St Eustatius / Special Interests / Hiking & Walking

Hiking is a rewarding activity on St Eustatius, particularly if you take the opportunity to climb up the flanks of the Quill and explore the hidden world of this densely forested volcanic crater. The island offers a variety of marked trails set within the Quill/Boven National Park which has two sections - the Quill volcano and five northern hills collectively known as the Boven. A third protected area, Signal Hill, can only be visited with prior permission from Nustar Energy and in the company of a National Park guide. To get an overview of what's possible it's best to purchase the combined map and leaflet covering the Quill that is available from the St Eustatius Tourist Office in Fort Oranje (Oranjestad Upper Town) or the offices of STENAPA, the St Eustatius National Parks Foundation (Oranjestad Lower Town, both closed weekends). You can also pick up The Hiker's Guide to the Quill/Boven National Park, a walking guide that is rather old but still inspiring.

Hiking Tips

Start early in the morning to avoid the heat later in the day, and tell your hotel what your plans are. If it has been raining, some trails may be slippery or inaccessible, so seek local advice. Not all routes are well-maintained.

Taxis can take you to start points and collect you later – it is best if you have a mobile phone to confirm timing and exact location. If you drive, ask your hotel for directions and do not leave valuables in the vehicle.

On steep ascents, such as the Quill, stout footwear is advisable, along with sun-block, insect repellent, water, a snack, a compass, map and mobile phone. There are no dangerous animals on St Eustatius but you may see snakes (non-poisonous), and some trails do require strenuous climbing or scrambling with a risk of vertigo.

It is a good idea to hire a guide as some trails are confusing to follow and you can also learn a lot from having a companion with local knowledge. National Park guides can be arranged by visiting the STENAPA office (see above). Advance notice is required and there are official set rates - for example, a three-hour trip to the Quill crater costs $40 for two, excluding tip. Local freelance guides are also available, we recommend Rafael Lopes, t 523 9039.

Where to Hike

Where you go will depend on the weather and your fitness levels. Some favourite Statia hikes are:

Quill Trail - Starting in Rosemary Lane, this steep ascent through thick woodland takes you to the crater rim of the Quill. For an even better view, take the add-on Panorama Point Trail which requires some scrambling. Allow two hours.

Gilboa Ridges - In the northern hills, a set of four interconnected trails explore the three parallel Gilboa Ridges with good sea views and plenty of historic ruins to clamber over. The signs are confusing and the trails overgrown in places. Allow two hours.

Boven Trail - A strenuous hike in the northern hills that ascends from Venus Bay to the 964ft (294m) summit of Boven Hill. Take a picnic and allow five hours.