Grenada travel guide
Grenada Tourism | Grenada Guide
You're Going to Love Grenada
The breathtaking group of islands in the West Indies offers understated comfort and a tranquil climate. Commonly referred to as the Island of Spice, Grenada is one of the world's largest producers of nutmeg and the aromatic smells fill the air. Stunning beaches hug the southern coastline near St George's while gushing waterfalls and natural hot springs can be found inland.
What to do in Grenada
1. Scale Fort George
The impressive fortress was built by French inhabitants at the beginning of the 18th century and provides an unrivaled view across the capital city.
2. Relax on Carriacou
There is a calmer vibe on the island, which is located roughly 12 mi from the main island of Grenada. Palm trees scatter the sandy beaches and locals have cheerful energy.
3. Discover the Grenada National Museum
Exhibitions shed light on the history of slavery and the fishing-based economy, while cultural heritage is traced from native Indians to the colonial era.
4. Explore Grand Etang National Park
Winding paths track through the dense rainforest and lead to volcanic crater Grand Etang Lake. Countless waterfalls can also be spotted along the way.
5. Take a Tour Through the Diamond Chocolate Factory
While we all love chocolate, not many understand the process of production. Guided tours showcase the journey from harvesting the beans to tasty final goods.
When to visit Grenada
Travel between December and May to avoid being caught up in the tropical wet season. Temperatures will consistently sit around 86°F and despite being the dry season, it's always smart to pack a rain jacket.
How to Get to Grenada
Entry requirements
Nationals of the United States, European Union, Canada, the United Kingdom, and British Commonwealth have visa exemption. Most neighboring countries throughout the Caribbean, baring Cuba, also do not require a visa. Tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival by other citizens for a fee of approximately 25 XCD (9 USD).
Plane
Maurice Bishop Airport receives all international flights, including direct services from New York (4h 45min), London (11h), Porlamar (50min), and Toronto (5h 15min) with British Airways, American Airlines, JetBlue, and Virgin Atlantic. Regional carriers such as LIAT and Caribbean Airlines offer routes from locations such as Barbados and Port of Spain. A non-stop flight from New York can be purchased for approximately 460-540 XCD (170-200 USD).
Popular airports in Grenada
Popular airlines serving Grenada
Where to stay in Grenada
St George's has a variety of cozy cottages and apartments, while the southwestern region of Grenada near Grand Anse features upscale hotels and all-inclusive resorts. Carriacou has budget-friendly guesthouses as well as mid-range cottages to choose from.
Where to stay in popular areas of Grenada
How to Get Around Grenada
Public Transportation
Minibuses are the most common form of transport within St George's, while towns such as Grand Anse and Grenville can either be navigated on foot or by taxi.
Bus
It's possible to travel right across the main island of Grenada on one of the nine minibus routes. Services operate on a reliable timetable between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, with destinations including Woburn, Marian, Victoria, and Mt. Moritz. One-way fares cost around 2-10 XCD (0.70-3.70 USD). Two routes connect the regions of Hillsborough, L'Esterre, and Windward on Carriacou but stop running at 5:00 pm.
Car
In order to pick up a rental car, visitors must show the driver's license from their country of origin at a police station and pay a fee of approximately 30 XCD (11 USD). Cars drive on the left-hand side while roads often have significant hills in regional areas.
Plane
Nonstop flights between Maurice Bishop Airport and Hillsborough (20min) can be taken with SVG Air for approximately 119 XCD (44 USD).
Boat
Ferry services link the islands of Carriacou, Grenada, and Petite Martinique. Services only depart each island once or twice a day and adult fares range from around 20-80 XCD (7-30 USD). No ferries operate to or from Petite Martinique on the weekend. Water taxis can be caught from cruise terminals and marinas, providing direct transport to scenic spots, such as Grand Anse Beach.
The Cost of Living in Grenada
Eating dinner out at a standard restaurant costs roughly 75 XCD (28 USD) and a dozen eggs can be bought for around 10 XCD (3.70 USD). Small businesses, such as market stalls, only accept cash, however, credit cards can be used to pay for accommodation and most meals out.