saint Lucia NEP outlining provisions to increase the use of renewable energy technologies to offset the amount of fuel the country imports to meet its energy needs.
• 2016 – The Government of Saint Lucia created the National Utilities Regulatory Commission (NURC) to oversee and regulate the electricity system in Saint Lucia. The Government also developed the National Energy Transition Strategy (NETS) to pave the road for a sustainable, reliable, cost-effective, and equitable electricity sector using the island’s local resources. This process, independent of any particular technology, yielded a detailed 20-year strategy as well as a suite of optimal near-term projects.
• 2018 – NETS was formally approved and adopted

The NETS findings indicate that a portfolio of utility-owned/scaled energy sources offers the best economics for Saint Lucia, and include:

• Distributed Solar with Energy Storage
• Wind with Energy Storage
• Diesel (for flexibility)
• Geothermal resources

This would be combined with an energy efficiency program targeting lighting, refrigeration, air-conditioning, and water heating.  As of the spring of 2018, the following initiatives have been completed or are underway:

• Starting in the fall of 2017, LUCELEC has constructed Saint Lucia’s first utility-scale solar farm near the Hewanorra International Airport in the south of the island.  The solar farm was energized in April 2018, providing 3MW of clean electricity, enough to power approximately 3,500 homes.
• Thanks to the Government of Italy (Ministry for Environment, Land and Sea), a solar carport with electric vehicle charging infrastructure is being built in 2018 at the St. Lucia Ministry of infrastructure in Castries
• As of March 2018, 25kWp Solar PV ‘grid connected’ systems have been installed at the Gros-Islet Secondary School and the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries
• A project demonstrating the technical and economic feasibility of commercial scale Solar PV on public buildings is currently being planned – A 200kWp system at the Owen King EU Hospital in Castries is being built in 2018 to contribute knowledge and experience that will help drive market evolution
• As part of the ‘Japan Caribbean Climate Change Partnership’ Green Architecture Promotion Pilot (GAPP) a project to promote the use of climate adaptation techniques, consistent with Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED), is currently being developed.  The project will be implemented at three schools across the island and includes a total of 38kW renewable energy, as well as approximately 6000 gallons of installed rain water harvesting systems; along with green-houses and irrigation systems at each school.
• The Government of Saint Lucia is also actively pursuing geothermal resource development. A number of studies have been conducted and with assistance from the Government of New Zealand and other sources of grant funding, suitable areas for potential geothermal exploration drilling have been determined.  The Government of Saint Lucia through consultancies have completed the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment as well as the pre-feasibility study. The next phase will include exploratory drilling.

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Saint Lucia Eco Lodges

Caribbean – Ecotourism in Saint Lucia

To visit one of our Saint Lucia Eco Lodges please go here: Saint Lucia Eco Lodges . Click on the links below to go directly to each listing. Balenbouche Estate Calabash Mountain Villa Fond Doux Resort & Plantation

Saint Lucia is slowly starting to promote eco-tourism. There are many natural attractions including the Pitons, which are two volcanic mountain peaks, and there are waterfalls and hot springs nearby. Waterfalls are another attraction, in both Soufriere and on the Atlantic side, where you can visit Dennery Falls, which has a fifty five foot drop. There are eight waterfalls on St. Lucia. Pigeon Island National Landmark is another point of interest as it has a rich history including a former British Garrison. It is now an historical and nature park. Also, Maria Islands serve as a nesting ground for migratory birds from Africa.

In the spring on the northeast coast, leatherback turtles lay eggs and spawn the next generation. The Jacquot parrot was near extinction but because of programs in St. Lucia is now making a comeback. The government of St. Lucia made this parrot the national bird so that it is an act of treason to harm one and brings a big fine and jail time. The Soufriere Marine Management Association, an NGO is now dedicated to preserving the coral reefs.

Below is an image of one of our Saint Lucia Eco Lodges.

To learn more about Saint Lucia visit Wikipedia .

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Going Local on the Island of St. Lucia

Creole cooking classes, boisterous street parties, a tour of a cacao plantation and visits with islanders preserving local traditions: A traveler explores a more intimate St. Lucia.

By Shayla Martin

“Here, smell this,” said Hans Mathurin, 29, as he pulled off the road, rolled down his window and snatched a leaf off a bush. After a skull-rattling ride along treacherous, bumpy roads en route to a Creole cooking class, I wasn’t quite in the mood to smell, much less eat, anything, but I took the crushed leaf and inhaled.

It was a bay leaf — a common ingredient in both St. Lucian Creole cuisine and, of course, many American dishes — but this bay leaf, with its intensely herbal, slightly sweet fragrance, was unlike any I had ever encountered.

“Our flavors are everywhere here,” Mr. Mathurin said, and indeed, everywhere I went I saw the evidence — coconut trees, mangos, plantains, sugar apples, markets overflowing with produce. Add to this St. Lucia’s remarkable natural beauty — pristine beaches, tropical forests and the dramatic twin Piton mountains — and Eden seemed like the perfect metaphor for St. Lucia.

A tourism shift

St. Lucia usually draws what locals call the “sea, sand and sun” tourist: those looking for not much more than a gorgeous beach from which to admire the breathtaking scenery.

For decades, the island’s culture was just an afterthought. An all-inclusive resort might ask local dancers and musicians to perform or invite artisans to sell their crafts or prepare a “Creole Cuisine” night, but the focus was on exposing the guest to a somewhat diluted version of St. Lucian culture instead of inviting visitors to get out and experience the community firsthand.

It was a trend that local business owners, with mounting cynicism, noticed. A holistic approach to tourism that combines both the island’s environmental wonders and Creole culture seemed to be the only solution, and these days, a new tourism minister is leading the charge.

Ernest Hilaire, 54, appointed minister for tourism, investment, creative industries, culture and information in August 2021, thinks that the tourism industry has to be redesigned with the St. Lucian people at the center.

“We believe more St Lucians should participate in the industry and own it,” Dr. Hilaire said. “The notion that so much of our tourism industry is not actually owned by locals but by foreign interests is not very encouraging for us.”

The focus under his leadership is community tourism: authentic local experiences that showcase the attractions, cuisine, traditional values and heritage of the St. Lucian people. Instead of a tourist purchasing a handwoven basket at the market or on the beach, the government will financially support local artisans through loans and grants to open a workshop where guests can see how the basket is made and maybe even learn to make their own.

“People are no longer satisfied to travel thousands of miles and pay thousands of dollars to come and just stay in a resort with a limited engagement of the outside,” Dr. Hilaire said.

More ideas to escape the cold:

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Going Local on the Island of St. Lucia : Creole cooking classes, boisterous street parties, a tour of a cacao plantation and visits with islanders preserving local traditions.

How Green is Your Cruise? : As cruise companies head into their busiest season, they say they have ambitious plans to curb greenhouse emissions and find cleaner sources of fuel.

I knew I wanted to have as much of a St. Lucian-owned-and-operated experience as possible. Though I’ve visited many other Caribbean nations, St. Lucia, known for its luxury resorts, was never on my list. It was too expensive, I thought, and frankly not a destination that seemed to market itself to African American visitors. As a traveler who likes to explore the various cultures of the African diaspora, I thought that St. Lucia probably wasn’t a good fit for a visitor like myself.

I could not have been more wrong.

An immersion course in cacao

I visited in October during Creole Heritage Month, when St. Lucia’s melting pot of Arawak, Carib, African, French and Indian-influenced culture is on full display. Street festivals, concerts, “bamboo bursting” — in which a length of bamboo is transformed into an air cannon — traditional madras-print ensembles and menus featuring the national dish of green figs and saltfish are just a few of the highlights. It all culminates in Jounen Kwéyòl Day, with celebrations in communities large and small, where you’re more likely to hear the widely spoken Kwéyòl language, also known as Patwa, instead of English. But you don’t have to go in October to experience these things. Most of them are there for the taking, year round.

Opting for a locally owned property, I stayed at Fond Doux Eco Resort , near the town of Soufrière. Situated on a 250-year-old cocoa plantation, the 16-cottage resort was acquired in 1980 by Lyton and Eroline Lamontagne. The estate, which grows organic cacao, is deep in the heart of a mostly undisturbed forest. You may spot the occasional rooster strolling by like he owns the place and tree frogs provide a soundtrack each night (soothing, perhaps, but loud; you may want to pack ear plugs).

On the first day at Fond Doux, I made my way from my cottage, descending stone stairs carved into the mountain, and found my Chocolate Heritage Tour guides, Clinton Jean, 29, and Whitney Haynes, 17, waiting for me. Held daily, the two-hour tour is available to both on- and off-property guests. We strolled to a cocoa tree, where Clinton snagged a ripe pod and broke it open. Inside were the cocoa beans: nodules wrapped in a sweet, slimy white pulp known as mucilage. We plucked out the beans (which islanders called “jungle M&Ms”) and sucked the citrusy mucilage, tossing the bitter bean.

We then looked at the boxes where cocoa beans are covered with banana leaves for two weeks to ferment, then placed into 19th-century trays to dry in the sun. After drying, the beans are placed in an enormous cauldron at the center of the property for the “cocoa-rina” dance, where an estate worker stomps on the beans for 30 minutes to remove blemishes and aid in shelling. After drying again for another two weeks, the beans are handed over to Cornelia Judy Felix, the senior chocolatier, to be made into delicious chocolate bars.

After grinding the roasted beans and mixing the dark powder with melted cocoa butter, we hand-whipped the liquid chocolate to help it cool. Ms. Felix promptly took over with a “you did your best” when my upper body strength failed, then we poured the chocolate into molds and placed them in the freezer. I left with a bar of dark chocolate I mostly made myself.

Dinner that night was at Orlando’s Restaurant & Bar in Soufrière. London-born and of Jamaican and Barbadian descent, the chef Orlando Satchell has lived in St. Lucia for 23 years and is the former executive chef at Dasheene restaurant, at the luxurious Ladera Resort . Celebrating 10 years in business in December, Orlando’s Restaurant is in the chef’s home, where he offers intricately presented Caribbean cuisine in a five-course, $65 prix-fixe menu with dishes like carrot, pumpkin and green banana soup, and spinach risotto with grilled mahi mahi and mango salsa.

“I want to elevate the way people see Caribbean cooking,” Mr. Satchell said. “My restaurant also gets visitors into the community of Soufrière to have a true Caribbean experience. When they come here, they’re coming into someone’s home, and though they may enter as strangers, they will leave as friends.”

‘Culture is not an ornament on a shelf’

After time spent in the rural southern part of the island, I was excited to experience the more densely populated north. I stopped by Cacao Saint Lucie , another local, small-batch chocolatier, for sustenance. Just outside the fishing village of Canaries, the team offers the bean-to-bar experience alongside more advanced classes like chocolate sensory tasting and truffle-making classes. Stocked up with chocolate chip cookies, whimsically decorated truffles and nut clusters, I navigated the winding, hilly drive for my stay at the locally owned Sol Sanctum Wellness Hotel in Rodney Bay. Opened in January, the eight-room property has a 1,200-square-foot studio that hosts yoga, meditation, strength training and tai chi classes taught by local instructors, including Marise Skeete, a co-owner of the hotel. Guest rooms come with yoga mats and daily vegetarian breakfast, but daily group fitness classes require an extra fee.

Though I wanted to spend all day at nearby Reduit Beach, the main reason for my trip north was to visit the Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (F.R.C.) in Castries, the capital of St. Lucia. In 1973, Patrick Anthony (known as Paba) helped lead a movement aimed at preserving Creole heritage.

By 1985, just six years after St. Lucian independence from Britain, the movement became a nongovernmental organization. In a beautifully preserved 19th-century building, the official home of the F.R.C. was a reservoir for the extensive research done by Mr. Anthony, community volunteers and cultural activists. They amassed an extensive library of audio, visual and written histories of St. Lucian folk customs, Indigenous cultural practices, artifacts and documentation of the Creole language. Sadly, much of this was lost in a fire in 2018.

I met the new executive director, Rhyesa Joseph, 29, at the temporary location of the F.R.C., a pale yellow building that formerly housed Monroe College at Barnard Hill. Ms. Joseph has the mammoth task of rebuilding both the center’s physical space and cultural collection. She sees tourism as a potential vehicle to fuel its mission to promote the Creole identity and empower communities, but wants to see a stronger connection between St. Lucian culture and the development of the island.

“We cannot leave culture out of anything in terms of education, spirituality and political development,” she said. “Culture is not an ornament on a shelf that we put on and take off when we want to. As an institution, we want to make sure that St. Lucians remember that culture is who we are. It is our way of life and it must be celebrated and preserved.”

New initiatives on the horizon

There may be a long road ahead to create the blueprint for community-based tourism, but a slew of new initiatives are paving the way. This summer saw the launch of Collection de Pépites , an accommodations database of nearly 200 villas, bed-and-breakfasts, boutique hotels and inns with 35 rooms or fewer, designed to draw travelers away from massive all-inclusive resorts and toward more intimate properties across the island.

For imbibers there’s the Kabawé Krawl , a trail of traditional bars around the island that offer not only the opportunity to sip Bounty Rum and Piton Beer, but also to shoot the breeze with St. Lucians discussing the latest football match, or to play a game of dominoes. Similar to pubs in London, a kabawé is the Creole name for a local rum shop or watering hole that’s often the center of social activity.

While many kabawés are accessible by foot, operators like Serenity Vacations & Tours offer guided excursions so you can visit multiple kabawés without worrying about your blood alcohol level. They also offer trips to Gros Islet for the well-known Friday night Gros Islet Street Party where pop-up bars and barbecues fill the streets as St. Lucians serve up grilled fish, lobster and cocktails while calypso and soca play in the background.

I experienced St. Lucian hospitality firsthand when I booked a Creole cooking class with Serenity. The owner, John Mathurin, sent his son, Hans Mathurin, to pick me up for a class that was to be held at their family home and hosted by John’s wife, Carol. After introducing me to that fragrant bay leaf, Hans and I pulled up to a stunning home perched high on a mountain overlooking Gros Islet and the sea. A full kitchen awaited, filled with produce they had grown in their own yard: coconut, sweet peppers, plantains, bay leaves, breadfruit, soursop and more.

Perpetua Mathurin-Busby, a.k.a. Chef Maxx, guided me through marinating fresh red snapper with garlic and salt before roasting it directly over hot coals, and chopping peppers, onions and herbs for stewed chicken with brown sugar. We roasted plantains over coals, made a flavorful fish broth with the snapper heads, and steamed breadfruit, dasheen (a starchy root vegetable), cassava and green bananas.

By the time we sat down to eat, Chef Maxx had educated me on the multinational influences in St. Lucian Creole cooking, and we were all laughing about our favorite culinary memories.

I could have easily been in a kitchen with my own aunts and cousins, and the experience forever cemented a shared moment I won’t soon forget.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

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Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

THE 5 BEST St. Lucia Eco Tours

Eco tours in st. lucia.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Rainforest Adventures
• Sulphur Springs
• Morne Fortune
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. St. Lucia Zip line, Aerial Tram and Hiking tour Ultimate 3

2. St. Lucia Aerial Tram Tour at Rainforest Adventures

3. Adrena-Line Zipline Canopy Tour at Rainforest Adventures St. Lucia

4. Best of Both Worlds Land and Sea Adventure

5. St Lucia Jacquot Trail Hike at Rainforest Adventures

6. St Kitts Half-Day Rainforest Tour

7. St Lucia Sunday's Tour

8. St. Lucia Tet Paul Nature Trail Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Discovery of dolphins on the Caribbean coast

North Island Tour And Martinique Best Secret

Sea Turtles and snorkeling

Discovery day 4x4 ride - Northern Circuit of Martinique

Dolphin's Watching Martinique

Day Trip by Boat from Le Robert

Habitation Clement - entrance ticket

Sailing Discovery Day Tour in Martinique

La Soufriere Volcano Hike with Topdawg Taxi and Tours

Captainmanou water excursions

excursions and visits everywhere in Martinique

Dark View Falls Tour with Trubb Taxi Tours SVG

Montreal Gardens Tour with Trubb Taxi Tours

5 Hour Tour at Dark View Falls and Pirates of the Caribbean Set

Half Day Tour Anywhere in Martinique

La Caravelle Hike in Martinique

Savane des Petrifications Hike

Dark View falls , Wallilabou , Fort Charlotte, Kingstown from IV Tours

Vermont Nature Trail with Topdawg Taxi and Tours

V.I.P Green escape 1- Botanical Garden

1/2 Day Panoramic Tour

Half day Private tour South Martinique (Coral beds & Turtles)

What travellers are saying.

• Best of Both Worlds Land and Sea Adventure
• St Lucia Sunday's Tour
• St Lucia Jacquot Trail Hike at Rainforest Adventures
• St Kitts Half-Day Rainforest Tour
• St. Lucia Tet Paul Nature Trail Tour
• FRAM Tours St. Lucia
• Safi Tours Nature Hike and Camp Site
• Plus Ventures Slu
• Hackshaw's Boat Charters
• 7th Heaven Choiseul
• Eco Adventures (St. Lucia Tours & Taxi)
• Tropic Trails Island Adventures
• Exciting Tours St. Lucia

THE 5 BEST St. Lucia Eco Tours

Eco tours in st. lucia.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Rainforest Adventures
• Sulphur Springs
• Morne Fortune
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. St. Lucia Zip line, Aerial Tram and Hiking tour Ultimate 3

2. St. Lucia Aerial Tram Tour at Rainforest Adventures

3. Adrena-Line Zipline Canopy Tour at Rainforest Adventures St. Lucia

4. Best of Both Worlds Land and Sea Adventure

5. St Lucia Jacquot Trail Hike at Rainforest Adventures

6. St Kitts Half-Day Rainforest Tour

7. St Lucia Sunday's Tour

8. St. Lucia Tet Paul Nature Trail Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Discovery of dolphins on the Caribbean coast

North Island Tour And Martinique Best Secret

Sea Turtles and snorkeling

Discovery day 4x4 ride - Northern Circuit of Martinique

Dolphin's Watching Martinique

Day Trip by Boat from Le Robert

Habitation Clement - entrance ticket

Sailing Discovery Day Tour in Martinique

La Soufriere Volcano Hike with Topdawg Taxi and Tours

Captainmanou water excursions

excursions and visits everywhere in Martinique

Dark View Falls Tour with Trubb Taxi Tours SVG

Montreal Gardens Tour with Trubb Taxi Tours

5 Hour Tour at Dark View Falls and Pirates of the Caribbean Set

Half Day Tour Anywhere in Martinique

La Caravelle Hike in Martinique

Savane des Petrifications Hike

Dark View falls , Wallilabou , Fort Charlotte, Kingstown from IV Tours

Vermont Nature Trail with Topdawg Taxi and Tours

V.I.P Green escape 1- Botanical Garden

1/2 Day Panoramic Tour

Half day Private tour South Martinique (Coral beds & Turtles)

What travellers are saying.

• Best of Both Worlds Land and Sea Adventure
• St Lucia Sunday's Tour
• St Lucia Jacquot Trail Hike at Rainforest Adventures
• St Kitts Half-Day Rainforest Tour
• St. Lucia Tet Paul Nature Trail Tour
• FRAM Tours St. Lucia
• Safi Tours Nature Hike and Camp Site
• Plus Ventures Slu
• Hackshaw's Boat Charters
• 7th Heaven Choiseul
• Eco Adventures (St. Lucia Tours & Taxi)
• Tropic Trails Island Adventures
• Exciting Tours St. Lucia

SEVENSEAS Media

Ocean conservation is human conservation.

A Guide to Enjoying a Sustainable Trip to St. Lucia

Contributed by helen atkinson.

St Lucia is a small island nation in the Caribbean Sea known for its stunning natural beauty and unique culture. The island boasts miles of pristine beaches, lush rainforests and breathtaking mountain views, making it a popular destination among tourists. However, with an increasing number of visitors arriving in St Lucia each year, there is a growing concern about the impact of tourism on the island’s delicate ecosystem.

The increased demand for resources, energy and transportation is feared to be putting more pressure on the island’s infrastructure than it can handle. This is a global issue and has led to an interest in promoting sustainable tourism – a practice that seeks to minimise the negative impacts of tourism while still growing the country’s economy.

In this article, we explore how you can enjoy a sustainable trip and have a positive impact when visiting St Lucia.

Choosing eco-friendly accommodation

The island of St Lucia has a wide range of accommodation options available, and many of them are now becoming more environmentally friendly. By implementing sustainable practices such as using renewable energy, reducing waste and ethically sourcing products, these hotels and resorts make a great option for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Your accommodation is often where you spend a significant amount of your time during a holiday, so choosing one that is eco-conscious can have a bigger impact than you’d think. Even something as simple as reusing towels for a couple of days, rather than having them washed after only one use, can greatly reduce the water and energy consumed during your stay.

Respect marine ecosystems

St Lucia is home to some incredible beaches with oceans filled with diverse marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles and brightly coloured fish. Many tourists flock to the coasts to experience these close-up, but it’s important to ensure that nothing is being disturbed as a result.

Marine ecosystems are fragile and easily damaged by human activities, so it’s essential to follow sustainable practices. For example, avoid touching coral reefs and marine life , and make sure not to feed them as it can disrupt their natural behaviour. It’s also important to pick up after yourself and dispose of any litter properly, as waste left behind can be harmful to marine life and further pollute our oceans.

Support local communities

St Lucia has a rich history and culture , and supporting the local communities residing on this small island nation is key to practising sustainable tourism. This natural gem has many local markets and shops all over the island, offering handmade art, crafts and souvenirs. Make sure to choose wisely when you head out shopping, as supporting these small businesses can be the difference between a culturally rich town and corporations consuming the streets.

This unique Caribbean island is a beautiful place to enjoy a trip at any time of year , and it can easily be done without having a negative impact on the surroundings. Remember sustainability is not just about protecting the environment, but also the small local communities and cultural heritage that make St Lucia so special.

About The Author

Helen Atkinson is a travel advisor specialising in sustainable tourism. She helps travellers find more eco-friendly options for trips all over the world, promoting small swaps wherever possible. In her free time, she enjoys spending time in nature exploring local forests and trails.

This piece was prepared online by  Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media

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THE 5 BEST St. Lucia Eco Tours

Eco tours in st. lucia.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Rainforest Adventures
• Sulphur Springs
• Morne Fortune
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. St. Lucia Zip line, Aerial Tram and Hiking tour Ultimate 3

2. St. Lucia Aerial Tram Tour at Rainforest Adventures

3. Adrena-Line Zipline Canopy Tour at Rainforest Adventures St. Lucia

4. Best of Both Worlds Land and Sea Adventure

5. St Lucia Jacquot Trail Hike at Rainforest Adventures

6. St Kitts Half-Day Rainforest Tour

7. St Lucia Sunday's Tour

8. St. Lucia Tet Paul Nature Trail Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Discovery of dolphins on the Caribbean coast

North Island Tour And Martinique Best Secret

Sea Turtles and snorkeling

Discovery day 4x4 ride - Northern Circuit of Martinique

Dolphin's Watching Martinique

Day Trip by Boat from Le Robert

Habitation Clement - entrance ticket

Sailing Discovery Day Tour in Martinique

La Soufriere Volcano Hike with Topdawg Taxi and Tours

Captainmanou water excursions

excursions and visits everywhere in Martinique

Dark View Falls Tour with Trubb Taxi Tours SVG

Montreal Gardens Tour with Trubb Taxi Tours

5 Hour Tour at Dark View Falls and Pirates of the Caribbean Set

Half Day Tour Anywhere in Martinique

La Caravelle Hike in Martinique

Savane des Petrifications Hike

Dark View falls , Wallilabou , Fort Charlotte, Kingstown from IV Tours

Vermont Nature Trail with Topdawg Taxi and Tours

V.I.P Green escape 1- Botanical Garden

1/2 Day Panoramic Tour

Half day Private tour South Martinique (Coral beds & Turtles)

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• Book your Eco-Hotel

The 10 Most Sustainable Hotels In St Lucia

A Sustainability Ranking in partnership with niood

You’re planning a trip to St Lucia and you’re trying to be as ethical and sustainable as possible? ETIC Hotels lists you the 8 most sustainable hotels in the St Lucia:

1. Fond Doux Soufrière, Saint Lucia

From $200 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Fond Doux sustainable?

Power and Water Conservation

Water in the cottages is heated through solar panels to conserve power. Other power and water conservation efforts include energy efficient lights, low flow toilets, and the option to reuse linens and towels.

Locally Owned and Operated

Owners Eroline and Lyton Lamontagne are from Saint Lucia and run the plantation themselves. They work with local communities to train and hire St. Lucians at Fond Doux with an emphasis on developing individual skills and gifts.

Supporting Local Industry

As part of our sustainable practices we fill our gift shop with goods from local suppliers. Similarly, we ensure the tour operators that we refer our guests to use local suppliers and emphasize St. Lucian culture.

2. Bay Gardens Beach Resort Rodney Bay, St Lucia

From $140 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Bay Gardens Beach Resort sustainable?

Bay Gardens Resorts remains committed to supporting environmental protection and ensuring a greener planet throughout our operations, thus improving our social, environmental and economic sustainability.

Whether it is in the forefront or behind the scenes, our decisions and choices are driven by sustainable tourism and our three Green Globe certified properties are testaments to our efforts. With this certification, Bay Gardens is equipped with a framework to conduct a comprehensive assessment of our environmental sustainability performance, allowing the company to monitor improvements and continue to maintain its certification. After being Green Globe certified for five consecutive years, our company became the first and only on island to be awarded Green Globe’s Gold Member status.

How we play our part:

• Phasing out the use of plastic in favor of biodegradable vessels and utensils made from wood, paper, compostable plastic and sugar cane bagasse.
• Ending the use of all Expanded Polystyrene (Styrofoam) products on all our properties.
• Installing GEM Link occupancy sensors in its guestrooms, leading to a 20 percent energy use reduction per occupied room.
• Converting all our air conditioning units to energy efficient inverter units.
• Implementing linen reuse and recycle programs to reduce the amount of water utilized per occupied room.
• Changing all lighting energy efficient LEDs across our properties.
• Participating in the SLHTA’s Virtual Agricultural Clearing House (VACH) which helps to foster better linkages between hotels and local farmers.
• Implementing a farm to table approach when designing our menus in support of local farmers and to reduce our food miles.

3. Ladera Resort Soufrière, Saint Lucia

From $900 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Ladera Resort sustainable?

​You cannot miss the furniture, panel, and sculpture creations here at Ladera. These “living works of art” are the work of our three master craftsmen, Boniface, Eustace, and Eustachius. They use tropical wood, tiles, and stones found on St. Lucia to create them at our onsite carpentry shop. Eustace, our Property & Maintenance Manager and champion of sustainability, has been here at Ladera for over 30 years and we can say that he built the resort with his bare hands! Eustachius designed most of the furniture, including the beds, making them rare treasures for our guests to enjoy and a showcase for our eco-friendly commitment.​

Conserving water and energy are part of everyday practice here at Ladera. Our rain harvesting program captures and stores rainwater used for our landscape irrigation system. We use solar water heaters for the hot water in the suites and kitchen and have replaced bulbs with LED lights. We also observe the global “Earth Hour” every March by turning off all non-essential lights at the resort for one hour. You can help us with this by being aware of your energy and water usage while staying in one of our luxury suites.

4. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort Gros Islet, Saint Lucia

From $320 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort sustainable?

Tucked away on a lush hillside along the cobalt Caribbean Sea, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is unlike any destination you’ve witnessed. Bringing to mind the beauty and charm of a picturesque Mediterranean village, our stunning island retreat beckons with secluded villas, luxury amenities, and friendly Lucian hospitality.

5. Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat Soufrière, Saint Lucia

From $640 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat sustainable?

Rabot Hotel is a spellbinding getaway comprising 14 private eco-lodges and an open-air restaurant, bar and spa. Set in the lush nature of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a place where the sounds of nature replace the noise of day-to-day life, stimulating and inspiring relaxation like no other place on earth overlooking the islands iconic Pitons. The hotel reconnects guests with nature by way of open-air architecture and sustainable earthy materials – it is our Saint Lucian idyll.

6. Jade Mountain Resort Soufrière, Saint Lucia

What makes Jade Mountain Resort sustainable?

Electricity at Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain

• Only natural lighting is used during the day
• The resort’s external and grounds illumination uses all yellow lighting which does not interfere with the local environment or wild animal behavior. Yellow lighting is also approved for use in areas where turtles hatch and will not disorientate turtle hatchlings.
• With the exception of 12 air conditioned units the balance of our accommodations are built to take advantage of natural air flow making air conditioning not necessary.
• Pumping for waste water is limited to a single stage primary lift pump to start the process; the balance of the treatment is done with gravity flow systems eliminating the need for additional power consumption.
• Low flush toilets are installed throughout the two resorts with 1.6 gallons per flush being used on average
• All shower heads are low flow 2.5 GPM units further reducing our water usage footprint
• Jade Mountain pool water is vacuumed in a closed system returning the clean filtered water back to the pool’s environment. The Jade Mountain swimming pool water quality is continuously monitored, and poolwater is treated with “Ozoneators” which is a chlorine-free process.

Transportation

• Fish and farm produce are sourced within the community or from our own farm minimizing fuel usage for transportation and delivery
• Tour routes minimize driving distances
• Vehicles regularly serviced and maintained
• Fuel-efficient vehicles are purchased, rented or leased

7. Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort West Indies Soufrière, Saint Lucia

From $700 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Sugar Beach Viceroy Resort sustainable?

Energy Savings – All office lights turned off after hours. – Conventional AC units have been converted to inverter units. – Installation of an automated system to control AC operation. – Led lights throughout the property. – Low voltage 12v for outside lighting. – Optional solar system to supply laundry facility. – Outside lighting on photocell.

Water Conservation – Desalination plant. – Greywater line for irrigation.

Additional Green Initiatives – Converting thatch roofs to artificial material. – Greenhouse that supplies the kitchen with in-house organic vegetables.

8. Anse Chastanet Soufrière, Saint Lucia

From $450 per night etic hotels green score: 9.5/10.

What makes Anse Chastanet sustainable?

ETIC Hotels

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12 amazing things to do in st. lucia | ecotourism and sustainable travel.

St. Lucia is slowly starting to promote ecotourism. There are many natural attractions like the Pitons, waterfalls, and national parks for eco travelers to enjoy.

I traveled here with my friend Kim, a St. Lucian native who gave me the most amazing tour of her country. Here’s our sustainable guide to making the most of your visit– what to eat, what drinks to try, and what attractions to enjoy.

1) CLIMB THE PITONS

The Pitons are two giant volcanic plugs located on the southwestern coast of St. Lucia near Soufrière. These majestic twin peaks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most photographed landmark on the entire island. Not only can you take pictures of them from afar, you can hike to their summits for breathtaking views of the rest of the island. The hikes are pretty strenuous in the tropical heat, but Gros Piton has the easier climb of the two and requires a tour guide. Petit Piton has better views, but the climb is significantly more challenging. There are no tour services or welcome center for Petit Piton, so you will need to seek a local who can guide you to the top.

Phone: 758-450-2231; 758-450–2078

Cost: Tour Guides – $45

2) SULPHUR SPRINGS DRIVE-IN VOLCANO

Often referred to as the “world’s only drive-in volcano,” this major tourist attraction has a road that runs straight up to and through the crater of the volcano. Be sure to prepare your nostrils for the smell of rotten eggs though, as this volcano emits more gas than it does lava.

3) SULPHUR SPRINGS MUD BATH

After checking out the volcano, make your way over to the hot springs for a muddy bathing session. While the term “mud bath” may seem like quite the contradiction, it’s just one of those things that you have to do when you visit St. Lucia. The bathing pools are reputed to have therapeutic properties – so while your nose may not appreciate the smell, your skin will certainly love the healing volcanic minerals (just don’t forget to bring a towel like I did).

4) CARNIVAL

5) CATAMARAN SAILING

Ah, what a relaxing way to see the St. Lucian coastline. I chose a catamaran tour that enticed me with the words “rum punch included” in its description. Yep – that’s all I needed to read and I was sold. It definitely made the tour even more interesting! If you don’t get a chance to climb the Pitons, make sure you at least schedule some time to do a catamaran tour that will sail past them. It’s a view you can’t leave St. Lucia without seeing.

6) SAINT LUCIA JAZZ & ARTS FESTIVAL

Are you a music aficionado who loves attending a good festival? This annual internationally known event is perfect for you. It gathers local artists and musicians from all around the world and features a variety of music including jazz, R&B and Calypso. Get all the information you need about this music fest here .

7) SCUBA DIVING

Explore the ecologically rich waters of St. Lucia with Scuba St. Lucia. They received a PADI Green Star Award for their commitment to conservation and the aquatic environment.

8) GROS ISLET STREET PARTY

One thing that stands out about this tiny, but charming Caribbean island is the people. St. Lucians are so warm and welcoming and love tourists! One fun way to socialize with the locals is to attend one of the Friday night Gros Islet street parties, known as “The Jump-Up.” Dance the night away to blaring Caribbean music, all while indulging in delicious local food and beverages – the bars and street vendors stay open pretty late that night.

Address: Dauphin St., off the Castries-Gros Islet Hwy., Gros Islet

9) EAT GREEN FIGS (NO SALTFISH)

Eat like a local! St. Lucia’s national dish, green figs and saltfish, is mainly comprised of salted fish and green bananas, which are peeled and sautéed with onions, garlic, celery, and peppers – ask for a vegan friendly version without the saltfish. St. Lucia offers a variety of food options to satisfy any palate. Fresh fruits and locally-grown seasonings are sold everywhere. Follow up your meals with some deliciously fruity island desserts. According to Kim, “the chefs have managed to incorporate every single fruit you can imagine from the island into the desserts.” Yum.

10) DRINK RUM PUNCH AND PITON BEER

What can you wash your tasty Caribbean meals down with? Anything with rum in it! Kim explains that for the most part, all the touristy drinks sold in St. Lucia “are made with rum as the base.” If you want to take a local St. Lucian liquor home with you, she suggests buying a bottle of Bounty Rum , which is considered the national rum of St. Lucia. For beer lovers, Piton Beer is a must. Named after the Piton Mountains mentioned earlier, this local beer is cool, light, and refreshing with a floral aroma. This is a favorite among tourists, while Heineken is preferred by the locals.

11) RODNEY BAY

This bay is located along the northwestern coast of the island, about 15 minutes north of Castries. It is one of the more touristy areas of St. Lucia according to Kim, but you can find different kinds of food, parties, and music to enjoy on this side of the country.

12) STAY AT AN ECO LODGE

To visit one of Saint Lucia’s Eco Lodges, you can go here: Saint Lucia Eco Lodges .

Or click on the links below to go directly to each listing. Balenbouche Estate Calabash Mountain Villa Fond Doux Resort & Plantation

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Getting Creative with Sustainable Tourism in St Lucia

Saint lucia is making significant strides in developing innovative schemes to support sustainable tourism in a creative way.

Holidaymakers are keener than ever before to know that their trip benefits the people and places they visit. ABTA’s most recent research revealed that since the pandemic, there is now a greater awareness of the environmental and local impact of tourism.

Whilst Saint Lucia makes significant strides in reducing energy consumption, managing waste and improving conservation there are also some innovative schemes taking place that support sustainable tourism in a creative way.

Here are nine highlights:

A Museum for Bananas

A popular resort in the north, East Winds is home to the island’s first ‘living banana museum’. Producing fruit from up to 10 different varieties – in yellow, red and green. The museum was planted as part of East Winds’ efforts to help preserve varieties of bananas that are becoming rare either because they are difficult to grow or are difficult to transport and so only have a small local market.

Chocolate Compost

Rabot Hotel (from Hotel Chocolat ) sits within a wonderfully chaotic jumble of vines, trees, and plants competing with each other for sunlight. At this working cocoa farm, you’ll spot organic compost heaps of cocoa pod husks which break down into world-class compost. The hotel uses every part of this super-crop at the Rabot Hotel and Estate – the inner cacao beans, the shells encasing them, the nibs, the lychee-like pulp inside and the outer husks for compost.

Cooking with Mama

The hotels in Saint Lucia use local produce for their cuisine. A standout example can be found at Cap Maison , where guests can learn how to cook authentic St Lucian Creole dishes alongside Mama Madeline, mother of one of the hotel chefs. Madeline invites guests to her home to enjoy a traditional creole menu filled with colour and history and shares the stories of what makes Saint Lucia the ‘Helen of the West’. With an abundance of produce in her own back garden, there is lots of fresh grown fruits and vegetables and the occasional land crab.

Saving Architectural Heritage

The Fond Doux Plantation and Resort has won many awards for its eco-sustainable business model through practises such as preserving local buildings as holiday accommodation. Most recently, the Angelina Villa was re-modelled into a spacious Deluxe Two Bedroom Villa with a second bedroom to the bottom floor. This house originally stood on Waterworks Road in Castries where it had been neglected for many years and was slated for demolition. It was purchased by owners of Fond Doux, the Lamontagne family, dismantled and trucked to Fond Doux, rebuilt and restored by artisans who specialise in old building techniques.

Generating a Buzz

On the west coast of the island is resort and spa Ti-Kaye , famous for its diving. It has recently added bee hives to its sustainability drive and has already seen the difference in pumpkin production since their introduction. The goal is to establish 12 hives to make the resort honey self-sufficient. You’ll find these on property and they are looked after by Lester, who also runs the dive shop.

School Breakfast Clubs

Green-globe certified Bay Gardens Resorts runs a thriving breakfast club for local school children, amongst many of its community initiatives supported by guest stays. Two local schools benefit from the feeding programme for students with food from the resorts. This initiative seeks to assist families by alleviating the burden of parents and guardians as well as reducing absenteeism.

Diving to Preserve Coral

This new package has been created for divers with an interest in marine conservation who want to get involved in coral restoration. Run over three days it includes dive visits to existing coral mitigation sites, hands on experience of maintaining a coral nursery and out-planting nursery reared corals. Created with the Perry Institute, the course is educational, engaging and as interactive as possible. In addition to each package, a Lionfish Experience is also available, which includes the diving, hunting, cleaning, and cooking of lionfish, an invasive species.

Hotel with a Farm

Anse Chastanet Resort has its very own organic farm. Guests are able to visit Emerald Farm located on the estate in the Soufriere hills, approximately 20 minutes from the hotel. Since 2007, Emerald Estate has been growing organic produce – from vegetables, micro greens, salads to fruits, spices, nuts and herbs- for the resort kitchens, under the supervision of consulting chef Allen Susser, taking the farm to table concept to a completely new level.

Village Tourism – the Next Chapter

Saint Lucia’s Village Tourism Programme (VTP), is now three years established and aims to encourage visitors to explore the island and to directly benefit the village communities. To date the programme’s successes include two new beach parks for visitors and locals to enjoy. Despite the huge challenges of the pandemic, the programme continues for 2021 with plans for the west coast fishing village Anse La Raye, to build new local seafood restaurants and bars, upgrade the jetty and revamp the Fish Fry stalls.

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On-Site Activities

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Things to do in Saint Lucia

Chocolate making at fond doux.

Cost : US$70 per person/ $80 with snacks / US$90 with lunch

Included : Tour Guide, Coconut water drink, Chocolate bar, Free Parking (if not a resort guest)

What to know: Arrive 10 minutes before start time. Tour is offered daily from 8 am. Advanced reservations are advised; walk-ins will be accommodated if space is available.

Duration : approximately 2 hours

A Taste of Fond Doux

Cost : US$30

What’s included : Tour guide, Free parking (if not a resort guest)

What to know : Arrive 10 minutes before start time. Tour occurs daily from 9 am to 4 pm.

Duration : Approximately 45 minutes

Petit Piton Trail at Fond Doux

Cost : US$30 per person

What’s included : Tour Guide, Coconut water drink, Free parking (if not a resort guest), 1 bottle of water per person

What to know : Arrive 10 minutes before start time. Hike offered daily from 8 am by reservation only. Please wear appropriate footwear

Duration : approximately 1 hour

Fond Doux Historical Tour

What’s included : Professional tour guide, Free parking (if not a resort guest)

What to know : Arrive 10 minutes before start time, Tour is offered daily from 10am by reservation. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space is available.

Duration : approximately 45 minutes.

Free Beach Shuttle

AERIAL TRAM

The Rainforest Aerial Tram transports guests up and away from the heat and bustle of the lowlands to an ecological park located in the heights of St. Lucia’s forest reserve.

At around 2000 feet above sea level, the community of Chassin lies at the base of La Sorcière Mountain, which is home to Rainforest Adventures, Saint Lucia’s premiere eco-adventure park. From Castries and the island’s major hotels on the northwest coast, Rainforest Adventures is just half an hour’s drive up winding scenic roads, which offer a glimpse into island rural life. Rainforest Adventures eco-park is on the Castries Waterworks Reserve, first declared a national forest in 1916 and more recently gifted to Queen Elizabeth in November 2016 as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy. For the past 12 years, Saint Lucia, Rainforest Adventures offers a unique combination of thrilling and relaxing tours and has become the Caribbean’s leading name in ziplining, aerial tram, hiking and other eco-tours.

Tours Activities

• Aerial tram ride
• fern nature trail
• one (1) naturalistic guide per gondola

Additional Services Not Included

• Food & drinks

Optional Services Available

• Transportation

Recommended to Bring

• Close-toe shoes (mandatory)

Important Information

• Transportation is not private.
• Awesome views
• Approved and inspected by Aerial Trams ANSI B77 Code
• No fitness limits, for all ages
• Highest ratings in Health & Safety

Description Activities

Aerial tram.

Walking/hiking shoes for trail (no high heels, sandals or flip flops allowed for trails), Sun/Rain protection, Insect repellent, Camera, Binoculars, Travel details for Duty free shopping

The Rain Forest Adventure Park is a no smoking property

Disclaimer mandatory

The Aerial tram is for all ages and fitness levels – no restrictions.

Persons with walking difficulties can be accommodated.

The transfer duration can vary due to multiple pickups from the hotels and resorts.

Fern Nature Trail

Aerial Tram adventures interpreter will point out giant ferns and magnificent heliconia, and identify the calls and the plumage of the birdlife that makes the Caribbean Oceanic forest its home.

The descent affords a bird’s eye view of the forest and a spectacular panoramic vista of the north of the island. With much to see and listen for, the tram ride is a celebration of colour and life and a restorative retreat guaranteed to refresh the senses.

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Saint Lucia Tourism Stages ‘Sustainable Comeback’ – Nearing Record Levels

Announcing Saint Lucia’s half-year performance review at a news conference Monday, the Chief Executive Officer of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) declared a ‘sustainable comeback’.

“We have been resilient, and now we are proud to say that Saint Lucia as a destination is nearing record levels,” Lorine Charles-St. Jules told reporters.

The SLTA official disclosed that by the end of July 2023, Saint Lucia had recorded a twelve percent growth of stayover arrivals from 2022.

She said this represented 235 000 visitor arrivals over 2019, putting the destination at 90 percent of 2019 arrivals.

Charles-St. Jules said the basis for the performance was high destination demand, with rave reviews for Saint Lucia.

She also cited the resumption of travel.

She told reporters that January and May represented the ‘stellar months’, recording three percent growth over 2019 figures.

However, June and July recorded some dips.

But the SLTA Chief Executive Officer indicated that officials mentioned in March that the expected dip was due mainly to stock decline, United Kingdom challenges, and unexpected economic woes in the United States, the UK, and some Caribbean contraction.

She recalled that this year’s projection indicated that the Caribbean would be one of the growth pillars compared to last year.

“Definitely, we have seen such growth,” Charles-St. Jules told Tuesday’s news conference.

In addition, she said the United States market led for five months and recorded the best performance ever for Saint Lucia in April 2023.

The US occupied 56 percent of stayover arrivals for 2023 so far – the largest market share, followed by the United Kingdom with twenty percent.

“Canada has now doubled in size compared to last year. So Canada recorded one hundred percent growth so far for the year,” the SLTA official revealed.

Officials expect that by year-end, the Caribbean market will lead the growth due to discussions on improving regional air and ferry travel to Saint Lucia, in which Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire participated.

Charles-St. Jules told reporters that Saint Lucia recorded 6,500 visitors from the Caribbean for July, which she described as a significant improvement over last year.

Guyana, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines represented the growth areas.

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“Nearing record levels,” So my question to you Lorine Charles-St. Jules what percentage is missing to reach the record levels??? once again it’s good to keep our hopes alive however you officials need to have someone more intelligent write your press release statements before you go out there talking the reports..

In the release it was stated that “ She said this represented 235 000 visitor arrivals over 2019, putting the destination at 90 percent of 2019 arrivals.” 2019 is when Saint Lucia experienced record numbers. Maybe you should get someone more intelligent to read/interpret press releases on your behalf.

Re Article, with the influx of Tourism, What about the hotel’s workers? They deserve a fair living wage of $10+ per hours worked, to share the wealth… Hotel workers are people Too..

After almost 45 years of pretense at independence & sovereignty by St. Lucia, it is not surprising that we continue to struggle in the colonial trap of single plantation crops: first sugar; then bananas; and now tourism!

Someone should explain why St. Lucians are so fully involved in industry which only accrues 2% of its proceeds to the local populace, while 98% is sent overseas! The only difference between slavery & now is that we are allowed 2% of the proceeds to be able to sustain our lives, instead of massa being responsible for our well-being, as before!

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Let her inspire you, find your inspiration, saint lucia is no ordinary island.

Equal parts beauty and mystique, Saint Lucia captivates anyone who sets foot on her coastline. Always evocative, she welcomes visitors with her soothing waves, warm beaches, and hospitable people. The only sovereign nation to be named for a woman, the island personifies adventure and inspiration. Her visitors invariably find themselves reluctant to leave and eager to return.

Limitless Inspiration

Imagine yourself reclining on the sandy white beaches, soaking in the volcanic mud baths of Soufrière, ziplining through lush rainforests, indulging in authentic island food, club-hopping on the Rodney Bay strip, and riding ATVs through the countryside. Envision exploring abandoned sugar plantations, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, chasing brightly colored fish in the shadow of the Pitons, or experiencing a live sea turtle hatching in the last light of dusk.

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Saint Lucia’s foodie experience is truly one-of-a-kind and world-class.

There are plenty of family activities in Saint Lucia both on the land and sea.

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Here you have the opportunity to experience the adventure of a lifetime.

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Google will use this information to evaluate your use of the website, compiling reports on website activity for website operators and providing other services related to website activity and internet usage.

Google may also transfer this information to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google’s behalf.

Google will not associate your IP address with other data held by Google. You may refuse the use of cookies by selecting the appropriate settings on your browser, however please note that if you do this you may not be able to use the full functionality of this website.

By using this website, you consent to process data about you by Google in the manner and for the purposes set out above.