Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
About
Home to orchids (in bloom late May through June) and elusive Blue Iguanas as well as parrots and other birds.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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See what travelers are saying
- Kimberly BGrove City, Ohio7,475 contributionsBeautiful gardens with flowers and blue iguanas roaming aroundThis place is gorgeous and huge! They have different areas to visit and a lot of flowers. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and could have spent even more time if it wasn't so hot that day. The flowers are gorgeous and all areas are nicely landscaped. We seen a lot of blue iguana's roaming the grounds and then there is an entire area dedicated to the blue iguana's and it is huge! We seen multiple Cayman Parrots flying around in the trees out in the open and so neat to see them in a natural habitat. There's an area you can take a mile walk in (Woodland trails) and it circles around to the iguana area (or you could always take a shortcut there and not do the walk). It was very peaceful. There's a large kids play area and it also has water fountains for them to cool off in. They have also moved the concrete Davinoff's sculptures to this park too and makes for a good picture opportunity. The Rotary Schoolhouse was opened in 2019 by Prince Charles of Whales and serves as a nature education area and botanical science. The Heritage area had houses from the 20th century that have been restored and was owned by an East End settler. It gives a look at how they used to live. It's defiantly a do-no miss when in Grand Cayman if you are looking at a peaceful stroll type of area with a lot of beautiful flowers and animals to see.Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 21, 2023
- Steven CSeminole, Florida1,105 contributionsGOOD WAY TO SPEND A FEW HOURSMy wife and I visited this park during a recent stay on Grand Cayman. They have a large variety of plants and the blue iguana preservation area is very interesting. You can pay to have a tour of the location or just roam about as we did. They also have areas where your kids can run around and play to burn off any excess energy or boredom. The only negative for us would be that many of the plants weren't labeled or the signage was in a state of disrepair to make it unreadable. (It is a large place so it would be impossible to label everything but better overall coverage of the signage would be good.) The staff were all very friendly and open to answering any questions we had. We would recommend this place as somewhere to spend a few relaxing hours walking about.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 27, 2023
- MiMellieMichigan21 contributionsOutstanding!Absolutely beautiful! We spent a few hours there on a Sunday afternoon and it wasn’t busy. The grounds are beautifully maintained; seeing the blue iguanas and parrots were definitely a highlight. The staff was very friendly and took the time to point out highlights on a map; the gentleman we were chatting with was outstanding and very informative!Visited November 2023Traveled with friendsWritten November 29, 2023
- aschoonoDeWitt, Michigan720 contributionsBeautiful Gardens with Iguanas as a BonusMy family with a 4 and 7 year old came to the botanical gardens. It was our second visit. We were disappointed because the blue iguana sanctuary was closed. The kids loved this the last time. Just make sure it is open when you go. The gardens are beautiful. We still did see lots of blue iguanas and a few green parrots. The kids loved the playground area.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten January 2, 2024
- Thomas NVenice, Italy308 contributionsExcellent Botanical Garden! Definitely check this out!We were blown away by how great this park was. Great for adults and kids. There’s a whole section for kids. A playground and a splash pad. There are several sections in this park. Our favorite was the “Color Garden”. We saw several blue iguanas wandering free in the park, before we even got to the Iguana Sanctuary, where they have tons of them housed. We’ve been to many Botanical Gardens in many countries, and this one was one of the very best we’ve seen. Gift shop also had lots of great items at shockingly reasonable prices.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 29, 2024
- natster6Peru, Illinois75 contributionsWish we had the grandkids with us!Lovely nature stroll through different areas. Beautiful tropical plants and flowers. We saw iguanas, rabbits, turtles, birds, a hermit crab. There is a fantastic children's garden with a splash pad, climbing sets, concrete statues of critters... We were really wishing we had our grandkids with us! Nice shaded patio area where we were able to eat our picnic lunch. Gift shop. We combined this with a stop at Collier's Beach on the far east end in order to check out that area. Could also combine with a tour at the Crystal Caves for a full day in the same general area... Or drive to Starfish Point.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 15, 2024
- Kathy49NJ138 contributionsGreat place for a peaceful stroll!So beautiful! And yes, the iguanas are really blue. (Okay, not bright blue like the statue on the sign, but definitely blue) I like how this garden had special areas, like the color gardens and the orchid walk. Signage on plants was good, explaining about the various trees and gardens. I wish I'd had time for a more leisurely visit. I could easily have spent 2 hours there, but I went as part of a tour and felt rushed. My advice is do this on your own and take as long as you like. Sit by the pond and watch for waterbirds. Stroll the paths and enjoy being out in a natural environment.Visited February 2024Traveled soloWritten February 29, 2024
- Lstuckmo114 contributionsLoved the blue iguanas!Going there during new years it was a fun family activity. It was close to where we stayed in Bodden Town and spent about 1-1.5 hours there. We saw wild iguanas hanging out and in the sanctuary. We also loved the traditional house. Very cool activity while in Grand Cayman.Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 9, 2024
- Jason MAustin, Texas93 contributionsBlue IguanasWe went to this park to visit the blue iguanas. We had a tour with Hal which was fantastic! Extremely knowledgeable about the history, plants, and animals. There are a large number of beautiful plants and you will see several blue iguanas roaming the grounds in addition the the ones present in the conservation center. The only thing to keep in mind is the park is about 45 minutes from seven mile beach so you need a rental car or arrange for a taxi to take you and pick you up before hand and that can be a bit expensive.Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 13, 2024
- Jeffbird22 contributionsCall ahead and schedule with Hal!When we arrived they asked if we’d like a guided tour. Knowing this was always the best way to experience anything we said yes. After about an immersive hour with our guide Hal, I asked my wife how much did this cost? She didn’t know. Hal is a life long resident of the island. He imparted wisdom from his birth mother and his adoptive mother and from his sixty odd years of living here. Keen insights into a lifestyle we couldn’t imagine. Then onto two more hours of the flora. A true expert on seemingly everything growing in the park. Amazing experience. No amount of money could buy you three hours with Hal! In the end the added fee was $6.50 per. Best day we had on the Cayman. (Rent a car to get there, $80.00 US from Andy’s)Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 20, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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travelforfun90
Columbus, OH100 contributions
Mar 2020
We came here on our trip to Cayman on a day that was quite windy and with intermittent showers so it was great to be inland instead of trying water activities. The garden is organized around different colored plants a green area, blue area, pink area, yellow area, etc. We loved seeing the different types of plants. We spotted several blue iguanas here (just out in the wild no guarantees) and also a pair of parrots (wild) and a snake. Be warned the tea house is a pagoda NOT a place to get food. Other than a few snacks in the gift shop they do not have a restaurant or cafe here. The signage to get there is limited so use your gps and pay attention if driving yourself.
Written March 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jan G
Toronto, Canada77 contributions
Jan 2020
As part of our cruise tour we were to visit the Crystal Caves but due some safety concerns after the Earthquake our tour ended up at the Queen Elizabeth 11 Botanic Park. Wow - what a lovely place to visit and totally unexpected. I loved their garden rooms all different colours - Red, white, yellow etc, There are 65 acres to enjoy and our guide was thorough in the time allocated to show us his lovely place. We even saw Tootsie - the Blue Iguana.
If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary to do on this island I recommend adding this place to your list you will not be disappointed
If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary to do on this island I recommend adding this place to your list you will not be disappointed
Written February 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Calgarysuntraveller
Calgary, Canada60 contributions
Oct 2022
My wife and I are nature lovers and after reading about the Botanical Park we decided to go see it after we finished our morning dives. After going through it we feel that it is something you simply have to see when in the Glrand Caymans. Grand Cayman is much more than its scuba diving, the Botanica Park proves it.
We did the self guided walking tour but after running into the head guide by happenstance, we wish we had taken the guided tour instead. He was a wealth of information and went out of his way to answer all of our questions, even though he was off duty and on his way home when we ran into him.
Allow at least two hours for the self tour, especially if you are going to visit the blue iguana conservation area. Plan ahead as this conservation area closes at 2pm each day that it is open. It was nice to see the passion of the park wardens carryingfor all of their charges
We really enjoyed the Orchid Boardwalk, the Floral Color Garden, the Heritage Garden and Gazebo area.
The only disappointment for us was that the advertised brochures stated one admission fee and the actual admission fee was double that. At the end of our visit we both agreed it was still very worth the money.
We did the self guided walking tour but after running into the head guide by happenstance, we wish we had taken the guided tour instead. He was a wealth of information and went out of his way to answer all of our questions, even though he was off duty and on his way home when we ran into him.
Allow at least two hours for the self tour, especially if you are going to visit the blue iguana conservation area. Plan ahead as this conservation area closes at 2pm each day that it is open. It was nice to see the passion of the park wardens carryingfor all of their charges
We really enjoyed the Orchid Boardwalk, the Floral Color Garden, the Heritage Garden and Gazebo area.
The only disappointment for us was that the advertised brochures stated one admission fee and the actual admission fee was double that. At the end of our visit we both agreed it was still very worth the money.
Written October 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
c m
2 contributions
Jan 2020
We have taken many tours of nature areas around the world, and this was the best of all. First, Hal led us on a tour of the gardens and his knowledge and presentation was great. The variety and colors of the plants, flowers and trees was awesome. Hal took the time to break off leaves to smell the plants, and also put flowers in my wifes hair, and make her a bracelet out of a fuzzy growth.
Then, Cass took us around the iguanas. WOW! We saw at least 40 Blue Iguana's, old and young. They all had names and personalities, and Cass knew a lot about them.
Next year, we will come back and do this again.
Then, Cass took us around the iguanas. WOW! We saw at least 40 Blue Iguana's, old and young. They all had names and personalities, and Cass knew a lot about them.
Next year, we will come back and do this again.
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelly V
Charlton, NY447 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We visited here New Years Day, not thinking to really see a Blue Iguana, but we wanted to get out of the sun. What a great experience. It was hot, but the trail was shaded by trees, we arrived at 10:00am, and stayed for about an hour and a half. I would strongly suggest if you have kids to start on the trail to the left, vs the right, as that is the more “boring” section, but it does have a lot of vegetation and a view of the Iguana Conservatory, where we were able to see an Iguana in captivity. We then ventured through the rest of the trail which is about a mile long. Along this path we did not see any wild Iguana’s but as soon as we hit the large pond we saw our first large Blue Iguana basking in the sun. What a wonderful surprise, Today we were able to see 5 wild Iguana’s all different colors. I bought the Blue Iguana book to be more educated about the efforts to save the Iguana from extinction. $10 for an adult, and less for kids. Well worth the price. The flowers closer to the visitor center were beautiful, there are wild parrots flying around as well as this little yellow and black bird that feeds on the nectar. What a great day. We also saw a grass snake. A great time to get out of the sun, and support the efforts to save the Blue Iguana.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NahanniRafter
Oak Harbor, WA492 contributions
Feb 2020
If you love flowers, you simply must visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park! As a bonus, there is a geo-cache there also.
We got there by using Grand Cayman's public bus. It is something like a taxi, in that the 9-passenger vans (can drop down seats for more people) drop you off, and pick you up.
One can take a guided tour, or go on one's own. We went on our own, and so could take as long as we wanted, except we did need to allow time to get back to the cruise ship! It is possible to go there as part of a ship shore excursion but I am sure the time there is only an hour. Do yourself a favor, and visit the gardens independently.
We were given a map showing the several gardens. We visited all of them. Our favorite was probably the Colour Garden, though all were hugely enjoyable. The Orchid Garden/boardwalk had almost no flowers blooming in February, but was still pleasant walking and viewing.
The Colour Garden definitely lives up to its name! There were so many flowers, so many different shades of green in leaves.
We got to see both common (invasive) green iguanas up close that now have a bounty on them apparently, and the rare native blue iguanas.
.
We did a little shopping in the very nice gift shop/visitor center.
Staff called the public bus and we were soon on our way back to Georgetown and the ship
This is definitely a Must-See for flower lovers and those wishing to see iguanas.
We got there by using Grand Cayman's public bus. It is something like a taxi, in that the 9-passenger vans (can drop down seats for more people) drop you off, and pick you up.
One can take a guided tour, or go on one's own. We went on our own, and so could take as long as we wanted, except we did need to allow time to get back to the cruise ship! It is possible to go there as part of a ship shore excursion but I am sure the time there is only an hour. Do yourself a favor, and visit the gardens independently.
We were given a map showing the several gardens. We visited all of them. Our favorite was probably the Colour Garden, though all were hugely enjoyable. The Orchid Garden/boardwalk had almost no flowers blooming in February, but was still pleasant walking and viewing.
The Colour Garden definitely lives up to its name! There were so many flowers, so many different shades of green in leaves.
We got to see both common (invasive) green iguanas up close that now have a bounty on them apparently, and the rare native blue iguanas.
.
We did a little shopping in the very nice gift shop/visitor center.
Staff called the public bus and we were soon on our way back to Georgetown and the ship
This is definitely a Must-See for flower lovers and those wishing to see iguanas.
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kerry W
Marathon, WI22 contributions
Jan 2020
Our kids were a bit skeptical about going. Plants are boring, right?
Eight of us went - and eight of us enjoyed it! The plants, trees, flowers, etc. were interesting and labeled so we all learned something. We saw 3 endangered blue iguanas, which was a highlight! There were numerous photo ops along the paths and a very nice gift shop where we found good values in souvenirs. Lastly, you can't beat the value we got for the $10.00 admission.
Eight of us went - and eight of us enjoyed it! The plants, trees, flowers, etc. were interesting and labeled so we all learned something. We saw 3 endangered blue iguanas, which was a highlight! There were numerous photo ops along the paths and a very nice gift shop where we found good values in souvenirs. Lastly, you can't beat the value we got for the $10.00 admission.
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marilyn G
Wilmington, NC30 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
We enjoyed visiting this botanic park. It wasn't very crowded that morning and we were lucky to be able to have a guided tour riding in a cart since we have knee problems and it was a very hot day. They have a children's area where they can play. I walked the walkway through the Xeriphytic Garden as the cart cannot go through there; I saw lots of orchids and other plants growing on the trees. The Heritage Garden with a Caymanian House showing how life was at the turn of the century was interesting. The blue iguanas were around in several places but the Iguana Habitat was closed; one very big one was by the entrance to the gift shop. Snacks and souvenirs were reasonably priced in their gift shop; there is no cafe. They have nice air conditioned restrooms. There are mosquitoes so wear bug repellent, but they did have some outside the gift shop you could use if you forget it. I love looking at plants so I did enjoy my visit here
Written July 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lynn and Glenn
Fort Lauderdale, FL23 contributions
Mar 2023
We spent several hours visiting the Queen Elizabeth Botanic Garden on Grand Cayman Island. For those who love birds, flowers and beautiful gardens this is a perfect stop. It is very flat and trails are well marked and easy to navigate. The cost to enter the park is very reasonable and traveling to and from the park is a breeze.
As a birdwatcher I was especially pleased with our guide, Stuart Mailer (stuartrmailer@gmail.com). He is a 40+ year resident of the Island and intimately familiar with both the flora and fauna of this park. his knowledge and insights were most valuable in making the trip one of our more enjoyable excursions.
If you are looking for something special and different at a very reasonable cost this is a great trip to consider. We saw lots of families and the birds were very cooperative for all who are interested.
As a birdwatcher I was especially pleased with our guide, Stuart Mailer (stuartrmailer@gmail.com). He is a 40+ year resident of the Island and intimately familiar with both the flora and fauna of this park. his knowledge and insights were most valuable in making the trip one of our more enjoyable excursions.
If you are looking for something special and different at a very reasonable cost this is a great trip to consider. We saw lots of families and the birds were very cooperative for all who are interested.
Written March 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
i_am_dad
Kincardine, Canada20 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We signed up for the 10 am tour, which ended up being with only one other couple. Our tour guide, Cass, was very knowledgeable and introduced us to dozens of blue iguanas. The surrounding gardens were excellent and had no entry fee. Overall, good value for money.
Written January 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I understand I can take a public bus to the park from my hotel but what about the return trip? It sounds like I would have to take a taxi, what would be the approximate cost of that be?
Written November 21, 2019
Very easy to do. Public bus drops you off and ladies in shop called bus to pick us up for return trip.
Written December 21, 2019
How far is this from where the ships come in? how long did it take you to get there?
Written January 4, 2019
It's quite far. I don't think many cruise shippers visit it because they often have to be back on the ship by the early afternoon.
That said, in a car I would leave about 40-50 minutes to get from the cruise terminal to the park (to account for traffic and visiting for the first time).
Written January 4, 2019
Yes there is a fee. They also seem to have a discounted fee, if you buy the Botanic Park with Pedros´Castle together. This gives a substantial saving and both are recommended to visit if you want to learn a bit about the islands history and culture..
Written January 2, 2018
Hi, I've heard that the park is not really wheelchair accessible due to deep gravel and exposed tree roots. We are visiting in June and my partner, who will be having a hip replacement while in Grand Cayman, would really love to visit the park.
Written May 13, 2017
CI National Attractions Authority
George Town, Grand Cayman
Hello! Yes, we have golf trolleys at the Park that can take you around. Be sure to book in a guided tour in advance and let us know that you will be needing assistance so that we can be prepared for you. Remember that guided tours are currently only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2PM.
Written May 17, 2017
Transportation to and from seven mile beach hotels
How much is the charge to visit the Botanical Garden
Written October 12, 2016
CI National Attractions Authority
George Town, Grand Cayman
You can take the Public Bus from Seven Mile Beach to the George Town Bus Depot (lots of Public Buses pass Seven Mile Beach, approx every 10mins).
At the George Town Bus Depot, hop on the East End Bus to the Botanic Park. It will cost approx $3 CI per person per bus ride (so approx $12 CI per person round trip on the Public Bus).
Admission to the Botanic Park is $10 CI for Self Guided, and $15 CI for Guided Tours. Guided Tours are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2PM.
You can always call ahead of time and book a tour with Hal, if he is available. Or call the Tourism Attraction Board office, if you cannot get through to the Botanic Park.
You should be all set!
Just pack some water, relax, and enjoy the beauty and nature that abounds in the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park :)
Written October 13, 2016
We are coming on a cruise ship (Liberty of the Seas) on June 15 and would love to visit the Botanic Park. How is the best way to get there? Is it far from the pier? Directions?
Written May 26, 2016
It would probably take at least an hour, as it took almost that long coming from our hotel on Seven Mile Beach. There is often traffic at the port when ships come in, so make sure to account for that. I would suggest using the app Waze for accurate directions that will recalculate according to traffic conditions!
Written June 5, 2016
Do you have any tours that will meet cruise passengers at the pier and return after the excursion? We would really love to visit your gardens. Thank you.
Written January 5, 2016
Melissa78621
Elgin, Texas
We walked about a block over from the pier and got on a local bus (mini van) that took us to the Botanic Park. It made several stops along the way with locals getting on and off.
We spoke to the Botanic Park staff who called us a taxi for our way back to get on the ship with plenty of time to spare.
Written March 31, 2016
We were there two weeks ago. We bought a stuffed animal blue iguana for my granddaughter. She took it to school and it is missing. She is devastated with the loss. (I do not know why she got so attached to it) Kindly let me know how I can purchase another and have it shipped to her here in California. It would make a liottle 4 year old girl very happy. The iguana was approximately 12" -14" inches long. Let me know the cost and shipping and I will call you (Please provide phone number) and give you address and credit card. Thanking you in advance for your assistance and response to this request. This site will not let meleave an email. With your phone number I will call you.
Respectfully,
Robert Bitter
Written November 6, 2015
Robert, did you ever get your granddaughter's blue iguana replaced? I am going to the gardens tomorrow and would be willing to look for a replacement for her. Helen
Written February 13, 2016
Is it a "flour sack" or "flower sack" tree?
Written January 29, 2015
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