Fancy trading your frosty Canadian mornings for the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean? Grenada, the "Spice Isle", is the perfect place for you to embrace the sun. Brimming with fragrant nutmeg groves, majestic waterfalls, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich history, you will surely be captivated by this island’s laid-back charm.
To help you have a smooth and hassle-free trip, we have listed everything you need to know about travelling to Grenada. This comprehensive guide is your trusty companion as you prepare for a truly unforgettable getaway. So, relax and let's get you ready for your tropical adventure!
Picture yourself surrounded by emerald hills cascading down to pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waters. That's Grenada, and it's calling your name! Before you can wiggle your toes in the island’s warm bays, there are some things that you need to prepare. Think of this checklist as your pre-travel morning coffee—essential for a smooth journey!
The good news? Canadian citizens generally don't need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days in Grenada. However, always double-check the latest entry requirements on the official website of the Grenadian government or your nearest Grenadian High Commission or Consulate just to be safe.
Make sure your Canadian passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay on the island. Border officials are sticklers for this, and you don't want your holiday plans spoiled before they even begin.
Also, don't forget to get insurance. This is non-negotiable, folks. Medical care in a foreign country can be expensive. Comprehensive travel insurance will cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen hiccups. Read the fine print and ensure it covers adventurous activities you plan to partake in, like diving or hiking.
Direct flights from Canada to Grenada are available but not very common. They are usually only available on Tuesdays and Sundays. So, if you are travelling on a different day, you will likely have a connecting flight, often through the United States or another Caribbean island.
Book well in advance to snag the best deals, especially during peak seasons from December to April. Connecting flights are usually cheaper, but they are also longer. The shortest flight time for direct flights is around 5 hours and 20 minutes. For connecting flights, it can vary significantly, ranging from 8 hours to over 24 hours, depending on the layover duration and number of stops.
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about health precautions for Grenada. It's recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid as these can be contracted through contaminated food or water.
Grenada is a tropical island, so mosquitoes are present. Although the island is not high-risk for Malaria, Dengue fever and Chikungunya are present. Pack a good quality insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers in the evenings, and consider using mosquito nets in your accommodation if provided.
The Caribbean sun is strong! Pack high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from those powerful rays. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or natural overhangs whenever possible and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from cotton or linen, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. You will be spending a fair bit of time by the water, so pack a few sets of your favourite swimwear. Sandals are a must, but also pack walking shoes or trainers for exploring inland and hiking. Water shoes are handy for rocky beaches and aquatic activities.
While Grenada is generally casual, pack a couple of smarter outfits for evenings out at restaurants. Tropical showers can be sudden, so a lightweight raincoat or poncho is a good idea. Have a small backpack for day trips and carrying essentials.
To capture those incredible snorkelling and diving moments, consider bringing an underwater camera. Take note that Grenada uses Type G plugs, so you'll need an adapter for your Canadian electronics. Check the voltage compatibility as well.
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). While US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, you will often get a better exchange rate using XCD. You can exchange Canadian dollars for XCD at banks or exchange bureaus in Grenada. It's generally advisable to exchange a small amount upon arrival and then use ATMs for further withdrawals. Just be aware of potential transaction fees.
Major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, smaller establishments and local markets may prefer cash. Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid your cards being blocked. Tipping is customary in Grenada. A service charge of 10% may be added to your bill at restaurants and hotels. If not, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated for good service.
Great, you have packed your bags, and you are ready to roll! Now for the exciting bit—what to do in this Caribbean paradise. Grenada offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. Forget the crowded tourist traps; the island provides an authentic Caribbean experience like no other.
The first stop is St. George’s, Grenada's charming capital city known for its stunning natural harbor, colorful colonial architecture, and rich history. Walk around the Carenage, a beautiful horseshoe-shaped inner harbor and waterfront promenade. The name "Carenage" comes from the French word for careening, where ships were once hauled on their sides for cleaning and repair. It's a lively area where you can see fishing boats, yachts, and historic buildings lining the shore.
To get a panoramic view of the city, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline, go to Fort George. Perched on a promontory overlooking the Carenage and St. George's Bay, this historic fort was built by the French in 1705. While some of the fort is dilapidated, it's a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning vistas.
Take a trip back in time inside the Grenada National Museum. Housed in former French barracks dating back to 1704, the museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the island's history, including Amerindian pottery, sugar processing machinery, whaling industry items, and even Josephine Bonaparte's marble bath.
To complete your day in St. George, stroll around the Market Square. It’s a bustling, open-air market where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, local crafts, and more. It's a vibrant place to experience local life and find unique souvenirs. The best time to visit is on Friday and Saturday mornings.
Grand Anse Beach, an iconic two-mile stretch of golden sand, is often hailed as one of the Caribbean's best. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere with its numerous resorts, restaurants, and water sports operators. The Morne Rouge Bay, a more tranquil and secluded option, is ideal for couples and families, with calm waters and shady spots. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the beachfront eateries.
Located in the north, Levera Beach is part of Levera National Park and offers stunning views of offshore islands. It is also the primary nesting area for leatherback turtles and hosts hundreds of nests each year, sometimes between 700 and 1000 in a season, which typically runs from April to July.
The Grand Etang National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in the interior of Grenada. Established in 1906, it's the oldest and largest protected area in the country, encompassing over 3,000 acres of lush tropical rainforest. The park is centered around the beautiful Grand Etang Lake, a 36-acre crater lake nestled in an extinct volcano.
Grand Etang is the island’s most popular area for hiking and trekking, offering a network of trails for all fitness levels. Due to its varied elevations, the park boasts distinct eco-zones, including rainforest and elfin woodlands at higher altitudes. This supports a rich variety of flora and fauna. While hiking, keep an eye out for Mona monkeys and a variety of birdlife.
If you want to get refreshed, take a hike to sunning waterfalls! The Seven Sisters Falls requires a moderately challenging hike, while the Concord Falls is accessible by a short drive and easy walk. If you want to chase more waterfalls beyond the park, you can drive to Annandale Falls, a popular spot with a dramatic waterfall cascading into a natural pool. You might even catch local divers showing off their skills.
The clear, warm waters surrounding Grenada offer a fantastic array of underwater adventures for all skill levels. The island boasts numerous wrecks, vibrant reefs, and even a unique underwater sculpture park. The Moliniere Underwater Sculpture Park, created by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, is the world's first public underwater sculpture park, opening in 2006. It features over 75 concrete sculptures depicting local Grenadian people and cultural elements. The sculptures act as artificial reefs, attracting a diverse array of marine life, including colorful corals, sponges, and various fish species.
Known as the "Shipwreck Capital of the Caribbean", Grenada lives up to its title with numerous wrecks to dive into. Bianca C, dubbed as the "Titanic of the Caribbean”, is the largest shipwreck in the region, a 600-foot luxury liner that sank in 1961. It's a must-dive for experienced divers due to its depth (30-50 meters/100-165 feet) and potential currents. Expect to see barracuda, eagle rays, and vibrant coral growth.
Grenada's nickname as the “Spice Isle” is well-earned. Taking a tour of a spice plantation is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the island's rich agricultural heritage and discover the aromatic treasures that have shaped its history and culture. Tour guides will teach you about the cultivation and processing of nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and spices. You will learn the various uses of each spice in Grenadian cuisine, traditional medicine, and even cosmetics.
Be prepared for an olfactory delight! You will get to smell the fragrant leaves, bark, roots, and fruits of the spice plants. Tours usually end with opportunities to taste fresh spices or products made from them, such as the unique nutmeg ice cream. You can buy some of the spices to bring home a flavour of Grenada.
Grenada is also increasingly becoming known for its high-quality, organic, and ethically produced chocolate. Several places offer fantastic chocolate factory tours where you can learn about the bean-to-bar process, sample delicious treats, and even make your own chocolate. The Belmont Estate is a historic plantation dating back to the 17th century that provides a comprehensive "Tree-to-Bar Chocolate Tour". This immersive experience takes you through the entire chocolate-making process, from the cocoa greenhouse and fermentary to the drying house and the chocolate factory itself.
Travelling to this Carribean paradise doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some handy tips for making your Canadian dollars stretch further in Grenada.
Grenada is a truly special destination, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From the fragrant spice plantations to the vibrant underwater world, there's something to enchant every Canadian traveller.
To get the most out of your Grenadian trip, book a car for rent. This will allow you to explore the island at your own pace and go to hidden gems less visited. They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Grenada, so ensure you're comfortable with this and obtain a local driving permit. Some roads can be narrow and winding in some areas, but others are relatively safe and easy to traverse.
Finalrentals makes renting a car smooth and hassle-free. Our platform is user-friendly with no hidden charges, so you can get the best vehicle for your trip at the best price. All you need is your sense of adventure, your sunscreen, and your friendliest smile. Get ready to be captivated by the Spice Isle's charm. Book a rental car today to start your Grenadian escapade.
