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Colonarie Valley
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The Colonarie Valley is the largest and economically most significant valley on the windward coast (east coast) of Saint Vincent. It is traversed by the Colonarie River, the longest river on the island, which over millennia has carved a wide and fertile plain into the volcanic rock. The valley is the agricultural heart of the region, where bananas, arrowroot, and a variety of root vegetables are cultivated on a large scale. Geographically, it extends from the foothills of the Morne Garu mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, offering a diverse landscape of terraced fields and dense gallery forests along the riverbank. The valley's topography favors hydroelectric power utilization, with several plants contributing to the energy supply. Historically, the valley was a scene of fierce clashes between the indigenous Caribs and British colonial powers for control of the fertile land. Today, the Colonarie Valley is an example of Saint Vincent's rural vitality and an important corridor for the transport of goods between the north and south of the windward coast. Climatic conditions are characterized by the direct influence of the northeast trade winds, leading to regular rainfall.
- Location: St. Vincent & Grenadines
- Nearby: Calliaqua (7 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 | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 27 | 15 | 20 | 21 | 41 | 68 | 74 | 88 | 88 | 107 | 89 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access is mostly via the eastern coastal highway, with secondary roads and agricultural trails branching into the long valley structure.
Best season
Visiting between January and May is highly recommended to enjoy clearer skies and avoid the heavy tropical downpours of the wet season.
Terrain & paths
The valley floor features agricultural lands and gentle slopes, but the trails can become quite rugged and overgrown further inland.
What to bring
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and plenty of drinking water, as tourist facilities are scarce once you leave the main settlements.
Parking
Small parking spots can typically be found in the coastal towns at the valley's entrance or along the wider sections of the main road.
Safety
Stay on visible paths to avoid trespassing on private agricultural property, and be mindful of local farm vehicles on narrow dirt roads.
Time needed
Exploring the accessible parts of this long valley usually takes around two to four hours, making it a pleasant half-day excursion.
Geography
Facts
- The most extensive river valley on the island's windward coast.
- Drained by the Colonarie River, which originates in Morne Garu.
- Considered the most productive area for Saint Vincent's banana exports.
- Hosts the Colonarie Hydroelectric Plant, a vital energy source.
- Was a strategic center during the Carib Wars in the 18th century.
- The soils consist of alluvial deposits of volcanic origin.
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 Colonarie Valley (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Colonarie Valley suitable for adventurers?
Yes, it provides wild terrain and excellent opportunities for challenging hikes.
Is parking available in the valley?
Parking is difficult; it is best to use local taxis or guides.
What clothing is recommended?
Light, breathable clothing and sturdy, waterproof footwear are convenient.
Is camping allowed in the valley?
Wild camping is not permitted; look for official campsites in the region.
Is the area safe?
It is safe during the day, but explore wild areas only with local companions.
Colonarie Valley: where is it located?
Colonarie Valley is located in St. Vincent & Grenadines.
Colonarie Valley: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Colonarie Valley: why is it worth visiting?
The Colonarie Valley is the largest and economically most significant valley on the windward coast (east coast) of Saint Vincent.
Nearby cities
Kingstown
Kingstown is the capital and chief port of Saint Vincent.
Calliaqua
Calliaqua is located on the southern coast of Saint Vincent.
🗺️
Byera Hill
Byera Hill is a settlement on the eastern coast of Saint Vincent.
Biabou
Biabou is a settlement on the eastern coast of Saint Vincent.
Barrouallie Fisheries Complex
A significant coastal hub for the national fishing industry.
Barrouallie
Barrouallie is a coastal town on the western side of Saint Vincent.
Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth is the main settlement on the island of Bequia.
Derrick
Derrick is a small settlement in the south of Bequia island.
Chateaubelair
Chateaubelair is the northernmost town on the leeward coast of Saint Vincent.
Dovers
Dovers is a small settlement on the exclusive island of Mustique.
Layou
Layou is situated north of Kingstown on the western coast.
History & landmarks
Black Point Tunnel
The Black Point Tunnel is a 300-foot engineering feat completed in 1815.
Rabacca Dry River
Rabacca Dry River is a volcanic riverbed that has historically been the site of major lahars.
Dark View Falls
A pair of waterfalls cascading down high cliff faces on the Richmond River.
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Trinity Falls
A powerful triple-drop waterfall located deep within the forest of the northern mountains.
Owia Salt Pond
A natural pool formed by volcanic rocks where the Atlantic Ocean crashes over the barriers.
Indian Bay Beach
A popular sandy beach on the southern coast protected by a coral reef.
Nature
Grand Bonhomme
A central mountain peak reaching 970 meters, covered in dense elfin forest.
Colonarie River
One of the longest rivers on the island, flowing through the central mountains to the Atlantic coast.
Richmond Peak
A 1,077-meter peak located south of the Soufrière volcano.
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Petit Bonhomme
Petit Bonhomme is the smaller neighboring peak to Grand Bonhomme, forming part of the island's central backbone.
La Soufrière
An active stratovolcano reaching 1,234 meters, forming the highest point of the island.
Vermont Nature Trail
This reserve protects the habitat of the rare St.
More places
Morne Garu
The Morne Garu massif is a rugged mountain range situated between Richmond Peak and the northern central range.
King's Hill Forest Reserve
One of the oldest forest reserves in the world, established by law in 1791.
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Mesopotamia Valley Agricultural Zone
The fertile heart of food production on the island.
Argyle International Airport
The country's largest infrastructure project facilitates direct international flights.
Mesopotamia Valley
Often called the breadbasket of the island, this lush valley is known for its fertile volcanic soil.
Montreal Gardens
A private botanical garden located in a lush valley with a diverse collection of exotic flowers.
Mesopotamia Valley Nature Reserve
Known as the island's food basket, this valley hosts an immense variety of tropical plants and crops.
Argyle Petroglyphs
The Argyle Petroglyphs were relocated to a protected site near the airport to preserve them.