Saba / Special Interests / Hiking & Walking

Hiking is one of Saba's trump cards, and a prime reason to visit the island. There is a fine  network of a dozen marked trails criss-crossing its varied landscapes that offer walks ranging from 15 minutes to three hours one-way. To get an overview of what's possible pick up the Saba Map that's widely available including from the Saba Tourist Bureau in Windwardside. This, and the Trail Shop on the edge of town, are also the best places to get advice on the current condition of trails and to arrange the company of a local guide if desired. The latter also sells Saban Trails..., a walking guide that is rather old but still inspiring. You can also buy essentials here such as a compass, snacks and drinks, and borrow a walking pole.

Hiking Tips

Start early in the morning to avoid the heat later in the day, and tell your hotel what your plans are. Some trails start and finish at different points so if you don't want to do a round trip get a taxi to take you to the start point. Quite a few trails begin and end near a town or hotel, such as Queen's Garden Resort in The Bottom and Ecolodge Rendez-Vous in Windwardside, so you can get refreshment there and help calling a taxi. They are used to walkers turning up looking hot and muddy.

If it has been raining, some trails may be slippery or inaccessible, so seek local advice. On steep ascents, such as Mount Scenery, a walking pole is an excellent aid. Take sun-block, insect repellent, water, a snack, a compass, map and mobile phone. There are no dangerous animals on Saba but you may see snakes that are harmless, and some trails do require strenuous climbing or scrambling with a risk of vertigo.

Where to Hike

Where you go will depend on the weather and your fitness levels. Some routes, such as the North Coast Trail, should only be done with a guide. Some favourite hikes are:

Mount Scenery

If you like to get to the top of things, this steep climb up 1,064 irregular steps takes you to the peak of Saba. At 2,877ft (877m), Mount Scenery is the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Saba Tourist Bureau in Windwardside will issue a certificate of achievement to hikers who reach it (take a camera to prove you made it).

Near the summit the trail splits in two directions leading out to panoramic viewpoints over the island and across to St Eustatius and St Kitts. Sometimes the peak can be covered in cloud in which case it is better to choose another lower trail that day. You should also avoid making the climb if there has been heavy rain recently. Allow three hours for the round-trip.

The Ladder

Until the 1970s, this steep coastal stairway was the only way in and out of Saba. Everything on the island had to be carried up its 524 steps, including building materials, the infirm and even a grand piano. Allow 90 minutes for the round-trip.

Sandy Cruz Trail

Running between Queen's Garden Resort in Troy Hill (above The Bottom) and Upper Hell's Gate, this is one of the most popular trails with local walkers and takes in three different zones of vegetation with fine viewpoints along the way. Allow three hours walking one-way.