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Choiseul Petroglyphs

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Choiseul Petroglyphs are captivating remnants of Saint Lucia's pre-Columbian era, offering a glimpse into the lives of the island's earliest inhabitants. These ancient rock carvings, typically found on large volcanic boulders near rivers or coastal areas, are believed to have been created by the Arawak or Carib peoples. The designs often feature stylized human faces, celestial symbols, and intricate geometric patterns, the exact meanings of which remain a subject of archaeological debate. Scholars suggest they may have marked sacred sites used for religious rituals or served as territorial boundaries. Located in the culturally rich Choiseul district, known for its enduring traditions in pottery and basket weaving, these petroglyphs form a vital part of the nation's indigenous heritage. Visiting these sites involves a journey through lush landscapes, where the silent stones stand as enduring monuments to a civilization that lived in close harmony with the natural and spiritual worlds.

Location: St. Lucia
Top sights: Trou Barbet River · Choiseul, Saint Lucia · Choiseul District
Nearby: Soufrière (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	27	28	28	28	28	29	28	28	27
Rain mm	68	44	48	97	102	136	154	180	182	189	159	85

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Choiseul Petroglyphs are ancient rock carvings in the open air, usually freely accessible. You can examine the engravings on the rock slabs up close.

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Typical hours

Being an open-air site, there are no opening hours. It is best visited in dry weather and good daylight to see the details.

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Photography

Photography is allowed and encouraged. Use side lighting in the morning or late afternoon to make the carvings more visible.

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Time needed

A visit takes about 15-20 minutes to view and photograph the petroglyphs. The seclusion of the site invites a short pause.

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Combine with

Combine the petroglyphs with the Choiseul Arts Centre and a walk through the village. The cultural route through Choiseul features several points of interest.

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Getting there

The petroglyphs are located near Choiseul, off the main road. They are reachable by car plus a short walk; ask locals for the exact path.

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Insider tip

Do not touch the rock carvings to preserve them for future generations. Bring binoculars to better see the fine lines from a distance.

Geography

Coordinates

13.78250, -61.04950

Facts

Origin dates to the Pre-Columbian era before 1500 AD
Etched into massive volcanic boulders
Depict stylized human faces and symbols
Located in the Choiseul district in the southwest
Part of the Amerindian cultural heritage of St. Lucia
Archaeological studies date them back several centuries

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Choiseul<1 km · WExplore →

Choiseul Plateau2 km · NExplore →

Gros Piton2 km · SEExplore →

Soufriere Geothermal Field3 km · EExplore →

Balenbouche Estate Ruins3 km · NWExplore →

Petit Piton Waterfall Relief3 km · EExplore →

Toraille Waterfall4 km · EExplore →

Fond St. Jacques4 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Choiseul Petroglyphs (3)

Trou Barbet River📍 landmark

The Trou Barbet River is a river in southwestern Saint Lucia. It flows through a gorge with rock formations.

Choiseul, Saint Lucia📍 landmark

Choiseul is a town on the southwest coast of Saint Lucia. The settlement is known for its handicrafts.

Choiseul District📍 landmark

Choiseul District is an administrative district in southwestern Saint Lucia. The landscape is hilly.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where can you find the petroglyphs in Choiseul?

They are located near the Jaria River, somewhat hidden within the thick jungle.

Who created these rock carvings?

They are attributed to the pre-Columbian Amerindians (Arawaks/Caribs).

Do you need a guide to find them?

Yes, a local guide is highly recommended as the path is unmarked.

What is the difficulty level of the hike?

The hike is moderate but can be slippery and muddy after rainfall.

What do the carvings depict?

They depict abstract symbols and faces whose exact meaning is still being studied.

Choiseul Petroglyphs: where is it located?

Choiseul Petroglyphs is located in St. Lucia.

Choiseul Petroglyphs: what is there to see?

Highlights include Trou Barbet River, Choiseul, Saint Lucia, Choiseul District.

Choiseul Petroglyphs: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Choiseul Petroglyphs: why is it worth visiting?

The Choiseul Petroglyphs are captivating remnants of Saint Lucia's pre-Columbian era, offering a glimpse into the lives of the island's earliest inhabitants.

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