Plizio Visual Lab
Grand Etang Lake
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Grand Etang Lake is a captivating volcanic crater lake tucked away in the central highlands of Grenada, situated about 530 meters above sea level. Formed within an extinct volcano, it serves as the centerpiece of the Grand Etang National Park, a lush sanctuary of tropical rainforest and cloud forest. The lake's waters are approximately 6 meters deep and often appear perfectly still, reflecting the verdant slopes of the surrounding peaks. This area is world-renowned for its resident population of Mona monkeys, which were introduced from West Africa centuries ago and have since thrived in this humid habitat. Visitors can explore various trails, such as the Shoreline Trail, which winds through giant ferns, mahogany trees, and spirited tropical blooms like the ginger lily. The high altitude provides a cooler, misty climate that supports a vast array of birdlife and rare plants, making the lake a premier destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking to experience Grenada's untamed interior.
- Location: Grenada
- Top sights: Grenada · Morne Longue · Willis, Grenada
- Nearby: Gouyave (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 30 | 34 | 37 | 78 | 135 | 159 | 161 | 141 | 180 | 175 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Located in the central mountainous region, this volcanic lake is typically reached via the island's main cross-country road that conveniently passes close to the crater's edge.
Best season
Visiting is rewarding throughout the year, but the dry season has much clearer skies and significantly less muddy conditions for exploring the surrounding tropical rainforest.
Terrain & paths
The immediate lakeside area features relatively gentle, well-trodden paths, though trails extending deeper into the dense rainforest quickly become uneven and root-covered.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight but reliable rain protection, strong insect repellent, and binoculars are good for exploring the lake margins and observing local wildlife.
Parking
There is usually an official visitor center or a designated parking area nearby where visitors can safely leave their cars before enjoying the short walk down to the crater lake.
Safety
Always stay on the formally marked trails around the water's edge, completely avoid swimming in the lake due to steep underwater drop-offs, and respect the natural habitat.
Time needed
Visitors typically spend one to two hours admiring the panoramic 530-meter high volcanic lake and strolling leisurely along the immediate, easily accessible shoreline trails.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: 530 meters (1,739 feet)
- Lake area: 10 hectares (24.7 acres)
- Maximum depth: 6 meters (20 feet)
- Formed: approximately 12,000 years ago
- Park established: 1994
- Annual rainfall: over 3,000 mm (118 inches)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Grand Etang Lake (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How deep is Grand Etang Lake?
The exact depth is not known, but it is a very deep, water-filled volcanic crater.
Is swimming allowed in the lake?
No, swimming in the lake is not allowed for safety and nature conservation reasons.
Are there fish in the lake?
Yes, there are fish and crayfish, but fishing is prohibited.
What is the weather usually like at the lake?
It is often misty, cooler than on the coast, and rains frequently.
Can you walk completely around the lake?
Yes, there is a hiking trail around the lake that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Grand Etang Lake: where is it located?
Grand Etang Lake is located in Grenada.
Grand Etang Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include Grenada, Morne Longue, Willis, Grenada.
Grand Etang Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Grand Etang Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Grand Etang Lake is a captivating volcanic crater lake tucked away in the central highlands of Grenada, situated about 530 meters above sea level.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
Nearby cities
St. George's
St.
Grand Anse
Grand Anse is the tourist heart of Grenada, famous for its world-renowned three-kilometer-long sandy beach.
Grand Anse Commercial District
This area is the commercial heart of Grenada, housing numerous banks, shopping centers, and tourism service providers.
Gouyave
Gouyave is the fishing capital of Grenada and the head town of Saint John Parish.
Grenville
Grenville is the second largest town in Grenada and the administrative center of Saint Andrew Parish.
Marquis
Marquis is a historic village in Saint Andrew Parish on the east coast.
Saint David's
Saint David's is the main settlement of the parish of the same name in the southeast of the island.
Crochu
Crochu is a rural village on the border between Saint Andrew and Saint David Parishes.
Sauteurs
Sauteurs is located on the northern coast of Grenada and is the main town of Saint Patrick Parish.
Harvey Vale
Harvey Vale is a coastal settlement in the southwest of Carriacou island.
Hillsborough
Hillsborough is the largest town and administrative center of Carriacou island.
Tivoli
Tivoli is a farming village in Saint Andrew Parish, known for its fertile soil.
Calivigny
Calivigny is a residential area in southern Grenada, located near the coast.
History & landmarks
Nature
Fedon's Camp
Fedon's Camp is a historic ridge in the mountains of Grenada.
Mount Qua Qua
Mount Qua Qua is a prominent peak within the Grand Etang National Park.
Mount Lebanon
Mount Lebanon is part of the central volcanic spine that runs through Grenada.
Seven Sisters Falls
A group of seven waterfalls located within Grand Etang National Park.
Mount Granby
Mount Granby is the second highest peak in Grenada, located in the central mountain range.
South East Mountain
South East Mountain is a prominent relief feature in the St.
Jessamine Eden
A 24-hectare estate featuring tropical gardens, a rainforest trail, and honeybee colonies.
Smithy's Garden
A well-known garden in St.
More places
Grand Etang National Park
This protected area in the center of the island encompasses a crater lake and dense rainforest.
🗺️
Westerhall Estate
Westerhall Estate is one of Grenada's most prominent rum distilleries and a key employer in the southern part of the island.
Concord Falls
A series of three waterfalls located in a fertile valley known for its nutmeg plantations and rich avian life.
Annandale Falls
A 10-meter high waterfall surrounded by a lush garden of ferns and tropical trees.
Dougaldston Estate
This historic 18th-century spice estate preserves traditional drying and processing methods for nutmeg and cocoa.
Belmont Estate
Belmont Estate is a significant agro-industrial center specializing in organic cocoa and chocolate production.
Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station
This facility is one of the largest nutmeg processing centers in the world and a cornerstone of Grenada's agricultural economy.
Mt. Rich Petroglyphs
These ancient Amerindian rock carvings in the Mt.