Mount Obama: Antigua's Majestic Peak
Hike Antigua's highest peak, Mount Obama, for panoramic views, lush trails, and a touch of Caribbean history and culture.
Mount Obama, rising 1,319 feet (402 meters) above sea level, is the highest point on the island of Antigua. Located in the southwestern region within Mount Obama National Park, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island, the Caribbean Sea, and neighboring islands like Montserrat and St. Kitts on clear days. Originally named Boggy Peak, the mountain was renamed on August 4, 2009, to honor Barack Obama, the first African American president of the United States. This renaming reflects the island's appreciation of diversity, progress, and its ancestral links to the African diaspora. The area holds historical significance as a refuge for escaped African slaves during the 17th and 18th centuries. The hike to the summit is a rewarding experience, with trails catering to various fitness levels. The main trail is approximately 4 miles (6.6 km) round trip and is considered moderately challenging, with some steep sections. Hikers traverse through lush rainforest, encountering diverse flora and fauna, including vibrant hibiscus, fragrant frangipani, and native bird species like the Antiguan oriole and bananaquit. The summit is marked by telecommunications towers, and access to the very top may be restricted, requiring a key often held by local guides. At the base of the trail, a monument stands as a tribute to the renaming, providing a perfect photo opportunity. The surrounding area, known as the "Green Corridor," is ideal for picnics and relaxation, offering a serene escape into nature.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be steep and uneven in places.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can take 2-3 hours.
- Consider hiring a local guide who knows the trails and may have access to the locked summit area.
- Visit during the dry season (mid-December to mid-April) for the most comfortable hiking weather.
- Pack a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the summit.
A brief summary to Mount Obama
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Getting There
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Driving
From St. John's, drive south along Valley Road until you reach the village of Jennings. Continue through Jennings on Valley Road, and just as you exit the town, turn left at the first bus stop onto a dirt track. Follow this track for about a mile to a grassy parking area near the Mount Obama Monument Stone. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough road conditions. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Take a local bus from St. John's to Liberta (approx. EC$2). From Liberta, it's a walk to the trailhead. Be prepared for infrequent bus schedules and potential waits. Alternatively, from the bus stop in Jennings, a taxi to the trailhead will cost approximately EC$20-30.
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Walking
From the parking area near the Mount Obama Monument Stone, the trailhead is a short walk further along the dirt track. Follow the signs for the Mount Obama Hiking Trail. The initial path leads into the undergrowth and becomes a narrower trail. Continue until you reach a sign indicating the South Loop and Mount Obama Hiking Trail, keeping right towards the Mount Obama Hiking Trail.
