Grenada was formed form volcanic eruptions
many years ago. In fact, most of the Windward
Islands are volcanic. This means that
there are hills and valleys and beautiful rainforests. Grenada has protected one area of the rain
forest and has named it Grand Etang Forest Reserve. The name for this reserve is from the French
words “large pond”. At 1740 ft above sea level, in the middle of the
reserve, is a large fresh water lake in a crater from
the volcano that was formed millions of years ago. The lake is home to many species of guppies
and tilapia. You cannot swim in the lake
but there are hikes that surround it.
The reserve is home to a variety of animal
species including the mona monkey, opossum, mongoose, frogs, iguanas, lizards
and tree boa snakes. When you enter the
reserve and start to climb to the top of the mountain, the air quality changes
and humidity drops. It is very evident
that you have entered a different eco system.
The Seven Sisters Waterfall is one of many
waterfalls on the island. This is one of
the more popular hikes because it is a medium challenge, fairly short in
distance, and has a great reward at the end - the waterfall! As we entered the hike, we were fortunate to
have a guide with us who stopped to explain various plants including flowers,
herbs, and fruit trees. I commented that
there is no way anyone could go hungry in Grenada, since almost every tree or
plant has a food source or medicinal purpose.
When you hike, you should use all your senses to enjoy the
experience. Our guide reminded us that a
hike in the forest is a spiritual walk and must be respected as such. So he encouraged us to look above and around,
stop and smell and listen to the forest, and touch and taste the plants and
fruits.
The waterfall was a joy to see
as we swam, and walked in the cool fresh water.
We had a lunch by the waterfall, chatted and took photos. A family was at another part of the waterfall
cooking “oil down” (recipe for oil down) over an open fire in a huge pot. Everyone was enjoying the day.
I didn’t get to see any animals, and I
asked specifically about the tree boas.
Our guide said it would be best to find the boas at night since they are
lazy and sleep most of the day in the treetops.
He suggested that I return in the evening with a flashlight and look for
their iridescent eyes. Maybe I’ll do this
another time.
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