Barbados Wildlife Reserve - Waterbok after sunrise
1 / 10

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

4.5
·789 reviews·Benny Hall, Barbados

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daily, 2:00 PM

Monkey feeding time!

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Barbados Wildlife Reserve - Waterbok after sunrise

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

Best Time

Daily, 2:00 PM

Monkey feeding time!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(789 reviews)

"The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a must-visit for animal lovers, offering a unique glimpse into the island's fauna."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Green Monkey Feeding Frenzy

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

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

Diverse Animal Habitats

Various enclosures

See iguanas, deer, caimans, and a colorful array of parrots and macaws in their dedicated naturalistic settings.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Monkey Encounters

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is most vibrant during the daily monkey feeding at 2:00 PM. Arrive a bit before to secure a good spot and witness the playful antics of the green monkeys. Planning your visit around this time ensures you see the animals at their most active.

Respect the Wildlife

While the animals are accustomed to visitors, remember this is their natural habitat. Observe from a distance, avoid mimicking their behavior, and never feed them outside of designated times. This ensures a safe and ethical experience for both you and the animals.

Best Times

When
Daily, 2:00 PM
Why
Monkey feeding time!
Crowd
High
When
Late morning
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer animals
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must-do activity in Barbados!! And then off to Surfers Cafe for breakfast 🍳 #barbados #horse #thingstodobarbados
@dianawatkins
156K likes • 991.9K views

🎯 Arrive for Feeding Time

Don't miss the 2 PM monkey feeding! It's the highlight for many visitors. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The reserve has brick pathways, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Reddit

The ultimate experience for animal lovers #barbados #barbadostiktok #barbados🇧🇧 #travel #horses #carribean #traveltok #animalsoftiktok #fypシ
@petite.blondine
29.4K likes • 406.2K views
With love from the Caribbean // WILDLIFE RESERVE, BARBADOS! 📍save for Barbados inspiration📍 The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is located in a natural mahogany wood across the road from the Farley Hill National Park in the northern parish of St. Peter. Your entrance fee to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve also gains admission to the adjoining Grenade Hall Forest and Signal Station so be sure to head o...
samanthahaylor
330 likes • 2.2K views

🐒 Observe Monkeys from Afar

While cute, avoid mimicking monkeys to prevent them from feeling uneasy. Reddit

🚗 Easy to Get Around

Consider using the PickUP app for convenient transport to the reserve. TikTok

So cute seeing the #GreenMonkeys in @visitbarbados at the @barbadoswildlifereserve Just a #Fun fact: “The green monkeys found in Barbados originally came from Senegal and the Gambia in West Africa approximately 350 years ago.”
anjelamilagros
145 likes • 3K views

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. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The reserve has brick pathways, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Reddit

🐒 Observe Monkeys from Afar

While cute, avoid mimicking monkeys to prevent them from feeling uneasy. Reddit

🚗 Easy to Get Around

Consider using the PickUP app for convenient transport to the reserve. TikTok

💰 Admission Fee

Adults US$15, Children US$7.50. Worth it for the unique wildlife experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(789 reviews)

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

Monkey feeding spectacle
Free-roaming animals
Natural forest setting

What People Dislike

Enclosure conditions
Ethical feeding practices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is located in the northern parish of St. Peter, across from Farley Hill National Park.Instagram 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.TikTok

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.TikTok

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.Reddit 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.Reddit 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.Instagram 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.Reddit 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.Reddit

The reserve features brick pathways winding through a mahogany forest.Instagram It's generally easy to navigate, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the paths can be uneven in places.Reddit

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.TikTok

📸 📸 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.Instagram

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.Reddit

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.TikTok

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,Reddit 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

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a fantastic outing for families. Kids are often mesmerized by the playful green monkeys, especially during the 2:00 PM feeding time.Reddit The free-roaming tortoises and colorful peacocks also capture their attention. The reserve's pathways are generally easy to navigate, making it suitable for strollers, though comfortable shoes are recommended.Reddit

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,Reddit 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

For those who love nature, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve offers a peaceful escape into a mahogany forest teeming with life. Beyond the famous green monkeys, you can explore the grounds and discover deer, caimans, and various reptiles.Instagram The free-roaming tortoises and vibrant peacocks add to the serene atmosphere.

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

The Barbados Green Monkey is a true icon of the island, and the Barbados Wildlife Reserve is one of the best places to see them. These monkeys were originally brought from West Africa to Barbados around 350 years ago.Instagram They are known for their playful nature and are most active during their daily feeding time at 2:00 PM.Reddit

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.TikTok While they are accustomed to humans, it's important to remember they are wild animals and to observe them respectfully from a safe distance.Reddit

Beyond the Monkeys: A Diverse Ecosystem

While the green monkeys are a major draw, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve is home to a variety of other fascinating creatures. You can wander along the brick pathways through the mahogany forest and encounter free-roaming tortoises and vibrant peacocks.Instagram The reserve also houses deer, caimans, and Cuban iguanas.Instagram

Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse avian population, including colorful parrots and macaws.Instagram 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.Reddit

Ethical Considerations and Visitor Experiences

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve aims to be a sanctuary for its animals, but some visitors have raised ethical questions, particularly regarding the feeding of wild monkeys and the condition of some enclosures.Reddit It's a point of discussion among travelers who are passionate about animal welfare.

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.Reddit It's a place that sparks conversation and offers a unique perspective on Barbados's wildlife.

You may also like

1 of 2