Caribbean · Leeward Islands
the lively elder sibling
Bustling Basseterre, a scenic railway through old sugar fields, a UNESCO fortress & rainforest hikes that end in waterfalls. The larger of the twin islands brings vibrant energy with an easy smile, & is the cradle of the British & French Caribbean.
Capital
Basseterre
Highest peak
3,792 ft
Independent
1983
Nickname
Mother Colony
The island at a glance
Fast facts
Area
68 sq mi (176 km²)
Capital
Basseterre
Highest point
Mt Liamuiga · 3,792 ft
Population
38,138 (2022 census)
Independence
19 September 1983
Cruise port
Port Zante, Basseterre
National sport
Cricket
Nickname
Mother Colony of the West Indies
National flower
Poinciana
Culture & heritage
Kittitian life blends African, British, French & Caribbean threads. The biggest celebration is Sugar Mas, the National Carnival, which runs from late December into the new year with calypso, soca, J'ouvert & masquerade troupes. In summer the St. Kitts Music Festival draws international artists to Warner Park.
Here, locals take the art of enjoying life seriously: they call it limin': the sun on your skin, a midday swim, a hammock slung between two palms, or an evening bouncing between beach bars on De Strip with a new friend. The flavours match the mood, from goat water stew & stewed saltfish to coconut dumplings & sweet tree-ripened mangoes.
The island's national dish is stewed saltfish with spicy plantains, coconut dumplings & seasoned breadfruit. English is the official language, the East Caribbean dollar is the currency, & a friendly "good morning" opens every door.
"Limin': the local art of doing nothing, beautifully."
Don't miss
What to see
From a cliff-top fortress to golden-hour sails, the experiences that define a St. Kitts escape.
Postcards
Captured Across the Federation
Every shot below is the actual St. Kitts & Nevis. Drag, scroll or tab through.
Swipe to see more photos
Keep exploring