Grand Étang Lake Grenada
Serene crater lake in a lush rainforest, famous for its mist, hiking trails, and friendly Mona monkeys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for monkeys
Grand Étang Lake Grenada
Best Time
Best chance for monkeys
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene crater lake in a lush rainforest, famous for its mist, hiking trails, and friendly Mona monkeys.
"The wild monkeys that come down to greet you and accept gifts of fruits from your hands directly is a unique experience."
🐒 Feed the Monkeys (Responsibly!)
Bring fruit like bananas or apples to feed the Mona monkeys. They are quite accustomed to visitors!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crater Lake
Grand Étang National Park
A serene, mist-shrouded crater lake offering stunning, verdant views. A true natural wonder.
Monkey Encounters
Near the Visitor Center
Friendly Mona monkeys often descend to greet visitors, accepting fruit. A unique and memorable interaction.
Shoreline Hiking Trails
Grand Étang National Park
Explore lush rainforest paths leading to waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna. Some trails can be muddy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Grand Étang Lake
Park Entry and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐒 Feed the Monkeys (Responsibly!)
Bring fruit like bananas or apples to feed the Mona monkeys. They are quite accustomed to visitors!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
💧 Be Prepared for Rain
The rainforest climate means sudden showers are common. Pack a light raincoat or umbrella.
🦟 Insect Repellent is Key
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent, especially on the trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐒 Feed the Monkeys (Responsibly!)
Bring fruit like bananas or apples to feed the Mona monkeys. They are quite accustomed to visitors!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
💧 Be Prepared for Rain
The rainforest climate means sudden showers are common. Pack a light raincoat or umbrella.
🦟 Insect Repellent is Key
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent, especially on the trails.
📸 Drone & Selfie Stick Friendly
Great photo opportunities! Consider bringing a drone for aerial shots or a selfie stick if solo.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Grand Étang Lake for its stunning natural beauty, especially the serene crater lake and the unique opportunity to interact with wild monkeys. The hiking trails offer a chance to immerse oneself in the lush rainforest, though some note the trails can be muddy. It's often considered a worthwhile stop on island tours.
"It costs EC$5.7 or $2 to enter the national park, which offers a few hiking trails and a beautiful lake. We started our visit at the Visitor Center to learn the history, then took the short trail that led to the lookout. Afterwards, we did an hour-long shoreline hike. Although it was muddy, it was pretty fun to see nature up close. The shoreline hike will take you to the lake, or you can take the shortcut and simply visit the lake from the park entrance. A guide wasn't necessary in our opinion."
Cindy W
"Simple to view a large lake - but not spectacular by any means. However, what is spectacular is the wild monkeys that come down to greet you and accept gifts of fruits from your hands directly. This part is a unique experience."
Amir Mohammed
"A great spot along the tour of Grenada. We didn’t get to see the monkeys but the view of the lake is spectacular. There’s also koi fish in the lake and trail heads that you can explore. It is a little cold as you’re up on a mountain but not ridiculously. Bring a drone if you have one and a selfie stick if you’re traveling solo."
shawn maile
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grand Étang Lake is located in the center of Grenada. The most common way to get there is by car or taxi from St. George's, which takes about 30-45 minutes. Many island tours include a stop here.
While local buses run on main roads, they may not go directly to the park entrance. Hiring a taxi or joining a guided tour is generally more convenient for reaching the lake.
Yes, you can drive to Grand Étang Lake. The roads are generally paved, but can be winding and narrow in places. Parking is available near the visitor center.
Many visitors opt for guided tours that include Grand Étang Lake as part of a larger island exploration. This allows for easy transportation and local insights.
Yes, car rentals are available on Grenada, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Be aware of driving on the left side of the road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entrance fee, typically around EC$5.75 or $2 USD, which grants access to the park and its main attractions.
The park is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully experience the natural beauty and wildlife.
Tickets are usually purchased upon arrival at the park entrance. Advance booking is not typically required unless part of a pre-arranged tour.
The entrance fee covers access to the park and its main trails. There are no additional charges for most of the popular hiking routes.
Yes, you can visit and explore the main lake area without a guide. However, a guide can offer valuable insights into the flora, fauna, and history of the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You're likely to see Mona monkeys, various tropical birds, and lizards. Keep an eye out for colorful orchids and other unique plant life.
Trails vary in difficulty. The short trail to the lookout is easy, while the shoreline hike can be muddy and moderately challenging.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential due to potentially muddy trails. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.
Basic facilities, including restrooms, are usually available near the Visitor Center. It's always a good idea to use them when you see them.
Absolutely! The lush scenery, mist-covered lake, and wildlife offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually small local vendors near the park entrance selling snacks and drinks. For a full meal, it's best to dine before or after your visit.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery, but remember to pack out all your trash.
Grenadian cuisine features fresh seafood, local fruits, and spices. Popular dishes include 'Oil Down' (a national dish), callaloo soup, and roti.
Most dining options are found in St. George's or along the coast. Consider stopping in the town of St. George's for a wider selection of restaurants.
Many local dishes can be adapted to be vegetarian or vegan, especially those featuring vegetables and legumes. It's always good to ask about ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft light and potential mist, while late afternoon provides warm, golden hour hues. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
The main viewpoint near the Visitor Center offers iconic shots of the lake. Trails also provide different perspectives of the surrounding rainforest.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules before flying. However, some visitors have successfully used drones.
The mist-shrouded lake, the vibrant green rainforest, Mona monkeys, tropical birds, and colorful orchids are prime subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to pack snacks and drinks, as food options are limited. The muddy trails can be part of the fun for adventurous kids, so waterproof shoes or old sneakers are a must. It's also a great opportunity to teach children about local wildlife and the importance of respecting nature.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
If you're an avid hiker, consider tackling the shoreline trail for a more challenging experience. Bringing a selfie stick can be helpful for capturing your solo adventures, and the park's scenic beauty provides ample opportunities for stunning photographs.
📸 Nature Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife photography. The changing light throughout the day, from the soft glow of dawn to the warm hues of sunset, offers diverse photographic opportunities. Don't forget a drone if you have one, as aerial shots of the lake and forest can be breathtaking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters at Grand Étang
Beyond the monkeys, the park is alive with the sounds and sights of tropical birds. Keep an eye out for colorful species flitting through the dense canopy. You might also spot various lizards basking in the sun on rocks or tree branches. The humid rainforest environment supports a rich ecosystem, offering constant opportunities for nature observation.
Pro Tip: Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon often increases your chances of spotting more active wildlife. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the avian inhabitants and be patient – nature reveals itself best when you're observant.
Hiking and Trails in the Park
These trails wind through the lush rainforest, allowing you to experience the dense vegetation, towering trees, and the sounds of nature up close. You might discover hidden waterfalls and a variety of orchids and other tropical plants along the way. The air is often cool and misty, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the park.
Important Note: While a guide isn't strictly necessary for the main trails, hiring one can enrich your hike with knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and history. If you're venturing on longer or less-traveled paths, it's always wise to inform someone of your plans and estimated return time.
The Significance of the Crater Lake
While the lake itself is a sight to behold, its ecological importance and the unique microclimate it supports are also significant. The area around the lake is a vital habitat for the diverse wildlife mentioned previously. The elevation at which the lake sits contributes to its cooler temperatures compared to the coastal areas of Grenada.
Traveler Insight: Many visitors describe the lake as 'spectacular' and a 'great spot' on island tours, emphasizing its natural beauty and the peaceful ambiance it offers. It's a place that invites quiet contemplation and appreciation for the raw power of nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit