Fun in High Places with Rainforest Adventures

Photos courtesy Rainforest Adventures 

Contributor Sue Kelly gives the lowdown on one of the top things to do in Sint Maarten: Rainforest Adventures

Undoubtedly one of the top things to do in St Maarten (and St Martin), Rainforest Adventures provides an excellent way to orientate yourself to the incomparable views and specific locations of key places on the island. Even if you’re a veteran visitor to the island, the 360-degree vistas at the top of Green Mountain will astound you.

Rainforest Adventures is located just outside Philipsburg on the historical Emilio Wilson Plantation Estate. Open seven days a week year-round, there are three options to enjoy in this adventure, and all are attained by riding up the Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlift.
The ascent on the chairlift is as gentle and tranquil as the lush landscape of towering ancient oaks, palm, and sandbox trees unfold below. The lift spans a total of 2,997 ft, and is certainly a highlight of a visit to the Rainforest Adventures attraction.

What to Expect at Rainforest Adventures

There is no specific order to do the rides, it is entirely up to you. Just ride back up the chairlift after each option is completed. And remember, don’t be intimidated! Rainforest Adventures has been accredited and certified by industrial standard organizations, so safety is their #1 priority.

 The Schooner Ride is the first stop up the chairlift, where you’ll surf down the mountain in an inner tube through the curves and straightaways of a specially designed track.  Although folks may think this is the easiest ride, it’s been found by some to be scarier than the big zipline.

Next up is the Sentry Hill Zipline, the second stop up the mountain. This thrilling adventure consists of a circuit of four short, separate ziplines from one platform to another. Once you are harnessed and buckled, you’ll be accompanied by two trained staff members to ensure your safety and full enjoyment.

Finally, the Flying Dutchman is the apex and main attraction at Rainforest Adventures. Marketed as the steepest zip line in the world, guests experience the thrill of a lifetime harnessed in a chair and travelling down the mountain on a flight line dropping 1050 ft from an elevation of over 2800 ft.

Visit the Bar and Restaurant

Before taking the plunge, enjoy a beverage at the well-stocked bar while strolling about the summit and viewing the distant islands of Anguilla, St Kitts, Nevis, and Saba.

Rainforest Adventures also includes the Emilio Wilson Museum and Emilio’s Restaurant. Dine with history in the quaint stone eatery. Their lunch menu includes Calypso grilled chicken salad, Caribbean saltfish croquettes, as well as bacon-wrapped hot dogs and French fries. Closed Mondays.

To learn more, visit their website at www.rainforestadventure.com.

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Contributor Sue Kelly is a frequent visitor to the island paradise of St Martin and St Maarten. She’s also a radio host, educator and author of Still Sexy After Sixty (www.stillsexyafter60.com)