Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Discover Barbados's unique wildlife, from playful green monkeys to free-roaming tortoises, in a serene mahogany forest setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Monkey feeding time!
Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Best Time
Monkey feeding time!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Barbados's unique wildlife, from playful green monkeys to free-roaming tortoises, in a serene mahogany forest setting.
"The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a must-visit for animal lovers, offering a unique glimpse into the island's fauna."
🎯 Arrive for Feeding Time
Don't miss the 2 PM monkey feeding! It's the highlight for many visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The reserve has brick pathways, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Green Monkey Feeding Frenzy
Main enclosure
Witness hundreds of Barbados green monkeys descend for their daily feeding. A truly wild and unforgettable spectacle!

Wandering Tortoises and Peacocks
Forest pathways
Stroll through the mahogany forest and encounter free-roaming tortoises and vibrant peacocks. A peaceful, natural encounter.

Diverse Animal Habitats
Various enclosures
See iguanas, deer, caimans, and a colorful array of parrots and macaws in their dedicated naturalistic settings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Monkey Encounters
Respect the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for Feeding Time
Don't miss the 2 PM monkey feeding! It's the highlight for many visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The reserve has brick pathways, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
🐒 Observe Monkeys from Afar
While cute, avoid mimicking monkeys to prevent them from feeling uneasy.
🚗 Easy to Get Around
Consider using the PickUP app for convenient transport to the reserve.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for Feeding Time
Don't miss the 2 PM monkey feeding! It's the highlight for many visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The reserve has brick pathways, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
🐒 Observe Monkeys from Afar
While cute, avoid mimicking monkeys to prevent them from feeling uneasy.
🚗 Easy to Get Around
Consider using the PickUP app for convenient transport to the reserve.
💰 Admission Fee
Adults US$15, Children US$7.50. Worth it for the unique wildlife experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally enjoy the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, particularly for the chance to see the playful green monkeys during their daily feeding. The free-roaming tortoises and peacocks also add to the charm. However, some guests express concerns about the ethical implications of feeding wild animals and the condition of certain enclosures.
"We had a fun time visiting the Barbados Wildlife Reserve!
Animals: The reserve is home to a variety of animals, including Barbados green monkeys, tortoises, iguanas, parrots, macaws, lovebirds, deer, and caimans.
Monkey Feeding Time: The monkeys are most abundant during the afternoon feeding time, which occurs daily at 2:00 PM.
Admission Fee: Adults US$15, Children US$7.50.
Be aware of the monkeys: While generally not aggressive, caution is advised, especially during feeding time. Do not try to mimic them, as this can make them uneasy."
Arch S
"This was the best place i went was to see monkeys and just driving around with Omar was so much fun! He taught us a lot and he was very thorough. I didn't get to do the turtle swim which was a huge bummer but the mo keys were cool and all the outside animals. Like the tortoise and the peacock 🦚 was super cool. It poured rain so it was overcast but the ocean was still nice!"
Keri Corley
"Seeing all the tortoises and monkeys up close is very cool, but some of the animals (particularly the parrots) are in pretty sad enclosures, and feeding wild monkeys is ethically questionable. I wish they had more information about their alleged efforts to reduce human-monkey conflict; it's not at all clear how feeding monkeys amongst human onlookers would further that stated goal. I'm pretty conflicted about this one."
Byron Drury
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is located in the northern parish of St. Peter, across from Farley Hill National Park.
Many visitors rent a car or take a taxi. For a more budget-friendly and convenient option, consider using the PickUP app, which functions similarly to Uber.Parking is generally available at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially if you're aiming for the 2 PM monkey feeding, to ensure a good spot.
Yes, many island tours include a stop at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, offering a convenient way to visit if you don't have your own transportation. Some tours might also combine it with other attractions like Farley Hill National Park.
For exploring beyond the reserve, renting a car offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, the reggae buses are a fun and affordable way to travel between towns, and apps like PickUP can be useful for on-demand rides.
While direct public bus routes might be limited to the main roads, you can often take a bus to a nearby town and then arrange a short taxi ride to the reserve. Check local bus schedules for routes serving St. Peter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are approximately US$15 for adults and US$7.50 for children.
These fees contribute to the upkeep and care of the animals within the reserve.The reserve is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially around public holidays.
Generally, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Booking in advance is usually not necessary unless you are part of a large group tour.
Many visitors find the admission fee worthwhile for the unique opportunity to see green monkeys and other wildlife up close in a natural setting.
The experience is often described as a highlight of a Barbados trip.Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or group bookings. It's best to inquire directly with the reserve or check their official information channels for any current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see Barbados green monkeys, tortoises, deer, caimans, iguanas, and a variety of birds including parrots, macaws, and peacocks.
The reserve aims to provide a natural habitat for these creatures.The most popular time to see the monkeys is during their feeding time at 2:00 PM daily.
This is when they are most active and visible. Visiting in the late morning can also be rewarding with fewer crowds.While there aren't always formal guided tours, staff are often present and can provide information. Some visitors have mentioned positive experiences with knowledgeable individuals who share insights about the animals.
The reserve features brick pathways winding through a mahogany forest.
It's generally easy to navigate, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the paths can be uneven in places.Yes, photography and videography are encouraged! It's a great place to capture memorable moments of the wildlife. Remember to be respectful and not disturb the animals with excessive flash or noise.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the monkey feeding, the free-roaming tortoises, and the colorful peacocks offer fantastic photo opportunities. The lush mahogany forest also provides a beautiful natural backdrop.
Yes, the reserve's design allows for relatively close viewing of many animals, especially during feeding times. However, always maintain a safe and respectful distance.
A zoom lens is helpful for capturing wildlife details from a distance. However, a standard smartphone camera can also capture great shots, especially during the active feeding periods.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, avoid using flash photography directly at the animals, as it can startle them. Be mindful of other visitors and their experience.
You can photograph any part of the reserve. Some visitors have noted concerns about certain animal enclosures,
and sharing your observations through photos can contribute to discussions about animal welfare.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to teach children about wildlife conservation and the importance of respecting animals in their natural habitats. The admission fee is reasonable for families, making it an accessible and educational activity. Remember to bring water and snacks, and keep a close eye on children, especially around the monkeys.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
While the reserve is relatively small, it provides a concentrated dose of Barbados's unique fauna. It's a chance to observe animals in a setting that aims to be as natural as possible, offering a different perspective from the island's famous beaches. Consider combining your visit with a walk through the nearby Farley Hill National Park for an extended nature experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Green Monkeys of Barbados
Visitors often describe the monkey feeding as a highlight, with hundreds of monkeys gathering to eat. It's a lively and sometimes chaotic scene, offering fantastic opportunities for photos and observation. While they are accustomed to humans, it's important to remember they are wild animals and to observe them respectfully from a safe distance.
Beyond the Monkeys: A Diverse Ecosystem
Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse avian population, including colorful parrots and macaws. The enclosures are designed to mimic natural habitats, providing a glimpse into the island's biodiversity. Some visitors have noted that certain bird enclosures could be improved, but the overall experience of seeing these animals in a semi-natural setting is highly regarded.
Ethical Considerations and Visitor Experiences
Despite these concerns, many visitors still find the reserve to be a rewarding experience, especially for families and those seeking to connect with nature. The opportunity to see animals like tortoises and monkeys up close in a relaxed environment is often cited as a positive aspect. It's a place that sparks conversation and offers a unique perspective on Barbados's wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit