Some travel experiences make you pause, and some make you feel alive. My trip to Royal Mount Carmel Waterfall in Grenada was both. I didn’t just visit a waterfall, I slid down smooth natural rock slides, stood under crashing water until I couldn’t see, and wandered through some of the greenest, most vibrant sceneries I’ve ever laid eyes on!
Located just outside Grenville in St. Andrew Parish, this hidden treasure (also known as Marquis Falls) is Grenada’s tallest waterfall, and one of its best-kept secrets. From the thrill of the water slide to the peace of sitting quietly under the trees, this place had everything I love about travel. If you're looking for something unforgettable, keep reading.
Need to Know (Quick Facts)
| 📍 Location | St. Andrew Parish, near Grenville |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee | 5 EC (when the property owners are present) |
| Time to Visit | Jan–May (dry season), early mornings preferred |
| Hike Difficulty | 10 minutes, Easy (muddy in rainy season) |
| Facilities | None—pack light and bring everything you need |
Trip Highlights:
- Tallest waterfall in Grenada (70 ft drop)
- Natural water slides carved into the rock
- Bright jungle flowers and vibrant greenery
- Chance to sit under the falls
- Off-the-beaten-path but included in local tours
- Setting the Scene: Grenada’s Tallest Waterfall
At 70 feet tall, Royal Mount Carmel is a towering curtain of fresh mountain water spilling into a natural pool. But the real magic is everything around it, towering green canopies, tropical flowers so bright they look painted, and the echo of rushing water that draws you in from the moment you hear it.
The waterfall isn’t overly commercialized, and that’s what makes it so special. There are no crowded tour groups or paved walkways here, just nature doing what it does best. And yet, it’s welcoming in its own rugged way, with spots to sit, paths to explore, and plenty of hidden views if you take the time to look around.
Getting There: What to Know Before You Go
Mount Carmel Waterfall is about a 45-minute drive from St. George’s, and it’s a journey through Grenada’s lush countryside filled with roadside fruit stands, mountain views, and colorfully painted homes.
We parked along a quiet street just outside the trail and asked a local for help (everyone was incredibly friendly). The entrance was easy to miss at first, it’s tucked between two houses, the left one has green paint on the lower half. The sign says “Mt. Carmel Falls,” but it looks just like a regular street sign, so keep your eyes open!
Entrance Fee: The waterfalls are located on private property and it costs 5 EC (around $2 USD) to visit, but this fee is only collected when the local property owners are present. If they’re not around, entry is free, but if they are, please support them!
Once you find the entrance, you’ll head down a set of steps and onto a shaded path through the trees. The path is clearly marked so there is no need for a tour guide! Along the way, there’s a simple bench and table setup where local security often hang out. This is also where the trail splits:
Left/ straight leads you directly to the waterfall.
The right takes you on a short trail to the natural water slides. This one may be tricky to get to at first because you have to cross the water to the trail that takes you down to the slides, and it's not as easily noticeable at first.
Trail Tips: The walk to the waterfall takes about 10-15 minutes. It’s not hard, but the terrain can be muddy and uneven. I wore sneakers and was glad I did, especially near the water.
What to Expect as a First-Time Visitor
First-timers should know: there are no lockers, snack bars, or signs beyond the initial entrance. This is raw nature. But that’s what makes it unforgettable. If you’re not a strong swimmer, stay near the edges. And don’t be afraid to ask locals for help, they are some of the friendliest people you will meet!
The Waterfall Experience: Power, Beauty, and Stillness
The first time I saw it, I literally just stopped. The waterfall was cascading down into a large pool, framed by bright green leaves and wildflowers in every direction. It felt untouched, like a hidden temple in the forest. You could sit on the rocks opposite the falls and just be.
Of course, I couldn’t resist the pull. I climbed across the rocks and made my way underneath the falls, and it was intense. The water hit hard and fast, and I reached a point where I couldn’t see because the stream was so powerful. It was humbling and beautiful all at once.
There’s also a viewpoint to the left, just a short climb up. It gives you an elevated angle of the falls, perfect for photos or just taking in the scene from a fresh perspective.
The Natural Water Slides: Nature’s Playground
What really took this adventure to the next level? The natural water slides!
About a 10-minute walk from the waterfall, the trail leads to a stretch of smooth rock where water has carved out the perfect slide. When we arrived, a group of local men were already there, running from the top and launching themselves down! It was wild in the best way.
My friend Lizzie and I looked at each other and went for it. The water carried us down the rocks like a natural waterslide, fast and fun and a little chaotic. Lizzie even went twice!
At the bottom, you can either:
- Climb up using the carved-out sections in the rock wall, or
- Backtrack using the same trail you walked to get to the bottom to a less visible side path that leads to the middle of the slide area if you’d rather not climb. That’s what Lizzie did, while I climbed up the rock wall, and we met in the middle.
It was spontaneous, hilarious, and hands-down one of the most fun things I’ve done in Grenada.
When to Visit: Timing and Crowds
The best time to visit Mount Carmel Waterfall is during Grenada’s dry season, January through May, when weather conditions are ideal and trails are less muddy. But beyond the weather, your experience will really depend on timing.
I’ve actually been here twice in the last few weeks. The first time, it was nearly empty, just our group and two other people. It felt private and peaceful, like a hidden oasis. The second time, I brought my husband, and a tour group showed up while we were swimming, making it feel a bit more lively and crowded.
If you're hoping for that quiet, tranquil moment under the falls, visit early in the morning and try to avoid weekends. While Mount Carmel isn’t as busy as some other island attractions, it’s becoming more popular, especially since many local tour guides include it in their excursions now.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit + towel
- Water shoes or sneakers with grip
- Waterproof phone case or camera
- Bug spray & sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle + snacks
- Dry bag for your gear
Nearby Spots to Explore
Why stop at one adventure? If you’re already in the area:
- Belmont Estate (25 min away): A working cocoa estate with Grenadian food, chocolate tours, and peaceful garden vibes.
- Grand Etang National Park (25 min away): Great for more hiking, spotting monkeys, and soaking in panoramic views from the crater lake.
- Grenville Market: Colorful and lively, great for picking up fruits, spices, and crafts from local vendors.
Would I Go Again?
Absolutely! I’ve already gone twice, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go again. Whether it’s your first time in Grenada or your fifth, Mount Carmel Waterfall is one of those places that feels refreshing every time. It’s a mix of awe, a little adventure, and the kind of stillness that stays with you long after you leave.
Plan Your Visit
- Rental Cars: Y&R Grenada Car Rental are located at the airport and have well-priced vehicles available.
- Bus: Head to the bus terminal in St. George's and ride to St. Andrews from there.
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